CULLMAN, Ala. – Recently, the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office and Cullman Police Department each had school resource officer (SRO) training programs, as well as prepped for school safety protocols for the new year.
Sheriff Matt Gentry said the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office and the Board of Education continue to prioritize safety across all school campuses through strong communication and collaboration.
“Our long-standing partnership plays a critical role in ensuring that students return to a secure and welcoming learning environment each year,” Gentry said. “Administrators and school resource officers work side by side on a daily basis, reinforcing their shared commitment to student safety.”
Gentry said, equally important are the relationships fostered between SROs and the broader school community, including parents, students, faculty and staff.
“When everyone works together — staying vigilant and placing a personal focus on safety — our schools become more than just institutions,” Gentry said. “They become places where children can grow, learn and thrive.”
Police Chief Joey Duncan said as the new school year approaches, one of the most important conversations the community can have is about safety in and around our schools.
“For the Cullman Police Department and families, being on the same page isn’t just helpful; it’s essential,” Duncan said. “Ensuring the safety of our students requires constant coordination, awareness and shared responsibility. Safety isn’t just about what happens inside the school building. It’s about what happens in the car line, in the parking lot and on the sidewalks where children walk. The Cullman Police Department plays a crucial role in this, but their efforts are most effective when parents, students and the broader community are involved.”
Duncan said being on the “same page” means clear communication between law enforcement and the public, especially regarding rules, procedures and expectations.
“When families understand the safety protocols in place and know how to support them, those protocols work better,” Duncan said. “It also means trust. Students feel safer knowing their school is protected by a department that cares, and parents rest easier knowing there’s a strong partnership in place.”
The Cullman Police Department continues to take proactive steps to make schools safer for the upcoming year. Officers are already working closely with local school administrators to update emergency response plans, enhance on-campus patrols, and ensure SROs are fully prepared for the year ahead.
Some highlights of Cullman PD’s ongoing efforts include:
- Increased presence: Officers will maintain a visible presence during school arrival and dismissal times to ensure safe traffic flow and deter unsafe driving or suspicious activity
- Updated training: SROs and officers have received updated training on school-specific emergency response, including active shooter protocols and mental health crisis intervention
- Safety audits: Cullman PD collaborates with school officials to conduct regular security audits and drills to identify vulnerabilities and make improvements.
- Community outreach: The department continues to hold safety forums and work with parent-teacher organizations to keep families informed
Gentry said as preparations for the new academic year continue, both agencies will remain dedicated to keeping Cullman County schools a safe and positive space for education.
”Our SROs from the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office are actively preparing to make schools safer for the upcoming academic year through intensive training and certification,” Gentry said. “This preparation includes updating their professional certifications, sharpening their decision-making skills and conducting firearms proficiency exercises. In addition, our deputies undergo advanced Active Shooter Response Training to ensure they’re equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of an emergency. We’re fully committed to creating a secure learning environment, and this training reflects the priority we place on protecting every student, teacher and staff member across Cullman County campuses.”
Duncan said as families send children back to class, there are a few important reminders that every parent and student should keep in mind:
- Drive carefully: School zones have strict speed limits for a reason. Stay off your phone, follow the signs and always be on the lookout for crossing children.
- Follow drop-off protocols: Each school has specific rules for where and how to drop off students. Following them isn’t just about convenience; it’s about preventing crashes.
- Report concerns: If you see something that feels off, whether it’s a suspicious vehicle near a school or a concerning post on social media, say something. Cullman PD and school staff would rather investigate a false alarm than miss a real threat.
- Talk with your kids: Make safety a daily conversation. From knowing who to talk to if they feel unsafe, to understanding the importance of staying aware of their surroundings, student awareness is a vital piece of school safety.
“It takes all of us parents, educators, students and law enforcement working together to make our schools the safe havens they should be,” Duncan said. “The Cullman Police Department is doing their part with dedication and preparation. Let’s do ours with awareness, cooperation and a commitment to keeping every student safe. Here’s to a safe, successful school year in Cullman.”
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As the new school year approaches, the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office and Cullman Police Department are implementing updated training and safety protocols to protect students, staff, and families.
Both agencies have been working closely with local school administrators to ensure campuses are secure and emergency plans are up to date. School resource officers have completed advanced training in active shooter response, mental health crisis intervention, and decision-making under pressure.
The Sheriff’s Office continues to prioritize strong relationships between SROs and the school community, while the Police Department is increasing visibility during arrival and dismissal to manage traffic and deter unsafe behavior.
Additional efforts include regular safety audits, updated emergency response plans, and community outreach through forums and partnerships with parent-teacher groups.
Families are encouraged to follow school drop-off procedures, obey school zone speed limits, report suspicious behavior, and have regular conversations with their children about personal safety.
With continued coordination between law enforcement, schools, and families, Cullman County officials are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment for all students heading into the new academic year.
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