Officer Hayden Hurley, a School Resource Officer (SRO) with the Cobb Schools Police Department, has been recognized for his dedication to student safety and mentorship at Awtrey Middle School, Kennesaw Elementary School, and Big Shanty Intermediate School. Hurley has served in the district for over five years and has spent nearly three years working across these schools.
Hurley describes his role as more than a job, saying, “I think I’m meant to be an SRO, honestly. I did a lot of other stuff, but this is just — I get to spend my day with kids.” He was drawn to the Cobb County School District after learning about its mission and opportunities from a friend. “Once I heard all the benefits — I get to hang out with kids all day, keep them safe, and mentor—I was sold. Easy sell,” he said.
His daily responsibilities extend beyond security. Hurley focuses on building relationships with students and their families. “The most impactful part to me is the relationships I build with the kids and their families,” he said. “These are my kids. I protect them as if they were my own. I care about them that much.” He maintains contact with former students, celebrating their progress even after they leave middle school.
Hurley’s background includes a master’s degree in social work, which he says helps him understand and support students from both law enforcement and social work perspectives. “That helps so much to build relationships with the kids, being trusted. They share a lot with me, and I help them find resources, reach out to family, let them know somebody cares about them, loves them,” Hurley explained.
Awtrey Principal Jeff Crawford praised Hurley’s impact on the school community: “Oh my gosh, he’s phenomenal—intensely focused on our safety and caring for everybody in our school community,” Crawford said. “He’s become a trusted adult for so many people on campus, making a huge difference to help our kids be successful.” Crawford also highlighted Hurley’s role as a positive example: “He is sincerely focused on the well-being of other human beings. He is the real deal, and he’s a role model 100% for everybody.”
Hurley was recently recognized at Awtrey for exemplifying leadership qualities associated with creating mutually beneficial outcomes among students and staff. Principal Crawford noted his skill in supporting others while ensuring their success.
Reflecting on his experience working in Cobb County schools, Hurley stated: “It’s the best school district in the state of Georgia, arguably the nation. I’ve never once felt like a number, which is amazing. We have the best equipment, the best training, and we’re valued.”
Principal Crawford expressed appreciation for Hurley’s contributions: “Thank you for being such a vital part of our team,” he said. “Awtrey is better because you are serving here.”
Cobb Schools Police Chief Wayne Pickett also commended Officer Hurley’s approach: “Officer Hurley has a unique ability to connect with young people, even in challenging situations,” Pickett said. “Above all, he is a dedicated law enforcement professional committed to ensuring the safety of students and staff. He consistently demonstrates that mentorship and building positive relationships with students are essential aspects of his role.”
The recognition comes during Public Safety Appreciation Week as Cobb County School District acknowledges its SROs’ efforts in maintaining safe learning environments.
