HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Christian County Public Schools Superintendent Chris Bentzel announced Clayton Sumner as the director of school safety beginning Jan. 6. Sumner is a seasoned law enforcement professional and is the former chief of police for the Hopkinsville Police Department.
“Mr. Sumner’s extensive experience in law enforcement and dedication to safety makes him the ideal candidate to lead in this critical role,” said Bentzel. “With the board’s decision to establish our own internal police division, his expertise will be essential in advancing our efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, staff and campuses.”
Sumner brings over 20 years of service in law enforcement, including more than eight years as the chief of the Hopkinsville Police Department, according to a news release from CCPS. In his role as chief, he managed over 100 sworn officers and civilian employees as well as the Emergency Operations Center. He graduated from Murray State University, and holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in integrated studies. Sumner is also a graduate of Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course at the University of Louisville and the Department of Criminal Justice Training at Eastern Kentucky University.
“After more than 20 years of law enforcement experience serving the City of Hopkinsville, I am honored to join the Christian County Public School System,” said Sumner. “As the director of school safety, I am excited to lead in the development and implementation of the Christian County Public Schools Police Department while continuing programs to ensure the well-being and security of our students, staff, and schools.”