Chief of Police: District Police Department

Mexia Independent School District District-Wide - Mexia, Texas Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in ESC Region 12

Job : 5955099

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Police Chief:
District Police Department

Primary Purpose Direct and manage the Mexia Independent School District Police Department to protect students, employees, visitors, and district property. Provide professional, accountable law enforcement and coordinate campus safety, emergency response, and crime prevention in support of a safe learning environment. Report directly to the Superintendent and perform operational police duties as district needs require, within the authority established by law and the Board of Trustees.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• High school diploma or GED required; bachelor's degree in criminal justice, public administration, emergency management, or a related field preferred.
• Valid, active Texas peace officer license issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), in good standing; eligible for appointment as a chief administrator.
• Valid Texas driver's license and driving record meeting district requirements.
• Obtain the School-Based Law Enforcement Proficiency Certificate within 180 days of commission or placement in the district, unless already held. Complete required new chieftraining within two years of first appointment as a Texas police chief, as applicable, and maintain all required continuing education, active shooter response training, and firearms proficiency.

Satisfy applicable TCOLE appointment standards and district employment screening requirements; be able to meet the oath and bond requirements of Texas Education Code Section 37.081(h).

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible experience as a commissioned peace officer, including at least three years in a supervisory or command role.
• Experience in school-based law enforcement, juvenile investigations, community policing, or emergency management preferred. Advanced or Master Peace Officer Proficiency Certificate and recognized law enforcement leadership training preferred.

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Department Leadership and Operations

• 1. Direct daily police operations, establish command procedures, schedule personnel, and allocate resources to provide campus coverage and timely emergency response.
• 2. Advise the Superintendent on staffing, security needs, department performance, significant incidents, and legal or regulatory concerns. Recommend policies and procedures consistent with district goals and the authority established by the Board.
• 3. Maintain department authorization and compliance with TCOLE agency standards. Coordinate any required agency establishment or reorganization activities with district leadership and legal counsel.
• 4. Promote ethical conduct, impartial policing, and accountability. Establish procedures foruse of force, searches, arrests, vehicle operations, firearms safety, and response to critical incidents.
• 5. Coordinate with campus principals and district departments on prevention, campusaccess, facility security, traffic, and special events. Provide law enforcement coverage at athletic events, Board meetings, and other district activities as assigned.
• 6. Co-lead the District Guardian Program, including planning, coordinating, and conducting training throughout the year. Provide ongoing guidance and support to district guardians,monitor applicable legal and training requirements, and recommend program updates to maintain compliance.

Law Enforcement and Student Interaction

• 1. Enforce applicable laws within the jurisdiction and duties established by the Board and applicable law. Patrol district property and respond to emergencies, accidents, and reports of criminal activity.
• 2. Direct or conduct criminal investigations; collect and preserve evidence; prepare reports and charging documents; make lawful arrests; coordinate juvenile referrals; and testify in court as required.
• 3. Ensure police duties remain focused on lawful law enforcement intervention. Do not assign officers routine student discipline, school administrative tasks, or student contacts unrelated to lawful police duties. Coordinate behavioral concerns with campus behavior coordinators and administrators; permit appropriate informal contact consistent with law.
• 4. Use developmentally appropriate communication, de-escalation, and reasonable responses to student…