Liberty Hill Independent School District Board of Trustees is thrilled to announce Jonathan Gardner as the new Chief of Police for the Liberty Hill ISD Police Department.

Gardner brings more than two decades of military service, over 16 years of leadership experience, and more than eight years of school-based law enforcement in Texas educational settings. He currently serves as Sergeant with the Liberty Hill ISD Police Department, where he provides first-line supervisory leadership, mentors officers, coordinates critical incident response, and works closely with district and campus administrators to strengthen school safety initiatives.

Prior to joining Liberty Hill ISD, Gardner served as a school district police officer with Pflugerville ISD and held law enforcement roles with the Greensboro Police Department, the United States Army Reserve, and federal security agencies. His background includes extensive experience in emergency preparedness, multi-agency coordination, officer development, and prevention-focused policing.

Gardner holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration and an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix. He is a Master Peace Officer and holds numerous advanced certifications, including TCOLE Basic Instructor, Field Training Officer, Mental Health Officer, and Advanced School-Based Law Enforcement Certification.

As Chief of Police, Gardner will lead the district’s police department and continue working with students, staff, families, and community partners to maintain safe and supportive learning environments across Liberty Hill ISD. “I am truly honored and excited to step into this new role and continue serving the students, staff, and families of Liberty Hill ISD,” said Gardner. “Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of working alongside an outstanding group of officers, district leaders, and campus staff who are committed to safety, service, and building strong relationships within our school community. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue that work and look forward to helping lead the department as we grow and meet the needs of our district.” 

Chief Gardner and his wife Alexis have three children, Jeremiah (16), Jamahri (15), and Jace (8) in Liberty Hill ISD. Alexis serves as the executive assistant for the lead pastor at the Grove Church. In his free time, Gardner is all about the Georgia Bulldogs! He enjoys all things Georgia and loves watching movies. Liberty Hill ISD is honored to have Chief Gardner leading our police department and caring for student and staff safety each and every day.