The police department that patrols North Springs High School and Riverwood International Charter School now meets 141 professional standards set by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, the district confirmed in a Thursday, Aug. 6 announcement.
The GACP certification covers policies on use of force, training, operations, accountability and community policing across nine chapters. It's voluntary. The credential is valid for three years and qualifies agencies insured through the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency for a 20% reduction in liability premiums.
Chief of Police Mark Sulborski, who leads the 88-sworn-officer department from its headquarters at 6201 Powers Ferry Road in Atlanta, said the credential "will continue to guide the agency moving forward through the years as we strive to provide the very best of services to the community that we serve."
As we reported July 28, the certification was presented at the district's 2026-27 Kick-Off Staff Meeting on Monday, July 13. That earlier account cited 139 standards from the district's website; the official press release now confirms the final count is 141.
The department's 88 sworn officers serve every Fulton County Schools campus and school zone, including the two Sandy Springs high schools. The figure is higher than the "more than 60" officers listed on the department's own webpage, which may reflect a different counting method or an outdated roster.
New community programs
Beyond the certification, the press release details several community policing initiatives the department runs:
- Beyond the Badge — officers read to students, attend career fairs, give safety presentations and mentor students.
- GREAT (Gang Resistance Education and Training)
- DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)
- PAL (Police Athletic League)
During the 2025-26 school year, the department piloted its PAL Mentoring Program at Bear Creek Middle School, focusing on confidence, decision-making and resilience for middle schoolers. Administrative Officer Raquel Joseph said in the release that the department's mission is "to preserve life and promote education."
The department also partnered with the City of South Fulton Police to bring a Camp 911 Summer Program to Bear Creek, a three-week experience that included athletic activities and instruction in conflict resolution, bullying prevention and leadership development.
Families with safety concerns can reach the FCS Police Department at 470-254-0599 or the 24-hour line at 404-730-7911.
