Active Student Marshal Responsibilities: Ensuring Safety and Security

Introduction

In response to growing concerns about safety and security in educational institutions, many schools and colleges are implementing comprehensive safety programs. One such initiative is the establishment of active student marshal programs. These programs aim to enhance campus security and provide a rapid response in emergency situations. This article explores the responsibilities and expectations of active student marshals, drawing upon examples from Frisco Independent School District (ISD) and the University of Maryland (UMD), to provide a comprehensive overview of their roles and duties.

Frisco ISD School Marshal Program

Frisco ISD launched a School Marshal Program in 2025-26 at campuses as part of a multi-layered approach to safety and security, with the May 12, 2025 Board approval. The program is structured around two primary marshal roles: Lead Marshals and Marshals.

Lead Marshals

Lead Marshals are expected to possess significant experience in supervising, managing, or providing leadership to groups of commissioned peace officers. Preference is given to candidates with commissioned peace officer experience, ideally five years or more, and honorably retired commissioned peace officers.

Marshals

Marshals are required to have commissioned peace officer experience, again with a preference for five years or more. All marshals must complete an 80-hour training course conducted on law enforcement training grounds. This comprehensive course covers essential topics such as:

Physical security strategies
Methods for improving campus security
Use of force protocols
Active shooter response tactics
Weapon proficiency

Additionally, marshals must complete 16 hours of marshal recertification training every two years. They are also required to possess and maintain a Texas License to Carry and pass an L-3 psychological evaluation, which must be recertified every two years. The school marshal program is licensed and regulated through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), which is the same agency that licenses and regulates all police officers in the state.

Expectations of Frisco ISD School Marshals

School marshals are hired explicitly for school safety, and their sole role is armed intervention. Their responsibilities include:

Working from morning pickup through dismissal
Walking the campus (interior and exterior) to maintain a visible presence
Conducting additional exterior door checks throughout each day to ensure security
Wearing an approved uniform at all times to be easily identifiable
Being armed, upon TCOLE training, to respond to immediate threats

Frisco ISD maintains partnerships with local law enforcement to ensure a coordinated response in emergency situations.

Emergency Marshals

In addition to school marshals, Frisco ISD also utilizes Emergency Marshals. These are employees who volunteer to assist students, faculty, and staff during emergencies. They support Facilities Services and Risk Management and Safety Services by reporting conditions in a building that could present a hazard during an emergency. During an evacuation or shelter-in-place situation, emergency marshals assist building occupants by facilitating the evacuation or sheltering order. Marshals are familiar with the designated exits, safe lockdown locations, and assembly areas outside the building. While marshals serve in their role to assist others, all students, faculty, and staff should familiarize themselves with these types of locations before there is an emergency. Employees should identify who the emergency marshal is for the building or buildings they spend the most time in.

Collin College's Role in Marshal Training

Collin College stands out as one of just five marshal training sites in Texas, highlighting its commitment to enhancing safety and security through comprehensive training programs. Dr. Neil Matkin, Collin College district president, emphasized that commitment is evident in the training required. The training is conducted in accordance with the standards set by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). Andrew Hardin, Board of Trustees chair, echoed this sentiment. Donaldson noted the expertise of instructors Lt. Don Mewbourn and Sgt. College police chief, underscoring the high-quality training opportunities spearheaded by the college’s Law Enforcement personnel.

University of Maryland Senior Marshals

The University of Maryland (UMD) employs Senior Marshals, who are graduating seniors demonstrating high levels of scholarship, service to the campus community, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth. These marshals play a significant role in commencement ceremonies, working alongside faculty members to ensure the smooth and orderly procession of graduating students.

Read also: Enrichment and Engagement

Responsibilities and Selection Criteria

UMD Senior Marshals are selected based on their outstanding contributions to the university. Key attributes include:

Academic Excellence: Maintaining a high GPA and demonstrating a commitment to learning.
Service to the Campus Community: Actively participating in volunteer activities and contributing to the betterment of campus life.
Extracurricular Involvement: Engaging in various clubs, organizations, and activities that enrich the university experience.
Personal Growth: Demonstrating leadership skills, resilience, and a commitment to personal development.

Examples of UMD Senior Marshals

Several UMD Senior Marshals exemplify these qualities through their involvement in various activities and organizations.

Abigail Hardy: An anthropology major and member of the Monacan Indian Nation, Abigail served as the president of the Native and Indigenous Student Union and combined art and research to convey information through graphic recording.
Abigail Manga: An Information Systems major, Abigail served as the President of Senior Council, President of the National Association of Black Accountants, and Alumni & Member Engagement Chair of Omicron Delta Kappa.
Aditya Viswanath Viswanathan Ram: A Biochemistry and Neuroscience double major, Aditya was a research assistant, teaching assistant, and executive board member for the University Honors Student Board.
Alaya Chubb: A Bioengineering major, Alaya served as an Academic Peer Coach, volunteered as a mathematics and reading tutor, and served as the Fundraising Chair for the Charles R. Drew Pre-Health Society.
Allison (Hejia) Li: Pursuing degrees in Information Science and Criminology and Criminal Justice, Allison strived to foster a supportive community for first-generation college students and LGBTQ+ students, serving as the President of oSTEM.
Aneesah Lovejoy: A Criminology and Criminal Justice major, Aneesah served as a Team Lead Resident Assistant, a Federal Fellow in Homeland Security, and an intern with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Angelina Mussini: Graduating with a B.S. in Environmental Science & Policy, Angelina served as a teaching assistant, a representative to the Dean of Undergraduate Studies' Student Advisory Board, and a campaign coordinator for the Maryland Public Interest Research Group.
Anna Petersen: Graduating with degrees in Criminology & Criminal Justice and Psychology, Anna co-founded the Undergraduate Psychology Association and represented undergraduate students on university committees.
Arjun Rakheja: A Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics major, Arjun was the Secretary and Risk Management Officer for the Phi Delta Epsilon International Medical Fraternity and a Team Leader for Maryland Mentor Corp’s Maryland Math Program.
Ayeesha Fadlaoui: An Animal Science major and Music Performance minor, Ayeesha was part of the Honors Humanities program and involved in the figure skating club, the Dean's Student Advisory Council, and Omicron Delta Kappa.
Bella Rosner: Graduating with degrees in Psychology and Human Development, Bella completed a thesis exploring relational reasoning in young children and held leadership roles, including serving as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant and Peer Advisor.
Benjamin-Nicolas Enwesi: A Computer Science major, Benjamin-Nicolas held leadership roles including the President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Vice President of Kappa Alpha Psi, and Tech Lead for Hack4Impact.
Bridget Fannon: Graduating with degrees in Sociology and Family Science, Bridget served as President of the community service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega and was a graduate of the CIVICUS Living and Learning Program.
Brooke Ayers: A Geospatial Data Science and Anthropology double major, Brooke focused on the intersection of human and environmental interactions.
Bryant Rivera Cortez: Majoring in Middle School Math & Science Education, Bryant was a trouper on Gymkana, a TerpsEXCED mentor, a College Success Scholars Team Leader, University Senator, and undergraduate researcher for KidWind.
Caitriona Wright: A Biological Sciences major with a focus on Microbiology, Caitriona was deeply involved in the American Society for Microbiology chapter and served as a Resident Assistant.
Charvika Minna: A Neuroscience major, Charvika served as the President, Vice President, and SLAC Ambassador of OMSE’s Service Learning Certificate Program and Co-President and Treasurer of the Nu Rho Psi National Honor Society.
Comfort Oshagbemi: Majoring in Government & Politics, Comfort completed the Honors Humanities program and was an active member of Promoting Achievement and Diversity in Economics (PADE).
Ema Rajala: An Architecture major, Ema held leadership positions in Maryland Ghostlight Company and the Maryland Shakespeare Players.
Emily Berman: A Hearing and Speech Sciences major, Emily worked as a Program Assistant in Resident Life and served as a peer mentor in the Social Interaction Group Network for All (SIGNA).
Emily R. Condon: A journalism major, Emily served various academic and volunteer roles for Merrill College, including the 2022-2023 Dean Search Committee undergraduate representative and a peer mentor.

These examples highlight the diverse backgrounds and contributions of UMD Senior Marshals, demonstrating their commitment to academic excellence, community service, and personal growth.

Key Differences and Similarities

While the Frisco ISD and UMD marshal programs differ significantly in their focus and responsibilities, both share a common goal: to enhance safety and security within their respective educational environments. Frisco ISD's program is primarily concerned with providing armed intervention in emergency situations, while UMD's program focuses on recognizing and celebrating student achievement and facilitating commencement ceremonies.

Differences

Primary Focus: Frisco ISD focuses on safety and security through armed intervention; UMD focuses on academic achievement and ceremonial support.
Training Requirements: Frisco ISD requires extensive law enforcement training; UMD requires demonstrated leadership and academic excellence.
Role During Emergencies: Frisco ISD marshals are first responders; UMD marshals primarily assist during planned events.

Similarities

Enhancing Safety: Both programs contribute to a safer environment, whether through direct intervention or by promoting a sense of community and order.
Leadership and Responsibility: Both programs require individuals to demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to their respective roles.
Community Engagement: Both programs foster a sense of community engagement and shared responsibility for the well-being of the institution.

Best Practices for Active Student Marshal Programs

To ensure the effectiveness of active student marshal programs, several best practices should be followed:

Read also: The Power of Active Learning

Comprehensive Training: Provide thorough training that covers all aspects of the marshal's responsibilities, including emergency response, communication skills, and conflict resolution.
Clear Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of marshals to avoid confusion and ensure accountability.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Establish strong partnerships with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a coordinated response in emergency situations.
Psychological Evaluations: Conduct regular psychological evaluations to ensure that marshals are mentally and emotionally prepared for their roles.
Community Engagement: Engage the broader community in the program by providing information and opportunities for involvement.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly evaluate the program's effectiveness and make adjustments as needed to improve its performance.
Proper Vetting: Implement a rigorous vetting process for selecting marshals, ensuring they meet the necessary qualifications and possess the right temperament for the role.
Ongoing Support: Provide ongoing support and resources to marshals, including regular training updates, access to counseling services, and opportunities for peer support.
Transparency and Communication: Maintain transparency with the community regarding the program's goals, activities, and outcomes, and ensure open communication channels for feedback and concerns.

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