-David Crowder, WRGA News-
The Floyd County Board of Education has approved a resolution seeking to establish its own law enforcement unit to be known as the Floyd County Schools Police Department.
For years, Floyd County Police Officers have served as school resource officers, with the school system paying 75 percent of the cost.
However, when it was learned that number would be going to 100 percent, discussions began about the school system forming its own police department, which is not uncommon.
Around 50 school systems across Georgia have their own law enforcement departments, including Polk and Bartow Counties.
The resolution seeks recognition of the department by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council as a law enforcement unit.
School security personnel who, when certified by the POST Council and authorized by the Board, will have the same law enforcement powers on school property, including the power of arrest.
The position of Director of Safety and Security will be reclassified as Chief of Police.
The goal is to have the plan in place in July of next year, and to eventually bring in additional officers.
Floyd County School Superintendent Glenn White admits that with more officers, there will be more costs, but added, “We want to make sure our students and staff are safe. That’s our priority.”
White said he intends to include a request in the next special purpose, local option sales tax for education for funds that will pay for vehicles and equipment.
