Longview ISD has named Benjamin Kemper as the District’s new Chief of District Safety, effective November 3, 2025, following unanimous approval by the Board of Trustees in open session.
A 1993 graduate of Longview High School, Chief Kemper returns to his alma mater after nearly twenty-four years with the Longview Police Department, where he most recently served as Assistant Chief. His career spans leadership in patrol, investigations, and special operations — including commanding the SWAT Team and overseeing the Operations Bureau.
Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard said Chief Kemper’s selection reflects the District’s commitment to proactive, relationship-driven safety practices.
“Chief Kemper understands that safety is not only about preparation, it is about people,” Dr. Sheppard said. “He brings deep experience, calm leadership, and a sincere belief that trust and teamwork make schools stronger.”
Chief Kemper holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Oklahoma. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy (Session 261) and the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration Management College (Session 48), and holds a Master Peace Officer Certificate from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
For now, he will oversee all district safety operations while Longview ISD completes the TCOLE certification process required to formally establish the Longview ISD Police Department, after which he will assume the title of Chief of Police.
Chief Kemper said his first priority is to build strong connections across every campus.
“True safety isn’t about locked doors or security cameras. It’s about peace of mind,” he said. “Our mission is to create an environment where the only thing students need to worry about is being the best version of themselves.”
Over the coming months, he will visit every campus alongside district leadership to meet principals, staff, and students, emphasizing listening and collaboration as the foundation of his first ninety days on the job.
“The best safety programs are built from the ground up,” Kemper said. “I want to hear directly from the people who know our schools best: our teachers, students, and administrators.”
A lifelong Lobo, Kemper’s ties to the district run deep. His wife is also a Longview High graduate, and his mother retired from the District after a long career of service.
“This place shaped me,” he said. “To come back and help protect the same classrooms and hallways where I grew up is an incredible honor. I’m excited to get to work.”
Public events and opportunities for families to meet Chief Kemper are planned in the weeks ahead. Details will be announced on the District’s website and social media channels.