From Student to Steward: Matthew Etheredge's Journey Back to Tomball ISD
Matthew Etheredge has dedicated his professional career to serving others and protecting those who live in the community that raised him.
A 14-year veteran in law enforcement and a 2001 graduate of Tomball High School, Etheredge has served the entirety of his career as a Deputy with the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. 2023 marked the first year he joined the School Resource Officer Division for TISD, assisting Northpointe Intermediate as its School Resource Officer (SRO).
As a student in Tomball, Etheredge attended Tomball Junior High and THS where he participated in band and took advantage of early work release through the THS Co-Op program. His interest in law enforcement was heightened by his friends’ experiences.
“After high school, I wanted a job where I could be of assistance to the public,” said Etheredge. “I had made several friends who were employed in law enforcement who believed I had the right demeanor, so I applied for the Academy.”
Etheredge completed the Police Academy in just over five months and quickly became immersed in the opportunities to serve.
“As a Deputy on patrol or as a School Resource Officer, I know I can make a difference in someone’s life, and that alone is an award in itself,” said Etheredge.
Tomball ISD and Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office reached an agreement in 2023 to expand its School Resource Officer (SRO) Division, and Etheredge was able to return to his hometown and begin a new adventure in his career at NIS.
“I must admit I was excited when I found out I had been chosen to work for the District I grew up in,” he said. “As soon as my department was informed that we would be working with Tomball ISD, I immediately put my letter of intent in to be considered for the position.”
Being a School Resource Officer, Etheredge has the ability to directly impact students by providing a constant level of support and creating an environment where students can feel comfortable having a conversation with a police officer.
“I want students that I serve to know I am here for them and would hope they would feel comfortable enough to approach me without hesitation,” said Etheredge.
Building trust on campus, and pride within the community in which he serves allowed Etheredge to thrive and truly impact Tomball ISD as a valued member of Team Tomball.
“Since working in a school environment, I have learned a lot from the staff on how procedures work within the school,” he said. “I hope to continue my growth with the knowledge I have from my law enforcement career to assist the Northpointe Intermediate team.”
Etheredge’s commitment to student safety has also brought back a lot of great memories of his time as a student in Tomball ISD.
“I remember watching this campus being built, and I may be a little biased but I’ve always said Tomball ISD is the best school district in the Houston area, and now I’m fortunate enough to be a part of it once again. I’m truly invested in this community and want to give back to the school district who made me who I am today.”
Source: Tomball ISD
