The City of Early posted the following on its website Monday:

The City of Early Police Department and the Early Independent School District are pleased to announce a new position within the schools that will help to keep our children safe even more. For the last few months, the two entities have partnered with each other to establish a School Resource Officer who will act as the law enforcement and security for all four Early campuses. The two came together to decide on which officer would be the best fit for the position and the consensus fell on Officer Tasha Tobias who was very pleased to accept the position.

“Officer Tobias was the pick from the school and us. She was a very good fit for this position and already has the rapport with the students and the teachers since she teaches the D.R.E.A.M. program.” said Chief David Mercer.

Officer Tobias’ duties will include patrolling the campuses during school hours, being present at events including football games and implementing more education on topics such as drugs, bullying and internet safety. Additionally, the State now requires schools to establish a Threat Assessment Committee which will keep an eye out for any threats made against the schools. Officer Tobias will be involved in that committee and work as an investigator of such issues.

“I believe that being in the schools and combining community relations and law enforcement is a great thing. Building rapport with the students through education and familiarity will be beneficial to all.” said Officer Tobias.

Officer Tobias worked for Brownwood ISD as a paraprofessional and a secretary before switching up her career as a law enforcement officer in 2018. To her, this position is a blessing as it helps her combine two of her passions into one position.

“I’m really excited. Currently I teach D.R.E.A.M. to the 5th graders but now I can educate other age groups on topics including internet safety, bullying, and other situation topics. This is an opportunity to not only keep the students safer but also to provide them with tools to help them make better decisions in any situation they may encounter through peer pressure and other avenues.” said Officer Tobias.

The position is paid for by both the school district and the City of Early since Officer Tobias will also be available to patrol for the City on days where there is no school or on weekends when she is needed. Both the City and the ISD believe that this position is much needed and will greatly benefit the community by giving peace of mind during a time of such high stress for teachers, students, and their parents.