Hartman Elementary Security Guard Returns to His Roots

The rainbows and crayon drawings that once adorned the walls remain, yet so much has transformed in the four decades since Philip Jones roamed the halls as a student at Hartman Elementary. Now serving as the campus security guard, Jones fondly reflects on his own experiences at Hartman.

“The building has really changed so much,” Jones said. “The only places that seem to be the same are the cafeteria and the gym.”

Jones’ fondest memories at Hartman are of the educators who he says “cared more than they had to.”

“My teachers at Hartman were dedicated and loved me through my difficult times and helped me become the person I am today,” Jones said. “They encouraged me to become a better student, citizen, and human.”

Two of his former teachers at Hartman especially made a lasting impact on him by seeing his potential.

“Mrs. Butler and Mrs. Williams were my favorite teachers at Hartman,” Jones said. “They were there when I needed a teacher to encourage me. They listened to what my heart was trying to say, and they encouraged me to keep doing my personal best.”

Nancy Butler has retired but returns to substitute teach. She recalls Philip as hard-working and said he always tried his best.

“Philip was a fun student,” Butler said. “His parents were great, too. They were always so helpful and very supportive of a young teacher just starting out. It has been a pleasure seeing Philip while I sub at Hartman.”

Jones is grateful to his school counselor at Hartman for guiding him toward a path of service.

“I remember Ms. [Coty] Anderson saw my heart and how helpful I was, and she placed me in a peer buddy group to help young students and new students at Hartman,” he said.

To help kids become safe and security conscious, Jones created and implemented the Cool Cat Safety Award this school year. Teachers nominate students who they’ve witnessed doing acts involving safety or security. Jones selects the winners to be recognized at the Cool Cat Award Ceremony. 

“I love kids and want to help them to be the best version of themselves,” Jones said. “In doing that, they will be more able to say something to faculty, security and law enforcement when they see something that is out of place. I am very much invested in Wylie ISD and will do anything, within the rules, to keep it safe.”

Jones’ role as the Hartman security guard allows him to continue to serve by keeping a watchful eye on all of the Cool Cats, but his commitment extends far beyond his daily occupation. He said he and his wife, Dawn, also love to serve at their local church.

After graduating from Wylie High School in 1997, Jones went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in organizational security and management from the University of Phoenix, and he has served in some form of security for more than 20 years.

“I have a passion for keeping people safe,” Jones said. “To be able to give back to my hometown by helping keep our future Pirates and Raiders safe is a dream come true.”