CCSD News 2024-25
July 9, 2024
CCSD Police earn prestigious state certification in record time
The Columbia County School District Police Department (CCSDPD) received State Certification by successfully completing the Georgia Association Chiefs of Police (GACP) Georgia Law Enforcement Certification Program.
After a rigorous application and process review, the CCSDPD joins the ranks of only 140 top law enforcement agencies, out of 700 law enforcement agencies across the state, of which 41 are school police, to successfully demonstrate best practices for effective and professional law enforcement. Out of the 180 school districts across the state, the CCSDPD is now one of only five to earn certification. Cornerstones of the certification program include professionalism, positive community support, transparency, ethical conduct, and more. As part of the accreditation process, the CCSDPD met a required 141 standards covering nine areas essential to effective law enforcement. Additionally, the typical 36-month process was completed by the CCSDPD in an impressive 13 months, signifying the department’s commitment to excellence.
“We are so proud of our outstanding team of professional law enforcement officers and staff for their continued dedication to the safety of our schools, students, and staff,” said Dr. Steven Flynt, Superintendent. “This certification is an impressive achievement and is emblematic of the great work that is taking place all across the CCSD every day to help ensure our students receive the high-quality education they deserve, in a safe, positive environment.”
In 2018, the Columbia County Board of Education approved the placement of a dedicated, POST-certified, School Resource Officer in every school. In 2022, the CCSD PD was established along with full jurisdiction of school safety. Today, the Columbia County School District has a dedicated district training officer, and a School Resource Officer in every school, with two at every high school.
With accreditation complete, the CCSDPD will continue to participate in compliance monitoring.
Congratulations, CCSDPD.
Associate Superintendent Penny Jackson (left), and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Steve Flynt (right), pictured with members of the Columbia County School District Police Department are presented with a plaque from a representative of the Georgia Association Chiefs of Police (GACP), Ed Dinsmore, during the Columbia County Board of Education Meeting on July 9, 2024.
CCSD Police Department Chief Gary Ownes (right), shakes hands with Ed Dinsmore of the Georgia Association Chiefs of Police (left), with CCSD Police Department Captain Joseph Thompson (center), after being presented with a plaque recognizing the department's prestigious state certification, during a Board of Education meeting.
CCSD Police Department Chief Gary Ownes delivers brief remarks during the presentation of a plaque from the Georgia Association Chiefs of Police recognizing the department's earning prestigious state certification, during a Board of Education meeting.