Veteran Law Enforcement Leader Stephen McEuen Named Bay District Schools Chief of Police

Bay District Schools has named veteran law enforcement officer Stephen McEuen as its new Chief of Police. McEuen will officially join the district on July 15, 2026, bringing extensive experience to Bay District Schools.

Throughout his nearly 30-year law enforcement career, McEuen has served in leadership, training, investigative, patrol, community policing, and school safety roles with both the Bay County Sheriff's Office and Panama City Police Department. Most recently, he managed the Bay County Sheriff's Office Guardian Program and instructed future law enforcement officers at the Gulf Coast State College Police Academy, where he has been for more than 20 years.

As Chief of Police, McEuen will oversee the Bay District Schools Police Department and work closely with the district's School Safety Department to help ensure a safe, secure, and welcoming learning environment for more than 27,000 students and thousands of employees across Bay County.

"One of our greatest responsibilities is ensuring our students and employees feel safe every time they walk through our doors," said Superintendent Mark McQueen. "Chief McEuen has spent his career protecting this community and building relationships that make people feel secure. He understands our schools, shares our commitment to serving others, and will be an outstanding addition to our leadership team as we continue making Bay District Schools the best choice for families."

"His experience speaks for itself," said Vern Barth, Director of School Safety for Bay District Schools. "From supervising officers and training future law enforcement professionals to managing the Guardian Program and serving as a school resource deputy, Chief McEuen has dedicated his career to protecting others. He understands schools and this community, and we're excited to welcome him to our safety team. I know he'll make an immediate impact."

McEuen is a certified Florida law enforcement officer and instructor with extensive certifications in firearms instruction, active shooter response, defensive tactics, vehicle operations, use-of-force training, and emergency response. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his commitment to officer training, community policing, and school safety.

"I'm honored to join Bay District Schools in this new role," said McEuen. "School safety is about building relationships, preparing for every situation, and creating an environment where students and employees feel safe every day. I look forward to working alongside our administrators, staff, law enforcement partners, and families as we continue building on the district's strong commitment to school safety."