Cobb Reporter

Lieutenant Mike Wilson and Officer Pete Saxton from the Cobb Schools Police Department recently discussed various safety measures aimed at protecting students and staff. They elaborated on the strategies employed by the department to ensure a secure environment for the entire school community.

Cobb's School District employs a well-trained police force that collaborates with select external agencies. These agencies aid in preparing schools for emergencies and offer support when necessary. The District's safety protocols include the use of special badges specifically designed for school lockdown situations and to request assistance. Regular drills are conducted to help familiarize both school staff and students with these emergency procedures.

Nationwide, the issues of vaping and opioids are on the rise, and in response, Cobb's law enforcement works alongside local police to curtail the influence of these substances within its schools. The police not only address the legal aspects but also educate students about the health implications of drug use.

Further, the Cobb Schools Police tackle other matters such as bullying, gangs, and mental health concerns among students. Their approach involves creating intervention units, fostering relationships between officers and students, and introducing the Safe Schools alert tip line, which allows for the anonymous reporting of incidents.