06/08/2026
MEDIA RELEASE
DEPUTY TOMMY KIMSEY NAMED TENNESSEE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER OF THE YEAR
CLEVELAND, TN. (June 8, 2026) — The Bradley County Sheriff's Office is proud to announce that Deputy Tommy Kimsey, the School Resource Officer at Michigan Avenue School, has been named the Tennessee School Resource Officer of the Year by the Tennessee School Resource Officers Association.
This distinguished award recognizes a School Resource Officer who demonstrates excellence in school safety, student mentorship, leadership, professionalism, community involvement, and service to the students, faculty, and families they serve. Candidates are evaluated on their ability to maintain a safe learning environment, earn the trust and respect of students and staff, demonstrate leadership, support educational programs, and make a positive difference within their school and community.
Deputy Kimsey's selection reflects the dedication and professionalism he brings to his role every day. Through his leadership, service, and genuine concern for the well-being of students, he has earned the respect of students, educators, parents, and fellow law enforcement officers. His commitment to school safety and student success represents the highest standards of the School Resource Officer profession.
Sheriff Steve Lawson stated, “Deputy Tommy Kimsey being named Tennessee School Resource Officer of the Year is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the outstanding work he does. Recognitions like this remind us how important it is to retain quality deputies. When you have dedicated professionals who are making a real difference in our schools and community, you have to invest in keeping them here.”