Police Chief Paul Cairney has recently taken on the role of Chief of Police to protect the students and staff of Argyle ISD.

Cairney has been a resident of Argyle since 2011 but had heard of the position to work with the school only recently. He began his time at AHS this year working along-side the previous Chief Ralph Price. Before working at Argyle, Cairney served for twenty-one years as a past law enforcement and security officer in the United States Air Force.

“I went to the Air Force thinking I wanted to be a pilot,” Cairney said, “but I realized I wanted more of a leadership role.”

Cairney makes his way to Hilltop elementary, the intermediate school, and the high school every morning to watch and greet students as they start off their day.

Cairney’s office is located in the high school, but he can be counted on to be at any place in Argyle when he is needed.

“I feel that he builds relationships with the students and allows us to feel comfortable around him,” sophomore Molly Sheridan said.

Outside of  school hours, Cairney and his wife, Lynn, are big protectors of animals.

“We’re horse people,” Cairney said. “We have a soft spot for rescue animals, so all of our animals have come from different organizations.”

The Argyle students received a very qualified man for the job as Cairney has worked in Colorado, Europe, and now, Argyle.

“I retired as a Lieutenant Colonel,” Cairney said, “I have went to some great places, but also some terrible places.”

With that in mind, Cairney has spoken to the student body about always being alert, but admits that he “love[s] the role of protecting.”

“I think having him around gives everyone a sense of security, which is how you should feel at school,” sophomore Gracie Baum said.