George Washington Sworn In as School Police Chief
The former Atlanta and Savannah police leader assumed command of the school district police force earlier this month.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in People
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George Washington has officially taken the helm as the Savannah-Chatham County Board of Education police chief. He transitioned into the role following a career spanning over three decades in law enforcement and military service.
Why it matters
The new chief plans to shift the focus of the school police force toward supporting student outcomes. His strategy prioritizes student well-being rather than centering on the criminal justice system.
The new chief brings over 30 years of professional leadership experience to the department. This career background includes roles as a U.S. Army lieutenant colonel and leadership positions at the Savannah and Atlanta police departments.
The players
George Washington
He is the new Savannah-Chatham County Board of Education police chief who previously served as a U.S. Army lieutenant colonel.
Cheryl Washington
She is the wife of the police chief who participated in his official badge-pinning ceremony.
The details
During a badge-pinning ceremony at Woodville-Tompkins High School, the chief addressed his command and received his badge from his wife, Cheryl. Washington aims to realign the department mission to better serve the school community.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: George Washington assumed his duties as police chief.
October 9, 2026: The formal badge-pinning ceremony occurred at Woodville-Tompkins High School.
Market Landscape
This appointment highlights the continued integration of municipal law enforcement leadership into specialized local agencies. The shift positions the district to leverage the chief's extensive regional police experience to stabilize and reform the board's security operations.
The leadership change signals a new procedural approach for students interacting with campus security personnel. Families can expect a renewed emphasis on support-based intervention strategies within local school facilities.
The takeaway
The incoming chief intends to minimize student entry into the criminal justice system by focusing on internal support services. This strategic shift represents a notable change in how the department will interact with the student body moving forward.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership changes, visit Savannah People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wtoc.
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