Thursday, January 9, marks Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital contributions of law enforcement to our communities. Tyler ISD is proud to honor the dedicated District police officers who work to ensure our schools remain a safe and welcoming environment for students, staff, and visitors.
Tyler ISD is fortunate to have the third-largest law enforcement agency in Smith County, following the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and the Tyler Police Department. The district’s Police Department includes 34 uniformed officers certified by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, along with a specialized K-9 program that enhances security across campuses.
“As a dad of three children, the safety and security of all our children and staff keep me up at night,” Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford said. “Along with providing the best education for all students, this is one of my top priorities for the district.”
Tyler ISD leads the way in student and staff safety, surpassing state and national standards. Districts across Texas have sought insights from Tyler ISD’s proactive safety and security measures.
Every Tyler ISD police officer has completed the Active Shooter Response for School-Based Law Enforcement class, including training beyond the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center (ALERRT) program as a part of our current safety and security standards. Further reinforcing the district’s safety initiatives, the Department of Safety and Security includes four retired FBI agents, bringing a wealth of experience to the team.
With the support of $1.5 million in School Safety and Security Grants, Tyler ISD has implemented numerous safety enhancements, including bullet-resistant film, advanced two-way radios, perimeter fencing, and an extensive surveillance system with approximately 2,000 cameras monitoring student and staff safety. Upgrades to bus camera systems and improved outdoor lighting at various facilities further enhance the district’s security infrastructure.
The Tyler ISD Police Department, along with the district’s Safety and Security Team, is poised to build on its strong foundation and implement new strategies to address evolving safety challenges. The district utilizes advanced surveillance systems, secure access controls, and communication tools to monitor and respond to potential threats, ensuring real-time data and rapid response in emergencies. Regular training for staff, students, and law enforcement personnel ensures readiness in various scenarios.
“Training is essential to our preparedness,” Tyler ISD Chief of Police Destry Walsworth explained. “From active shooter drills to mental health crisis intervention, we must be ready for any situation.”
Collaborative partnerships with local law enforcement, emergency services, and community organizations create a network of support that enhances overall safety for students and staff.
Walsworth emphasizes that school safety is a shared responsibility. “It takes all of us working together—parents, teachers, students, and community members—to create a culture of safety,” he said. “When we collaborate, we can overcome any challenge.”
To highlight safety and security efforts or for more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.