THE CRISP morning air is filled with the chatter of children, the rustling of backpacks, and the occasional squeak of sneakers on the pavement. Officer Charlie Taylor stands tall at the front entrance of Westwood Elementary School every morning, rain or shine, greeting each child with a warm smile and a kind word. His presence at the school is more than just security — it’s a symbol of trust, friendship, and support. To the students at Westwood, he’s not just a police officer. He’s a mentor, a protector, and, in their eyes, the most popular person in the building.
“I love every kid here, and they love me,” Taylor said with a chuckle.
Taylor, who began his career as a school resource officer in 2016, spent two years at Coffee County Central High School before retiring. But retirement didn’t suit him. He returned to the Manchester Police Department two years ago and was assigned to Westwood Elementary, where he quickly found his calling.
“Many times at the high school level, kids have already made up their minds about law enforcement,” Taylor explained. “But here, in elementary school, this is where you make an impression.”
From the moment students step out of their parents’ cars in the morning to the time they head home in the afternoon, Taylor is a constant, reassuring presence. His responsibilities go beyond ensuring locked doors and monitoring hallways — he actively engages with students, making it his mission to build positive relationships.
“I hate when I hear parents tell their kids, ‘You better behave, or the police will come get you.’ I tell them, ‘I’ll come get you for
ice cream!’” he laughed. “I want these kids to know that I can be their friend. They need to trust me, not fear me.”
One of Taylor’s favorite parts of the job is being involved in the students’ daily lives. Whether it’s leading the new Life Skills training program, celebrating birthdays in the cafeteria, or simply sitting and chatting with students during lunch, he is an important part of their day-to-day experience.
“I’ve had teachers throw me out of the cafeteria because I cause too much of a disturbance,” he joked. “The kids get so excited when I come in — it’s the best part of my day.”
Taylor’s impact extends beyond the students. The school’s principal, assistant principal, and even the district superintendent recognize the difference he’s making.
“The kids at the high school were like a concrete wall,” Taylor said, recalled his previous position. “But these kids? They’re still learning, still growing. They can be molded. And that’s where I come in.”
What makes Taylor’s role even more meaningful is his deep connection to the community. He grew up in Manchester, attended Westwood Elementary himself, and now dedicates his career to ensuring that the next generation feels safe and supported.
“This is my home. These are my people,” he said. “I have a grandson in school, and I see the world we live in. It makes my job even more important.”
While school safety remains his primary responsibility, Taylor hopes his presence creates a better understanding of law enforcement within the community. He acknowledges that some students, due to cultural differences or personal experiences, may initially be wary of police officers.
“My job is to help bridge that gap,” he said. “I want every child — no matter their background — to know they can come to me for help, for advice, or just for a high-five in the hallway.”
Taylor’s impact is undeniable and he truly is a role model. It’s clear in the way students light up when they see him and in the respect he’s earned from parents and educators alike.
“People say these kids are our future, but no,” Taylor said, shaking his head. “They’re our now.”
In a time when the role of law enforcement in schools is more crucial than ever, Taylor is living proof that a school resource officer can be so much more than a badge and a uniform. He is not a “scary police officer.” He is a friend, a role model, and a guiding force for the students of Westwood Elementary. And to him, it’s just another day of doing what he loves.
“That’s my job,” he said simply with a smile. “And Iwouldn’t trade it for anything.” GN
