Dr. Jon Rysewyk, Director of Knox County Schools has appointed a Californian as head of Security. The last head of Security came from California, why keep repeating the same? Frustrating! We have plenty of qualified people in this community instead of moving one more here.
Press Release • Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk announced Friday that Carlo J. Granillo has been named Chief of Security for Knox County Schools. Mr. Granillo’s appointment comes after a national search, and he will start his new position beginning in March.
Mr. Granillo most recently served as Chief of Police for the Fontana (Calif.) School Police Department. FSPD is the primary law enforcement agency for the Fontana Unified School District, which has 45 schools and approximately 33,000 students. He previously served with the Fontana Police Department for more than 20 years, rising to the rank of lieutenant; and with the City of Colton (Calif.) Police Department for eight years.
“School safety is our most important responsibility, and we are excited to welcome Mr. Granillo as our new Chief of Security,” said Dr. Rysewyk. “Mr. Granillo brings with him extensive law enforcement experience and extensive experience working alongside a public school district. I am confident that he will build on our strong partnerships with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and Knoxville Police Department while continuing our deep commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our students, staff, and school communities.”
“I am humbled and excited to join the Knox County Schools leadership team,” said Mr. Granillo. “From my conversations with KCS leaders, it is clear they are deeply committed to the overall safety, security, and success of every student. As the new Chief of Security, I look forward to building on Superintendent Rysewyk’s and the district’s ongoing Safe Schools, Safe Students initiative. It is a privilege to have this opportunity to lead and collaborate with the dedicated professionals of the KCS Security Department as we work together to protect and support our greatest treasure – our children!”
“School Security Officers play an essential role in protecting students and staff and building a positive environment in our school communities,” said Dr. Garfield Adams, Assistant Superintendent of Operations. “I believe Mr. Granillo is the right leader for this department, and I look forward to working with him. I also want to thank Becky Wuethrich for her leadership as interim chief over the last three-and-a-half months.”
Mr. Granillo earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Illinois University. He also holds several advanced certifications in Law Enforcement, Public Safety, Management, and Leadership.
