Towns County School District SRO

Beginning with the 2013 school year, Sheriff Chris Clinton implemented the CHAMPS program to replace the DARE program at Towns County Elementary School.

While the DARE program was successful, the sheriff felt the drug education program should be adjusted to more closely address the drug education needs of today's children.

CHAMPS is an acronym for Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety. The CHAMPS program was founded in 2003 by the Georgia Sheriffs' Association to address the dangers students face today that older generations could not have imagined. The mission of the CHAMPS program is, "To provide an educational program for Georgia's youth, which provides guidance, and the skills, ability, and knowledge to be safe, healthy, and happy in preparation for a successful life" (Georgia Sheriffs' Association). Below are some of the classes taught through the CHAMPS program:

Drug resistance - Alcohol Resistance - Peer pressure

Choices and consequences - Leaders and followers - Bullying

internet safety - Gun safety - Hunting safety - ATV safety

Get tips for driving in snow and ice.

Click It or Ticket

Get Safe Driving Tips for Teens

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Bryan Forsyth
Middle School/High School SRO - CHAMPS Instructor
706.896.4131 EXT:1237

My name is Bryan Forsyth so a little about my law enforcement career. I have been in public safety for 11+ years. Throughout my career I have served as a Corrections Officer , Deputy Sheriff, Civil Process Deputy , and Patrol Sergeant. I have held a Supervisor role in law enforcement for the last 4 years. I have also assisted in many other roles such as assisting narcotics with day to day operations.

Zach Shelnut
Towns County Elementary School SRO
706.896.4131 EXT:2141

Deputy Zach Shelnut is a dedicated law enforcement officer with a background in military service. He served as a Cavalry Scout in the Georgia Army National Guard from 2016 to 2022 and continues his military career as a Combat Medic in the United States Army Reserve.
He began his law enforcement career in 2019 with the Gwinnett County Police Department and later served with the Banks County and Habersham County Sheriff’s Offices before joining the Towns County Sheriff’s Office in January 2025.
As School Resource Officer, Deputy Shelnut is committed to maintaining a safe and positive learning environment for all students and staff. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and training working dogs.