Campus Security Guards Denver | Your School’s Protection, Our #1 Priority
Protect your school or university with licensed and insured security guards.

In 2024, Denver schools reported approximately 144 high-level threats, including acts of violence, gang-related activities, and weapon possession among students.
Such threats create an atmosphere of fear — disrupting the peace for students, staff, and parents alike. Students struggle to focus on learning, parents constantly worry about their children’s safety, and staff members often feel uneasy remaining on campus.
​
For this reason, hiring trained campus security guards in Denver is important. In this post, we’ll share what campus security guards are, how they help, and the key steps to hiring one.
What Are Campus Security Guards in Schools?
Campus security guards are trained professionals responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment within schools and universities. Their duties include:
-
Monitoring entrances and exits
-
Patrolling the school premises
-
Assisting during emergencies (including fire drills and lockdowns)
-
Immediately responding to disturbances or threats
They also ensure students adhere to school policies and regulations — particularly, those related to behavior, safety, and security.
Note that campus security guards are not the same as campus police officers. Unlike campus police officers, campus security guards cannot make arrests or conduct investigations. They are only the first line of defense, focusing on prevention, observation, and quick response in case of an emergency.
Why Armed Security at Schools Is Important
In March 2023, a 17-year-old suspect, Austin Lyle, opened fire at East High School in Denver — injuring two school administrators. The shooting triggered widespread panic and left students, staff, and the broader Denver community shaken.
The situation could have escalated leading to an active shooter situation and potentially the death of many. This highlights why armed security at schools is important. Here is how it helps:
-
Armed guards are trained and equipped to respond to active threats, preventing or mitigating serious incidents before they escalate.
-
The presence of armed security acts as a powerful deterrent. It discourages potential intruders or criminals from targeting the school.
-
Armed guards provide critical security in high-risk situations, such as large gatherings, sports events, or controversial on-campus activities.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire Armed Guards at Schools?

A full-time armed officer typically costs $75000-$100,000 annually to a school. The average hourly rate for armed security guards ranges from $14 to $80 across the United States, depending on the region and guard’s qualifications.
The factors influencing this cost are:
-
Location
-
The number of guards required
-
Length of the contract
-
Guard qualifications
-
Scope of duties
Additional expenses may include training, security equipment, and overtime for extended shifts or special assignments. ​
How to Go About Hiring Campus Security Guards?

When hiring campus security guards, you want to conduct thorough research and clearly define your specific requirements. With so many security companies available for schools, the process can feel overwhelming and confusing. To make it easier, here’s a clear step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process successfully:
Step 1: Assess Your Security Needs
Evaluate the specific security risks at your school. Determine whether you need armed or unarmed guards, the number of security personnel required, and the level of training they should have.
Step 2: Set a Budget
Based on your needs, establish a realistic budget for hiring security. As discussed, armed guards can be costly, so it’s important to balance your security requirements with the available budget. Factor in any additional costs such as training, equipment, and overtime.
Step 3: Research Security Companies
Look for reputable security companies with experience working in educational environments. You want to go with well-known names like Bellator Defense so you get background-checked, professionally-trained guards.
Step 4: Check Qualifications and Experience
The security personnel should be fully licensed, properly trained, and experienced in dealing with situations specific to school environments.
Armed guards should have the appropriate certification and training to handle active threats, while unarmed security staff should be skilled in managing school-specific issues such as student conflicts.
Step 5: Review Contracts and Terms
Once you’ve settled for a security provider, review the contract. It should outline the number of guards, their roles, the duration of their service, and any additional responsibilities.
We recommend choosing a company that offers flexibility to adapt security arrangements as your school’s needs change. They should also actively seek your input through regular meetings and briefings to ensure their strategies align with your ongoing requirements.
Hire the Best Campus Security Guards With Bellator Defense
When it comes to protecting your school, you deserve a partner who guarantees a risk-free environment and understands the challenges of educational environments.
At Bellator Defense, we specialize in tailored security solutions designed to create a safe and supportive learning atmosphere. Here's what we offer:
-
Armed and unarmed security
-
Crowd control for large gatherings and events
-
Specialized security for events and vulnerable areas
-
Control over access to restricted areas
-
Support for enforcing protocols and managing breaches
-
Quick response to crisis (including first aid to the injured and orderly evacuations)
Unlike many other security companies for schools, we don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. That's because your security needs are as unique as your institution. Contact Bellator Defense today to discuss your security needs and take the first step to a safer campus.