Long before the first school bell of the day rings, Cullman Police Department School Resource Officer (SRO) Bill Pagan is already hard at work, setting up traffic cones and directing cars outside West Elementary School, ensuring the safety of the community. Whether it’s raining or sunny, hot or cold, he’s there, waving, smiling and greeting parents and students as they begin their days.
“Most SROs direct traffic in the morning and the afternoon. In the rain and cold weather, it can sometimes be challenging. I have always enjoyed directing school traffic as I enjoy waving and speaking to parents and children in the car lines,” Pagan explained.
This year will mark his third year in the position. His role extends far beyond traffic to monitoring the campus, checking doors and locks, scanning security footage and working closely with faculty and staff to ensure everyone’s safety.
“As an SRO, our main responsibility is to ensure the safety and welfare of students and faculty,” he said “We accomplish this by walking the campus regularly and viewing cameras daily. We assist principals and teachers with decisions on safety and general public information to help them achieve their daily objectives.”
For Pagan, serving the community is a calling born from his desire to help and serve others.
“Originally, I thought about joining the military when I was young, as I love aviation. I always wanted to be a fighter pilot. I guess, like many, we can thank the movie ‘Top Gun,’” he said with a laugh. “Early on, I knew I wanted to go into a career where I helped people. And that is why I still enjoy my job as a police officer and school resource officer today. I get to help people navigate life every day as a life coach. The best life is one of service. I believe the happiest folks on Earth are those who serve others.”
Before becoming a full-time SRO, Pagan taught the D.A.R.E. program in Cullman City Schools for 12 years. During that time, he taught more than 4,000 classes, ranging from Head Start to eighth grade, creating a lasting impact on students in the city school system.
“When I started teaching, I was scared to death of public speaking. But after a year or two, I became quite confident and really enjoyed teaching,” he shared. “Through the years, I always look forward to seeing students that I had in my classes.”
Officer Pagan recognizes that some may question the purpose and impact of the D.A.R.E. program, but he said he has seen the positive results firsthand.
“Through the years, I have heard some say that there is no evidence that programs like D.A.R.E. positively influence students. I can 100% say that is not true. I have personally had multiple students and parents tell me that once the students have gotten older, many, if not all, of the topics we discuss are encountered in high school, if not before,” he said. “Through the years, I cherish the most the sincere comments and questions from eager students.”
Even though he no longer teaches, Pagan hopes to see education return to the department’s daily outreach.
“Being full time at West Elementary as their school resource officer, I no longer have the opportunity to teach. I do believe the police department has plans to incorporate some educational curriculum for students once they find someone who can teach full time.”
To Officer Pagan, connection is the most powerful tool a police department has.
“I believe community policing is one of the best ways to reach a community in law enforcement… programs designed to engage the community build relationships and trust with those we serve,” he said.
From digital investigations to school campus walks, law enforcement has changed over the years — but Pagan’s favorite parts of the job have remained heartfelt and straightforward.
“I really enjoy making little people smile and laugh. I try to always have ‘Dad’ jokes ready on-hand for my students,” he laughed. “I enjoy doing the little things others pass on doing… helping folks change a tire or helping someone get fuel for their vehicle was one of my favorite things to do when I worked patrol.”
Around town, it’s not uncommon for him to be stopped by a familiar face.
“That is, to me, the best part! I really enjoy seeing parents and students of all ages when I am around town. My kids laugh at me and tell me I know everyone,” he smiled. “Knowing that, hopefully, I positively impacted someone is so encouraging.”
His message for others is simple but powerful: serve others, hold on to faith and keep getting back up.
“It has been well said that life is hard, but God is good! I believe that wholeheartedly. Without a relationship with Jesus Christ, I would not be able to have such a profound impact on the lives of young people today,” Pagan said. “As for advice for young people: NEVER give up! Remember, it is not how many times you fall in life; it is how many times you get up that counts.”
Whether giving words of encouragement or greeting a car full of kids on a school morning, Officer Bill Pagan consistently demonstrates that the smallest acts of service can have a profound impact.
