Gov. Abbott names new head of school security at TEA

The title came about after the May 24 shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. According to the governor’s office, Scott will serve as a “recognized expert on school safety and public safety issues and a resource for school districts and the legislature.” He will also work to ensure schools comply with school safety guidelines enacted by the Texas Legislature.

“Protecting children in Texas and making our schools safer for all is our top priority, and John Scott is uniquely qualified to lead our efforts to keep their safe in Texas schools,” Gov. Abbott said. “Chief Scott’s wealth of security and intelligence experience and exemplary service to our nation make him the perfect fit as the new chief of school safety and security. I look forward to working with Chief Scott as we continue to expand our strong collaboration and communications between state agencies to provide a safe environment for every Texas student, parent, teacher and faculty member.”

Here is an overview of Scott’s resume:

• Responsible Assistant Special Agent for the US Secret Service Dallas/North Texas District
• Assistant to the Special Agent in Charge of the North Texas Cyber ​​Fraud Task Force
• Assistant to the Special Agent in Charge for the Dallas Protective Intelligence & Physical Protection Unit
• Acting Assistant Special Agent at Secret Service Headquarters/Protective Operations Division in Washington, DC
• Special Agent in the Vice President’s and Dignitaries’ Protection Departments in Washington, DC and the Houston Field Office
• US Army Field Artillery Officer
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Texas Tech University, where he was named a Distinguished Military Graduate.

“I am honored to join the Texas Education Agency in this capacity,” said Scott. “I plan to work closely with partner agencies and school systems across the state to ensure the safety of our students and staff.”

Abbott’s office said Scott will report directly to TEA officer Mike Morath. He will also have a direct line to the governor’s office.

“As both an education commissioner and a father, I recognize that our schools must be safe for students to learn and grow,” Morath said. “John Scott, TEA’s new director of school safety and security, brings incredible safety expertise to this role. We are grateful for Governor Abbott’s leadership on this critical matter.”