Staying Safe with Hingham’s Elementary Safety Officer Katelin McGillicuddy

November 23, 2020 by Gabrielle S. Martin

Katelin McGillicuddy serves the community as Safety Officer for Hingham's elementary schools. Safety Officer McGillicuddy is married with two children, ages three and one; she also owns an old English bulldog.

She grew up here in Hingham. After attending Sacred Heart University for her undergraduate studies, and then Curry College for her Masters in Criminal Justice, she returned to the 02043. McGillocuddy says she loves "the quaintness of the town," specifically citing Hingham's blend of "lots of history with lots of new restaurants and shopping." Aside from the extensive options of eateries and beautiful Bay State boutiques, she appreciates Hingham's proximity to, well, "everything."

As she says, "[It's the] best-of-both worlds suburbs."

We wanted to highlight her extensive efforts to keep our children safe through educating them about an assortment of safety and wellness-related topics by featuring Katelin McGillicuddy as our latest Human of Hingham. We believe everybody has a story to share: here is hers.

Hingham, meet Katelin.

What's your favorite local spot around town?

"For a quick lunch, I love Crow Point; however, Café Tosca is one of my favorites for dinner."

If you had a different career, what would it be?

"Before becoming a police officer I was an event planner. Completely different career, however, it was a lot of fun!"

Do you have a hidden talent? If so, what is it?

"Not sure if considered a talent," she says, "but some may not know I love playing hockey and did so throughout college." That certainly counts in my book!

What’s your favorite vacation spot for when you need a getaway?

"I love going to Cape Cod when we have free time, but anywhere on the beach is my favorite getaway."

What's one thing people may not know about you?

"I come from a family background of law enforcement."

Can you describe your official role and title?

"I am the Safety Officer for the elementary schools. I go from school to school and am able to speak to the students and give them safety tips; anything from good stranger/bad stranger as well as assisting with personal family issues that students may be dealing with."

Talk to me about your time as School Resource Officer!

"I started back in December as the new SRO; unfortunately with COVID. the year ended sooner than planned but I was able to join the schools back this new school year."

What's your favorite part of your workday?

"Seeing all of the kids while walking through the schools and the different activities that they are working on!"

What's the best part of your job?

"Getting to see the kids every day and their smiles, whether it be in school or out in a store! For the most part, the kids get excited to see police officers."

Any safety tips or tricks you'd like to share? Advice, words of wisdom?

"Be kind, you never know what someone else is going through every day! Kindness goes a long way!