Pinellas County Schools Police Department announced the recipients of its 2025-2026 police and safety officer awards on May 22. The awards were presented by Police Chief Joe Wiesman during the School Board meeting held on May 19.
The annual recognition honors officers and campus support staff for their efforts to protect students and staff, as well as for fostering positive learning environments. School leaders nominated individuals who demonstrated high standards in school safety and embodied the district’s Core Values.
Retired officer Michael A. Hawkins, after whom the School Resource Officer of the Year Award is named, attended the ceremony to support this year’s winners. Superintendent Kevin Hendrick said, “We thank all of our resource officers, our school safety officers, and our campus activity monitors for the work they do each and every day.”
Chief Wiesman shared accolades for this year’s honorees:
Maurice Blossom received the Michael A. Hawkins School Resource Officer of the Year Award for his leadership at James B. Sanderlin K-8 IB World School. According to Wiesman’s remarks, Blossom brings calm leadership, compassion, and commitment to student safety while building trusting relationships with students across grade levels.
Andrew Stimus was recognized as School Safety Officer of the Year at San Jose Elementary School for his dedication to student well-being and proactive approach to campus security. His supportive connections with students on the Autism Spectrum were noted as especially meaningful.
Patrick Walton earned the Jesse Dorsey Campus Activities Monitor of the Year Award at Boca Ciega High School for his professionalism and decisive actions that prevented a potentially dangerous situation during an athletic event.
Pinellas County Schools enriches community life by promoting academic achievement, innovation and student development; it maintains an extensive network of facilities serving students throughout Pinellas County; operates under an elected School Board; runs 144 schools ranking ninth-largest in Florida; focuses on preparing students for college, careers and life; and offers a diverse selection of magnet programs according to the official website.
The district’s continued emphasis on recognizing exemplary service highlights its commitment to safe learning environments.