October 9, 2025 — Walking down the halls of Awtrey Middle School, School Resource Officer (SRO) Hayden Hurley fist bumps and greets students with a huge smile. For Officer Hurley, serving as part of the Cobb Schools Police Department isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. 

“I think I’m meant to be an SRO, honestly,” Officer Hurley said. “I did a lot of other stuff, but this is just — I get to spend my day with kids.”

That sense of purpose has guided him since the day he joined the district about five and a half years ago. After hearing from a friend about what makes the Cobb County School District such a special place to serve, Officer Hurley was immediately drawn to the mission. For nearly three years, Officer Hurley has served and protected Awtrey, Kennesaw Elementary School, and Big Shanty Intermediate School.

“Once I heard all the benefits — I get to hang out with kids all day, keep them safe, and mentor—I was sold. Easy sell,” he declared.

Officer Hurley’s daily work goes far beyond patrols and security checks. He focuses on building connections—establishing trust with students, families, and staff so everyone feels supported and valued. 

“The most impactful part to me is the relationships I build with the kids and their families,” the Cobb Schools officer shared. “These are my kids. I protect them as if they were my own. I care about them that much.”

The bonds Officer Hurley makes last beyond middle school. He keeps in touch with the students he has mentored, celebrating their growth and success. “Going into North Cobb the other day and calling out a student I worked with for so long, she ran up, hugged me, and cried. That was like, you get to see the impact, which made all the difference in the world.”

A Heart for Helping 

Hurley’s path to public safety began with a desire to help people. He even considered becoming a doctor after receiving scholarships to Emory and LSU, but ultimately chose to pursue a career in law enforcement. 

“I got my master’s in social work. That’s another cool side, I can view kids and their families through both lenses—law enforcement and social work,” said Officer Hurley. “That helps so much to build relationships with the kids, being trusted. They share a lot with me, and I help them find resources, reach out to family, let them know somebody cares about them, loves them.” 

Awtrey's Principal Jeff Crawford insists Officer Hurley’s presence has transformed the school community. 

“Oh my gosh, he’s phenomenal—intensely focused on our safety and caring for everybody in our school community,” revealed Principal Crawford. “He’s become a trusted adult for so many people on campus, making a huge difference to help our kids be successful,” Principal Crawford added.

Officer Hurley’s influence extends far beyond safety drills and procedures. 

“Aside from his skill set, law enforcement-wise, what he does with relationship building is phenomenal,” the Awtrey principal added. “He is sincerely focused on the well-being of other human beings. He is the real deal, and he’s a role model 100% for everybody."

That commitment to leadership recently led to Officer Hurley’s recognition for exemplifying the “Think Win-Win” habit, part of Awtrey’s leadership development culture. 

“What he does to make win-win situations with all the people he interacts with, as far as making sure they are successful, knowing how to support them, but also making sure they are successful, is a phenomenal skill set,” Principal Crawford praised. 

Proud Part of our “One Team” 

When asked what he loves about working for the Cobb County School District, Hurley didn’t hesitate. 

“It’s the best school district in the state of Georgia, arguably the nation,” he said. “I’ve never once felt like a number, which is amazing. We have the best equipment, the best training, and we’re valued.”

That sense of appreciation goes both ways. 

“Thank you for being such a vital part of our team,” said Principal Crawford. “Awtrey is better because you are serving here.” 

Cobb Schools Police Chief Wayne Pickett commended Officer Hurley's work and ability to connect with students and staff.

"Officer Hurley has a unique ability to connect with young people, even in challenging situations," shared Chief Pickett. "Above all, he is a dedicated law enforcement professional committed to ensuring the safety of students and staff. He consistently demonstrates that mentorship and building positive relationships with students are essential aspects of his role." 

As we celebrate Public Safety Appreciation Week, the Cobb County School District extends a heartfelt thank you to Officer Hurley and to all our dedicated School Resource Officers for their unwavering commitment to keeping our students safe and being part of our One Team!