ABOVE VIDEO:Rockledge High School Resource Officer Chris Hattaway learns he was named the 2026 Florida School‑Related Employee of the Year, the highest recognition in the state and a historic first for Brevard Public Schools.
Brevard Public Schools announced that School Resource Officer at Rockledge High School Chris Hattaway, center, has been named the 2026 Florida School-Related Employee of the Year by the Florida Department of Education. Officer Hattaway, previously named the district’s 2025–2026 Employee of the Year, now carries that recognition to the state’s highest level — representing Brevard Public Schools and Florida’s entire school-related workforce.
BREVARD COUNTY • ROCKLEDGE, FLORIDA – Rockledge High School Resource Officer Chris Hattaway was named this week the 2026 Florida School-Related Employee of the Year by the Florida Department of Education.
The annual award honors one school-related employee in the state whose service reflects exceptional excellence, dedication, and commitment to students.
Officer Hattaway, previously named the district’s 2025–2026 Employee of the Year, now carries that recognition to the state’s highest level — representing Brevard Public Schools and Florida’s entire school-related workforce.
“Officer Hattaway has built trust on his campus through hard work, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to the young people he serves. He is a credit to Rockledge High School, to our district, and to the state of Florida,” said Dr. Mark Rendell, Superintendent of Brevard Public Schools.
“This honor reflects what we strive for every day in Brevard Public Schools: dedicated professionals who put students first and treat their work as a calling, not just a job,” said Dr. Mark Rendell, Superintendent of Brevard Public Schools.
“Officer Hattaway has built trust on his campus through hard work, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to the young people he serves. He is a credit to Rockledge High School, to our district, and to the state of Florida.”
“Our schools are stronger because of leaders like Officer Chris Hattaway,” said Gene Trent, Brevard Public Schools Board Member, District 2.
“He has shown that true school safety goes beyond a uniform — it’s about building trust, mentoring young people, and being a steady presence students can rely on. The School Board is incredibly proud to see his work recognized at the highest level in our state.”
Brevard Public Schools (BPS) is proud to announce that Officer Chris Hattaway, School Resource Officer at Rockledge High School, has been named the 2026 Florida School-Related Employee of the Year by the Florida Department of Education.
A proud Rockledge High School alumnus, Officer Hattaway has become a trusted mentor and leader on the same campus where he was once a student.
His approach to school safety is rooted in connection, compassion, and prevention — meeting students where they are and helping them thrive both academically and personally.
Among his many contributions, Officer Hattaway helped establish “Rocking Resilience,” a voluntary lunchtime program, in partnership with a local mental health organization, that provides students with tools to navigate social and emotional challenges in a supportive setting.
He also introduced K9 Trusty, the district’s first therapy dog, whose presence has fostered comfort, connection, and a sense of belonging throughout the school community.
Beyond the school day, Officer Hattaway created a free summer camp for incoming and at-risk students, offering mentorship and exposure to community resources while helping them transition successfully into high school.
During the holiday season, he coordinates community support to provide gifts for more than 500 students, ensuring families feel cared for during the most meaningful times of year.
Through his tireless dedication, Officer Hattaway has helped cultivate a positive campus culture where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed. Colleagues consistently praise his humility, leadership, and genuine care for the Raider community.
Brevard Public Schools congratulates Officer Chris Hattaway on this historic statewide honor and thanks him for the lasting difference he continues to make for students, families, and the Rockledge High School community.
