Atlanta school district records show officers used some type of force — including pepper spray, stun guns and physical “takedowns” — in Atlanta schools 22 times last year.

The district uses contracted Atlanta police for school safety and security, but with the recent controversies over using “street” officers in classrooms, the school board is considering forming its own police force.

That would mean ending the district’s $5.6 million contract with the City of Atlanta.

Mayor Kasim Reed’s spokesman called it “a terrible decision.”

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Carleigh Knight (left) and her sister, Natalie Rogovin, look at Christmas ornaments while shopping at Kudzu Antiques + Modern in Decatur on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

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