By Rachel Hall, reporting for Bluebonnet News
Congratulations were echoed around the room after the Splendora ISD School Board voted unanimously 4-0 to select Houston Police Department Commander Colin Weatherly as the district’s police chief at a special board meeting held on Friday, Dec. 20.
“We went through a very extensive search process,” explained Superintendent Dr. Jeff Burke. “Based on the wealth of experience and references from Houston Police Department, we felt he was the right person for the job.”
Chief Weatherly brings 24 years of law enforcement experience with HPD to the district, as well as a heart for children.
“I wanted to be a youth director, but that didn’t pan out so I became a police officer,” he said. “My wife and I have always taught the youth in church and went on mission trips – being involved with kids has always been my passion.”
Over the next few months, Chief Weatherly will be assessing the department and any potential needs as well as building a rapport with individuals throughout the district.
“I’m not one to sit behind the desk. I will be in the schools,” he explained. “I would like to get to know the administrators, the staff, and the students.”
Prevention is the best key to deter crime, fights, and other mischievous behavior and that’s one reason officers should be visible and walking around the hallways, according to Chief Weatherly.
“I don’t want them to worry the police are in our school – from me all the way down to the officers – it’s the norm to see officers in the school and to interact with everyone,” he said.
Chief Weatherly looks forward to bringing his family-oriented style of leadership and getting everyone involved in a community policing effort.
“It takes a village to raise a child,” he said. “I want to build that relationship and figure out how we can help everyone.”
As the Retired Police Chief for The University of Oklahoma I want you to know that the selection you have made is top drawer! I called upon Colin my time times to assist me in my duties as the Police Chief for OU! Without hesitation or reservation he was there to assist! You have a winner! Congratulations on your selection!
I worked with Colin in HPD HOMICIDE. He is a top notch individual and first-rate law officer. He will make a great Chief!
He is the best you can ask for. He is kind, considerate, courteous, helpful and always willing to help. I promise you all picked the right man for the job.
Congratulations Colin !!! I know that they have chosen a good person as their Chief !!!