SPS adds School Resource Officer
Posted on 01/09/2024
Officer Kayla Martin(SPS) -- Officer Kayla Martin joined Sapulpa Public Schools' Safety and Security team in January of 2024. She is the second School Resource Officer from Sapulpa Police Department to join the district, adding an extra layer of security and prompt response at all SPS campuses.

Officer Martin joins Safety and Security Director Glenn Coffey and safety and security officers Steve Thompson and Matt Stewart. The team, along with assistance from Sapulpa Police Department and the Creek County Sheriff's Office, will provide comprehensive law enforcement presence across the district and at district events. 

Officer Martin, a two and a half year veteran of Sapulpa Police Department, will office at Sapulpa High School. She says she felt a calling to connect with young people after working with juveniles while responding to emergency calls.

"When working with juveniles, I felt a pull to talk them through issues and get to know them. I want to leave a lasting impact on students as they become adults, and give them a better outlook on police," said Officer Martin.

She views her new position as SRO as something beyond providing safety for our schools.

"I want to help make our students better citizens," she said.

Officer Martin has two children in elementary school. She has been an Army Reservist for 12 years, loves to bake, and cheer on her children in athletics.

Officer Martin will attend more intensive SRO training later this semester. She worked with Safety and Security Director Glenn Coffey in field training at SPD. Coffey, a retired SPD captain with 25 years of law enforcement service, has built the security team since joining SPS in July of 2022. 

Coffey initiated the Vector Alert for school threat reporting, which began this month. He manages emergency drills, and, along with SRO Martin, works closely with the district's counselors, mental health and behavior specialists. In addition, Coffey built a system which allows bus drivers to serve as security guards for exterior perimeters between bus routes.

RELATED:
Learn more about SPS Safety and Security procedures and meet the team.

Vector Alert: Report a school safety tip anonymously (tip reporting service monitored only during school hours on school days. In an emergency, dial 911).