From “CHiPs” Fan to School Safety Leader: Meet Officer Paul Levajac
photo courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Most kids grew up watching superheroes on Saturday morning cartoons. For Paul Levajac, the real heroes were the ones on motorcycles in the hit show CHiPs and the local officers who made sure he got to school safely every morning.
Today, Officer Levajac isn’t just watching the heroes—he’s leading the charge for student safety as a Special Law Enforcement Officer (SLEO) Class III at Ridgewood High School.
A Career Built on Community Roots
A lifelong resident of North Haledon, Paul’s journey into law enforcement was fueled by a desire to provide the same sense of security he felt as a child. After earning his degree from the prestigious John Jay College of Criminal Justice, he returned to his roots.
For 25 years, Officer Levajac served the North Haledon patrol division, becoming a fixture in the community and a trusted face on the streets. But as any parent knows, the biggest career shift happens at home.
The “Dad” Perspective on School Safety
While his resume is impressive, Paul cites his most important title as “Dad” to his three-year-old daughter, Samantha.
“Having a daughter made me realize how vital a police presence is in our schools. Samantha recently told me she wants to be a police officer when she grows up, and that inspired me to bring my 25 years of experience back into the classroom setting.”
Why Officer Levajac is at Ridgewood High
Now, as one of three retired officers serving Ridgewood Public Schools, Paul is focused on more than just security—he’s focused on mentorship. His goal is to ensure that every student and staff member feels the same safety and peace of mind he felt walking to school as a young boy.
By fostering a positive environment, Officer Levajac allows students to focus on what matters most: learning, growing, and achieving their dreams.
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Tags: #RidgewoodSchools #SchoolSafety #CommunityPolicing #LawEnforcement #RidgewoodHigh #StudentWellness
# of Days Suspended: 180
Sustained Charge: Performance of duty, obedience to rules and body worn camera policy
Description: Officer Levajac was dispatched to a medical call where he failed to properly respond. Officer Levajac never entered the residence and did not complete a patient observation, patient assessment or render any care to the patient. Officer Levajac did not activate the agency’s Body Worn Camera when dispatched and certain portions of his Body Worn Camera video from the call were muted and or not
recorded.
Does learning, growing, and achieving dreams happens while under constant surveillance?
This is great, now let’s get armed officers in ALL our elementary schools in Ridgewood.
Qualified teachers should be allowed to conceal carry.
After 9-11 we allowed properly trained pilots to carry in the cockpit with great results. ZERO hijacking of US airlines since policy implementation
how could anyone vote thumbs down unless your a libtard who moved here from new york
Because I went to Rhs and know my teachers, some of which drank during the day, I would not trust with a gun. Put police in the schools. But I don’t trust the teachers with guns.
John Jay prestigious?????
You gotta be kidding.