He’s protected presidents; now he’s protecting North East ISD students and staff.
North East ISD is committed to the safety and security of our students. That’s why our District has hired a former Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service as our new Senior Director of Safety and Security. Special Agent Paul Duran has spent more than 29 years with the Secret Service, working on protective and investigative missions.
“School safety and security, much like presidential protection, involves a system of interrelated elements that need to work together,” said Duran. “Beyond the physical protection measures, a comprehensive approach encompasses response and recovery, as well as prevention, mental health support, anti-bullying programs and school culture. I am excited to start this new position and get on campuses to work with staff and students.”
Duran brings decades of experience to his new role with our District. Most recently, he has been the Special Agent in charge of the San Antonio Secret Service Field Office, overseeing all Secret Service Operations in south and southwest Texas. His missions require threat management, including behavioral threat assessments and prevention of targeted violence. Duran spent several years as a member and team leader of the Secret Service’s Counter Assault Team, which provides tactical support of protectees and events. In addition, he was appointed to the Presidential Protection Division under the Bill Clinton and George W. Bush administrations. During that time, he worked as part of a team to design and implement security plans for domestic and foreign visits of the President, their families and other top officials.
As the new Senior Director of Safety and Security at NEISD, Duran will provide the strategic direction and leadership for the administration and coordination of the NEISD safety and security program. Additionally, he will develop, establish and enforce safety and security policies and procedures. He will also conduct threat assessments and train staff on how to de-escalate situations. Duran will work closely with the North East Police Department (NEPD) and NEISD’s Risk Management Office.
Duran’s sole focus will be the safety and security of our students and staff. Still, he wants parents and the community to know that ensuring our District’s safety and security will take all of us.
“The Secret Service is not successful in its protective responsibilities without the cooperation and collaboration of a variety of supporting entities,” said Duran. “Keeping schools safe is advanced by team efforts and the combined resources of various stakeholders. My role is to help all of those stakeholders provide the safest environment possible to help the District achieve its goal of academic excellence and responsible citizenship. Our District is invested and proactive in providing safe schools for student learning.”
“After this months-long search, we believe we have found the best person to enhance the safety and security of our District,” said NEISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sean Maika. “We appreciate his dedication to the Secret Service and look forward to what his high-level expertise will bring.”
Duran is currently wrapping up his work with the Secret Service and will begin with NEISD on October 3.
