With school safety more important than ever, City View ISD in Wichita Falls has taken strong steps to ensure its students and staff are well-protected. The district now benefits from the experience of three former Wichita Falls Police Department (WFPD) officers, who together bring nearly 100 years of law enforcement experience to the school system.
A New Chapter in School Policing
It all started in 2020, when former WFPD Lieutenant Kyle Collier founded the City View ISD Police Department. For a while, he was the only officer. But soon, he reached out to an old friend and respected colleague—former WFPD Chief Ken Coughlin.
“I thought, well, you know? I’m still able. I’m still physically fit enough to be able to handle it,” Coughlin shared. “So, I’m thinking, why not be a part of helping keep the kids safe? That’s what it’s all about.”
Coughlin served the WFPD for 22 years, and though moving from street patrol to school hallways is a big shift, he believes it’s a meaningful one.
Building Trust and Connections With Students
“The key for us here is more with the kids,” said Coughlin. “It’s about making that connection. These kids deserve to feel safe in their schools.”
Soon after hiring Coughlin, Collier brought in another trusted name—Larry Robinett, a veteran officer with extensive experience. With all three now on board, the school district enjoys the combined wisdom of three lifelong law enforcement professionals.
Collier added, “It comes into play on a daily basis. You see it every day—how they talk with teachers, talk with students. It makes a big difference.”
More Than Just Patrol—Teaching Life Lessons
While patrolling the halls is part of their job, these officers are doing much more than keeping watch. For Coughlin, one of the most fulfilling parts of the role is being in the classroom, teaching students during four periods each day.
“To me, the big draw here was being able to teach the kids,” he said. “Because I can pass on information and things I’ve learned—not just from my own experiences, but from mistakes I’ve seen others make.”
His goal is to equip students with real-life knowledge that can guide them through challenges both in and out of school.