Chief of Police

Starting June 1, 2026, based at the Elkhart Independent School District Office in Elkhart, Texas.

About the role

Establish and administer security regulations and procedures to protect students, staff, and property. Ensure enforcement of all federal, state, and local laws and ordinances and coordinate with outside law enforcement agencies.

Responsibilities

• Direct the daily operations of the district police department to ensure effective law enforcement.
• Supervise, evaluate, and recommend the hiring and firing of police officers, security guards, and department clerical staff.
• Coordinate enforcement activities with outside law enforcement agencies, other department directors, and campus principals; develop and implement preventative security programs, gang management plans, and other safety programs.
• Investigate and make recommendations on all complaints and accusations made against district police officers or staff.
• Ensure enforcement of all laws and ordinances within the scope of board policy and the jurisdiction of the district.
• Oversee investigation of criminal activities occurring within the district’s jurisdiction and support other agencies conducting investigations.
• Serve as district liaison to state and local law enforcement agencies and juvenile authorities; represent the district on assigned committees and task forces.
• Oversee the school guardian program.
• Develop department safety procedures, including procedures for safe handling and use of firearms.
• Serve on district or campus behavioral threat assessment and safe and supportive schools team.
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Select, train, supervise, and evaluate staff; make sound recommendations relative to assignment, retention, discipline, and dismissal.
• Evaluate job performance of employees to ensure effectiveness.
• Prepare, review, and revise police department job descriptions.
• Maintain property room for storage of weapons and contraband confiscated on district property.
• Compile and administer department budget based on documented needs; ensure operations are cost-effective and funds are managed wisely.
• Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required, including affidavits for arrest, incident reports, and activity reports.
• Oversee development, maintenance, and implementation of the district’s multi-hazard emergency operations plan; ensure campus plans are up-to-date and in compliance with the latest standards in emergency response.
• Compile, maintain, and file reports, records, audits including DVA, and other documents as required.
• Prepare and deliver written and oral presentations regarding security and safety issues to the board, staff, and community as required.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Texas Peace Officer license issued by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
• Successful completion of training required by Texas Education Code (TEC) 96.641 and Texas Occupation Code 1701.2633.
• Clear and valid Texas driver’s license.
• Experience as a fully commissioned police officer.
• Law enforcement experience in supervisory or command capacity.
• Must complete initial chief training within two years of appointment.

Working Conditions

• Tools/Equipment Used: District vehicle, firearm, handcuffs, alarm system, security equipment, two-way radio, fire extinguisher, and standard office equipment including computer and peripherals.
• Posture: Prolonged sitting and standing.
• Motion: Strenuous walking and climbing; frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; frequent driving.
• Lifting: Moderate lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds).
• Environment: Work inside and outside (moderate exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather). Frequent districtwide travel.
• Other: Specific hearing and visual requirements. May be subject to adverse and hazardous working conditions, including violent and armed confrontations. Ability to control sudden violent or extreme physical acts of others and exhibit rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously.
• Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; prolonged hours; on call 24 hours a day.