For almost three decades, AISD has maintained its own police department. The district's police department establishes a safe and secure environment for our future leaders to learn, grow, and succeed inside and outside of the classroom.
The department provides general law enforcement, security and safety services at AISD and is divided into five bureaus, including:
- Administrative Services, which focuses on data processing,
- Emergency Management, which spearheads mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery services,
- Life Safety Systems, which oversees alarms, fire suppression systems and card access,
- Special Operations, which is dedicated to investigations, training/courier, technology and dispatch services, and
- Uniform Services, which comprises the School Resource Officers and patrol teams.
AISD's police department has been named a Recognized Law Enforcement Agency by the Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program since Aug. 22, 2008. To earn this designation, the department was required to prove compliance with more than 160 best practices established by Texas law enforcement professionals.
Meet the Chief
Chief of Police Eric Mendez has served in law enforcement for 23 years. He joined the AISD Police Department in March 1999 and has served in the positions of patrol officer, School Resource Officer at Johnston High School, sergeant, lieutenant and captain.
Chief Mendez believes every moment is a learning moment for AISD students. He encourages and expects district police officers to use every opportunity to educate each student for their future success. For example, AISD officers play a critical role for students through the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program. Since 2007, the district has offered the GREAT program as a prevention strategy for student delinquency, violence and gang membership. The program targets children before they are introduced to gangs and delinquent behavior, and tries to build a sense of respect and community involvement.
Chief Mendez earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from the University of Phoenix. He earned his master’s degree in criminal justice leadership and management from Sam Houston State University in December 2012. Chief Mendez also holds a Master Peace Officer Certification.
Interested in learning more about Chief Mendez and AISD's award-winning police department? Read the "Aiming High" profile on Chief Mendez in Hispanic Almanac and visit the AISD police department's website.