HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Tom Bell attended his final Board of Education meeting Thursday night as he formally announced his resignation, effective immediately. CCPS will now have to go through the process of filling a vacancy.

“I love Christian County, and I love CCPS,” said Bell during a statement at the meeting. “Thank you to the citizens of Christian County for your support and prayers. I am making this decision for personal reasons.”

Mr. Bell served Christian County Schools for district five for the past 12 years and was first elected in 2014. This district includes the west side of the city of Hopkinsville and Christian County. At the top of the meeting, Bell announced an addition to the agenda, which was the approval of the resignation of a board member. His family was in attendance during the meeting to offer their support.

He went on to thank his fellow board members both past and present, his family, administrators and Superintendent Chris Bentzel. Bell said, “My mother always told me it was about getting the work done. My father always said it is not about what people call you or say about you. My motto is, and always will be, ‘kids first.'”

As far as next steps, board attorney Jack Lackey explained that board members will discuss the process to fill the vacant seat during the next meeting. While no timeline has been set at this time, candidates will be able to apply for the seat, and board members will choose who finish the term through the end of 2026 and another chair will be appointed.

The district five seat was on the ballot for this year, with the general election taking place in November. Tom Bell had not filed for re-election prior to his resignation.

“We appreciate all Mr. Bell has done for the advancement of Christian County Public Schools,” said Superintendent Chris Bentzel. “We want to thank him for serving on the Board for 12 years and wish Mr. Bell the very best in his next endeavor.”

The announcement came just hours after CCPS cut the ribbon on the new Christian County High School.

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