🎄Merry Christmas from Henderson County Schools!🎄
Wishing our students, families, and staff a season full of joy, laughter, and holiday cheer. Enjoy the break and make some wonderful memories! 🎁🎅
Congratulations, Brandon Rainey!
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Brandon Rainey as the High School Principal of the Year!
A lifelong member of the Lexington High School community, Mr. Rainey was named Principal in 2024 after serving for many years as Assistant Principal. A 1998 graduate of Lexington High School, he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, along with his Instructional Leadership endorsement.
Mr. Rainey began his career in 2006 as an Economics and Business Education teacher, later serving as CTE Department Chair and coaching Track and Cross Country. In administration, he has focused on instructional leadership, student achievement, and school culture. He also oversees the district-wide Innovative Schools Model Grant, strengthening innovation and career education across Henderson County schools.
Outside of school, Mr. Rainey is married to Rebecca Armstrong Rainey, and they are the proud parents of Maci and Addie.
Please join us in celebrating Mr. Rainey’s dedication, leadership, and well-deserved honor! 🏫🎓
#PrincipalOfTheYear #HCSproud
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Brandon Rainey as the High School Principal of the Year!
A lifelong member of the Lexington High School community, Mr. Rainey was named Principal in 2024 after serving for many years as Assistant Principal. A 1998 graduate of Lexington High School, he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, along with his Instructional Leadership endorsement.
Mr. Rainey began his career in 2006 as an Economics and Business Education teacher, later serving as CTE Department Chair and coaching Track and Cross Country. In administration, he has focused on instructional leadership, student achievement, and school culture. He also oversees the district-wide Innovative Schools Model Grant, strengthening innovation and career education across Henderson County schools.
Outside of school, Mr. Rainey is married to Rebecca Armstrong Rainey, and they are the proud parents of Maci and Addie.
Please join us in celebrating Mr. Rainey’s dedication, leadership, and well-deserved honor! 🏫🎓
#PrincipalOfTheYear #HCSproud
Congratulations, Amanda Branson!
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Amanda Branson as the High School Teacher of the Year!
With 23 years in education—including 17 years at Scotts Hill High School—Mrs. Branson has made a lasting impact on students, families, and the school community. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences Education and began her teaching career at SHHS in 2003 under exceptional leadership that shaped her commitment to excellence in education.
After six years of service at South Carroll Special School District – Clarksburg School, Amanda returned to “The Hill” in 2013—a decision she considers one of the best of her career and for her family. Throughout her career, she has served as a Career & Technical Education (CTE) teacher and FCCLA advisor, leading students to remarkable success, including National FCCLA STAR Event GOLD recognition.
Her dedication has earned numerous honors and leadership roles, including National Jobs for America’s Graduates 5/5 Specialist, Clarksburg High School Teacher of the Year, Volunteer Tennessee Service Learning Grant Coordinator, and service as Softball Head and Assistant Coach, Teen Health Council sponsor, Scotts Hill Future Teacher advisor, Tennessee Scholars Coordinator, Work Ethic Distinction Contact, SHHS Media Team member, and Class of 2026 Senior Class sponsor. She is also an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma International and the Tennessee National Education Association.
Mrs. Branson is passionate about helping students explore career opportunities, build leadership skills, and understand the importance of community service. Her commitment to students and belief that every child matters truly define excellence in education.
Please join us in celebrating Amanda Branson and this well-deserved honor! 🍎🏫
#TeacherOfTheYear #HCSproud
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Amanda Branson as the High School Teacher of the Year!
With 23 years in education—including 17 years at Scotts Hill High School—Mrs. Branson has made a lasting impact on students, families, and the school community. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences Education and began her teaching career at SHHS in 2003 under exceptional leadership that shaped her commitment to excellence in education.
After six years of service at South Carroll Special School District – Clarksburg School, Amanda returned to “The Hill” in 2013—a decision she considers one of the best of her career and for her family. Throughout her career, she has served as a Career & Technical Education (CTE) teacher and FCCLA advisor, leading students to remarkable success, including National FCCLA STAR Event GOLD recognition.
Her dedication has earned numerous honors and leadership roles, including National Jobs for America’s Graduates 5/5 Specialist, Clarksburg High School Teacher of the Year, Volunteer Tennessee Service Learning Grant Coordinator, and service as Softball Head and Assistant Coach, Teen Health Council sponsor, Scotts Hill Future Teacher advisor, Tennessee Scholars Coordinator, Work Ethic Distinction Contact, SHHS Media Team member, and Class of 2026 Senior Class sponsor. She is also an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma International and the Tennessee National Education Association.
Mrs. Branson is passionate about helping students explore career opportunities, build leadership skills, and understand the importance of community service. Her commitment to students and belief that every child matters truly define excellence in education.
Please join us in celebrating Amanda Branson and this well-deserved honor! 🍎🏫
#TeacherOfTheYear #HCSproud
We hope that each of you have a wonderful Christmas Break!!
Congratulations, Jessica Austin!
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Jessica Austin as the 2025 Teacher of the Year for Grades 5–8!
Jessica teaches fifth- and sixth-grade math at South Side Elementary School, a place that holds special meaning for her. A South Side alumna herself, Jessica has dedicated 14 of her 15 years in education to the school that helped shape her—truly coming full circle as both a former student and now an outstanding educator.
A graduate of Scotts Hill High School and The University of Tennessee at Martin, Jessica has taught math in grades five through eight and continues to inspire students through her passion for learning, strong relationships, and commitment to their academic and personal growth.
Beyond the classroom, Jessica serves as Yearbook Advisor and Beta Club Advisor, giving students meaningful opportunities to lead, serve, and shine. She is deeply influenced by a family legacy of education—especially her mother, who has taught at South Side for over 40 years—and carries that same heart for service into everything she does.
Jessica’s dedication, leadership, and love for her students make her a shining example of excellence in Henderson County Schools. Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved honor! 🍎📚
#TeacherOfTheYear #HCSproud
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Jessica Austin as the 2025 Teacher of the Year for Grades 5–8!
Jessica teaches fifth- and sixth-grade math at South Side Elementary School, a place that holds special meaning for her. A South Side alumna herself, Jessica has dedicated 14 of her 15 years in education to the school that helped shape her—truly coming full circle as both a former student and now an outstanding educator.
A graduate of Scotts Hill High School and The University of Tennessee at Martin, Jessica has taught math in grades five through eight and continues to inspire students through her passion for learning, strong relationships, and commitment to their academic and personal growth.
Beyond the classroom, Jessica serves as Yearbook Advisor and Beta Club Advisor, giving students meaningful opportunities to lead, serve, and shine. She is deeply influenced by a family legacy of education—especially her mother, who has taught at South Side for over 40 years—and carries that same heart for service into everything she does.
Jessica’s dedication, leadership, and love for her students make her a shining example of excellence in Henderson County Schools. Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved honor! 🍎📚
#TeacherOfTheYear #HCSproud
Congratulations, Anyce Russell!
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Anyce Russell as the Henderson County K–4 Teacher of the Year!
Mrs. Russell has dedicated 27 years to education in Henderson County, including the past 22 years teaching Kindergarten at Pin Oak Elementary School. Over the course of her career, she has taught grades 2, 5, 7, 8, and high school, making a lasting impact on students across multiple grade levels.
A proud graduate of Lexington High School, Mrs. Russell earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude, from Freed-Hardeman University, receiving an Award of Excellence in Elementary Education. Her commitment to excellence, passion for teaching, and dedication to students have earned her this well-deserved recognition.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Russell is married to Rodney Russell Jr., Welding Instructor at TCAT Lexington. They have two wonderful children, Matthew (Melanie) and Morgan Russell, and four precious grandchildren: Brynalynn, Braylee, William, and Raelynn.
Her classroom is known for fostering a love of learning, building strong relationships, and helping each child reach their full potential. Mrs. Russell’s heart for students and families exemplifies the very best of Henderson County Schools.
Please join us in celebrating Anyce Russell and this incredible achievement! 🍎
#TeacherOfTheYear #HCSproud
Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Anyce Russell as the Henderson County K–4 Teacher of the Year!
Mrs. Russell has dedicated 27 years to education in Henderson County, including the past 22 years teaching Kindergarten at Pin Oak Elementary School. Over the course of her career, she has taught grades 2, 5, 7, 8, and high school, making a lasting impact on students across multiple grade levels.
A proud graduate of Lexington High School, Mrs. Russell earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude, from Freed-Hardeman University, receiving an Award of Excellence in Elementary Education. Her commitment to excellence, passion for teaching, and dedication to students have earned her this well-deserved recognition.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Russell is married to Rodney Russell Jr., Welding Instructor at TCAT Lexington. They have two wonderful children, Matthew (Melanie) and Morgan Russell, and four precious grandchildren: Brynalynn, Braylee, William, and Raelynn.
Her classroom is known for fostering a love of learning, building strong relationships, and helping each child reach their full potential. Mrs. Russell’s heart for students and families exemplifies the very best of Henderson County Schools.
Please join us in celebrating Anyce Russell and this incredible achievement! 🍎
#TeacherOfTheYear #HCSproud
🍁 Happy Thanksgiving from Henderson County Schools! 🍂
This season, we’re especially thankful for our amazing students, dedicated staff, supportive families, and the wonderful community that makes Henderson County such a special place to learn and grow.
We wish everyone a safe, restful, and joy-filled Thanksgiving break! 🦃💛
#Thankful #HendersonCountySchools #Gratitude
This season, we’re especially thankful for our amazing students, dedicated staff, supportive families, and the wonderful community that makes Henderson County such a special place to learn and grow.
We wish everyone a safe, restful, and joy-filled Thanksgiving break! 🦃💛
#Thankful #HendersonCountySchools #Gratitude
LHS and SHHS Named Reward Schools for the 2024-2025 School Year
Director Danny Beecham of the Henderson County School District is proud to announce that both Lexington High School and Scotts Hill High School have been named Tennessee Reward Schools for 2024–2025. This is the highest honor awarded by the Tennessee Department of Education and reflects exceptional achievement, strong student growth, and success across all student groups.
Having both high schools earn this distinction in the same year is an outstanding accomplishment. It speaks to the dedication of our educators, the hard work of our students, and the support of our families and community.
Congratulations to Lexington High School and Scotts Hill High School. Henderson County continues to demonstrate that excellence is our standard.
Director Danny Beecham of the Henderson County School District is proud to announce that both Lexington High School and Scotts Hill High School have been named Tennessee Reward Schools for 2024–2025. This is the highest honor awarded by the Tennessee Department of Education and reflects exceptional achievement, strong student growth, and success across all student groups.
Having both high schools earn this distinction in the same year is an outstanding accomplishment. It speaks to the dedication of our educators, the hard work of our students, and the support of our families and community.
Congratulations to Lexington High School and Scotts Hill High School. Henderson County continues to demonstrate that excellence is our standard.
Happy Thanksgiving from Henderson County Schools! 🦃
Students and staff will be on Thanksgiving break from November 24–28. We hope everyone takes this time to relax, enjoy time with family and friends, and reflect on all the things we’re thankful for this year.
We’re grateful to our students, staff, families, and community for making Henderson County such a special place! Have a safe, happy, and delicious Thanksgiving!
#ThanksgivingBreak #HendersonCountySchools #Grateful #Thanksgiving
Students and staff will be on Thanksgiving break from November 24–28. We hope everyone takes this time to relax, enjoy time with family and friends, and reflect on all the things we’re thankful for this year.
We’re grateful to our students, staff, families, and community for making Henderson County such a special place! Have a safe, happy, and delicious Thanksgiving!
#ThanksgivingBreak #HendersonCountySchools #Grateful #Thanksgiving
HCU BOYS SOCCER TRYOUTS ⚽️
Grizzly Basketball League
This Thanksgiving, we’re especially grateful for our amazing Roar & Soar tutors!
Our high school seniors dedicate their time, patience, and heart to helping 2nd- and 3rd-graders grow into confident readers. Thank you for making such a difference—one story at a time.
Our high school seniors dedicate their time, patience, and heart to helping 2nd- and 3rd-graders grow into confident readers. Thank you for making such a difference—one story at a time.
Henderson County Youth Leadership Explores Agriculture!
Our Henderson County Youth Leadership students had an amazing day learning all about agriculture in Henderson County and the vital role it plays in our lives and community.
A big thank you to Brian White and Brenda Mills at the UT Extension Agency and Rachel Byrd with First Farmers Co-Op for hosting our group and sharing their expertise. Your guidance made this experience both educational and inspiring!
Our Henderson County Youth Leadership students had an amazing day learning all about agriculture in Henderson County and the vital role it plays in our lives and community.
A big thank you to Brian White and Brenda Mills at the UT Extension Agency and Rachel Byrd with First Farmers Co-Op for hosting our group and sharing their expertise. Your guidance made this experience both educational and inspiring!
Henderson County Schools honors and thanks all who have served our country. Today we pause to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of our veterans. We are grateful for the freedoms we enjoy because of you.
To our staff, past students, families, and community members who have served, we appreciate you. Happy Veterans Day.
Spring Substitute Teacher Training Workshop for Henderson County Schools will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Watson Center located at 50 East Wilson Street, Lexington, TN.
🎉Henderson County Schools Principal Appreciation Month Spotlight! 🎉
Today, we’re celebrating our outstanding principal, Mr. Denny McDaniel, at the Henderson County Alternative School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know him better! 👇
📚 School Life
⭐ Favorite school tradition or event:
“Homecoming Week.”
⭐ Favorite teacher growing up:
“Mr. Billy Clark — American History.”
😄 Just for Fun
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🎤 Go-to Karaoke Song: “Sweet Home Alabama”
❤️ Personal & Reflective
⭐ Best advice about leadership:
“Be quick to listen and slow to react when making crucial decisions.” — Mr. Wilkinson
⭐ What you love most about your students and staff:
“Their resilience and ownership of decisions, and their willingness to learn and grow from their mistakes.”
🏫 Lightning Round
✈️ Dream Vacation: Hawaii
🏈 Favorite Sports Team: Alabama — Roll Tide!
We’re grateful for Mr. McDaniel’s steady leadership, compassion, and commitment to helping every student find success. His focus on growth, accountability, and encouragement makes the Alternative School a place where students and staff alike can learn, improve, and thrive. 🌟
Today, we’re celebrating our outstanding principal, Mr. Denny McDaniel, at the Henderson County Alternative School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know him better! 👇
📚 School Life
⭐ Favorite school tradition or event:
“Homecoming Week.”
⭐ Favorite teacher growing up:
“Mr. Billy Clark — American History.”
😄 Just for Fun
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🎤 Go-to Karaoke Song: “Sweet Home Alabama”
❤️ Personal & Reflective
⭐ Best advice about leadership:
“Be quick to listen and slow to react when making crucial decisions.” — Mr. Wilkinson
⭐ What you love most about your students and staff:
“Their resilience and ownership of decisions, and their willingness to learn and grow from their mistakes.”
🏫 Lightning Round
✈️ Dream Vacation: Hawaii
🏈 Favorite Sports Team: Alabama — Roll Tide!
We’re grateful for Mr. McDaniel’s steady leadership, compassion, and commitment to helping every student find success. His focus on growth, accountability, and encouragement makes the Alternative School a place where students and staff alike can learn, improve, and thrive. 🌟
🎉Henderson County Schools Principal Appreciation Month Spotlight! 🎉
Today, we’re celebrating our outstanding principal, Mr. Brandon Rainey, at Lexington High School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know him better!
📚 School Life
⭐ What’s your favorite part of the school day?
“I love to interact with our students in the hallway between classes. It brightens my day to see them laugh and genuinely enjoy their time here!”
⭐ What’s one thing students do that always makes you smile?
“When they go out of their way to help others. We have incredible students who rally around classmates from all backgrounds. To see them ‘do the right thing’ even when they think no one is watching is a pretty rewarding experience.”
⭐ Favorite school tradition or event:
“As much as Homecoming drives me crazy because I prefer order and routine, I absolutely love the amazing school spirit our students exhibit during Homecoming week. There is nothing like an LHS Homecoming Pep Rally!!”
⭐ If you could teach any class for a day:
“American History.”
⭐ What’s one thing you wish students knew about being a principal:
“The most rewarding part of being a principal is seeing your students succeed.”
⭐ Who was your favorite teacher growing up:
“I had incredible teachers during my time at LHS, some of whom are still teaching today (shout out to Ms. Shirley Wallace and Mr. Tony Bedwell)! One teacher who always stood out was Coach Tim Rogers. I admired him and wanted to be like him—he’s one of the reasons I decided to pursue a career in education.”
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🐦 Early Bird or Night Owl: My mind says night owl, but my body disagrees!
🎶 If I had a theme song:
“Eye of the Tiger—because I just never get tired of hearing that song!”
💡 Personal & Reflective
⭐ Best advice about leadership:
“Don’t be afraid to tell someone that you will have to follow up with them later when they ask you a question. Taking the time to reflect and give an appropriate response is far better than giving someone a quick reply. It can save a lot of headaches later down the road.”
⭐ What inspired you to become a principal:
“Not in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would seek a career in education, much less be the Principal of my former high school. Teachers I had as a student at LHS, along with the amazing colleagues I’ve worked with over the years, inspired me to develop a deep love and desire to help young people.”
🏫 Lightning Round
📚 Favorite subject: Anything historical or paranormal
✈️ Dream Vacation: Iceland
🎸 Hidden Talent: Play the guitar
💬 Favorite Quote: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer
😂 Pet Peeve: Improper use of the words “to” and “too” or “there” and “their”
💙 Favorite Sports Team: Go Vols!
🍗 Favorite Local Restaurant: Baja
We’re grateful for Mr. Rainey’s leadership, dedication, and heart, which make Lexington High School a place where students grow, teachers thrive, and the school community feels connected. His commitment to student success and school spirit leaves a lasting impact every day. 🐾
Today, we’re celebrating our outstanding principal, Mr. Brandon Rainey, at Lexington High School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know him better!
📚 School Life
⭐ What’s your favorite part of the school day?
“I love to interact with our students in the hallway between classes. It brightens my day to see them laugh and genuinely enjoy their time here!”
⭐ What’s one thing students do that always makes you smile?
“When they go out of their way to help others. We have incredible students who rally around classmates from all backgrounds. To see them ‘do the right thing’ even when they think no one is watching is a pretty rewarding experience.”
⭐ Favorite school tradition or event:
“As much as Homecoming drives me crazy because I prefer order and routine, I absolutely love the amazing school spirit our students exhibit during Homecoming week. There is nothing like an LHS Homecoming Pep Rally!!”
⭐ If you could teach any class for a day:
“American History.”
⭐ What’s one thing you wish students knew about being a principal:
“The most rewarding part of being a principal is seeing your students succeed.”
⭐ Who was your favorite teacher growing up:
“I had incredible teachers during my time at LHS, some of whom are still teaching today (shout out to Ms. Shirley Wallace and Mr. Tony Bedwell)! One teacher who always stood out was Coach Tim Rogers. I admired him and wanted to be like him—he’s one of the reasons I decided to pursue a career in education.”
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🐦 Early Bird or Night Owl: My mind says night owl, but my body disagrees!
🎶 If I had a theme song:
“Eye of the Tiger—because I just never get tired of hearing that song!”
💡 Personal & Reflective
⭐ Best advice about leadership:
“Don’t be afraid to tell someone that you will have to follow up with them later when they ask you a question. Taking the time to reflect and give an appropriate response is far better than giving someone a quick reply. It can save a lot of headaches later down the road.”
⭐ What inspired you to become a principal:
“Not in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would seek a career in education, much less be the Principal of my former high school. Teachers I had as a student at LHS, along with the amazing colleagues I’ve worked with over the years, inspired me to develop a deep love and desire to help young people.”
🏫 Lightning Round
📚 Favorite subject: Anything historical or paranormal
✈️ Dream Vacation: Iceland
🎸 Hidden Talent: Play the guitar
💬 Favorite Quote: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer
😂 Pet Peeve: Improper use of the words “to” and “too” or “there” and “their”
💙 Favorite Sports Team: Go Vols!
🍗 Favorite Local Restaurant: Baja
We’re grateful for Mr. Rainey’s leadership, dedication, and heart, which make Lexington High School a place where students grow, teachers thrive, and the school community feels connected. His commitment to student success and school spirit leaves a lasting impact every day. 🐾
🎉 Henderson County Schools Principal Appreciation Month Spotlight! 🎉
Today, we’re celebrating our amazing principal, Danny Leasure, at Scotts Hill Elementary School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know him better! 👇
📚 School Life
⭐ Favorite subject in school:
“Math”
⭐ Favorite teacher growing up:
“Coach Garrett – Basketball Coach and my Junior English Teacher”
⭐ If you could teach any class for a day:
“If I could teach any class for a day, it would be Biology. I love exploring the intricacies of life and ecosystems.”
❤️ Personal & Reflective
💡 Best advice about leadership:
“Surround yourself with people who challenge you, make you think, and keep you grounded.”
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🐦 Early Bird or Night Owl: Early Bird
🏫 Bonus “Lightning Round”
📚 Favorite Book: Anything written by John Grisham
💙 Favorite Sports Team: Memphis Tigers
We’re so grateful for Danny’s leadership, heart, and approachable spirit that make Scotts Hill Elementary School a place where students and staff feel supported, inspired, and valued every day!
Today, we’re celebrating our amazing principal, Danny Leasure, at Scotts Hill Elementary School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know him better! 👇
📚 School Life
⭐ Favorite subject in school:
“Math”
⭐ Favorite teacher growing up:
“Coach Garrett – Basketball Coach and my Junior English Teacher”
⭐ If you could teach any class for a day:
“If I could teach any class for a day, it would be Biology. I love exploring the intricacies of life and ecosystems.”
❤️ Personal & Reflective
💡 Best advice about leadership:
“Surround yourself with people who challenge you, make you think, and keep you grounded.”
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🐦 Early Bird or Night Owl: Early Bird
🏫 Bonus “Lightning Round”
📚 Favorite Book: Anything written by John Grisham
💙 Favorite Sports Team: Memphis Tigers
We’re so grateful for Danny’s leadership, heart, and approachable spirit that make Scotts Hill Elementary School a place where students and staff feel supported, inspired, and valued every day!
Delta Kappa Gamma International Omicron Chapter Awards $250 Literacy Project Donation to Westover Educator
The Omicron Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma International proudly awarded a $250 Literacy Project Donation to Elizabeth Vineyard, educator at Westover Elementary School. The Omicron Chapter is honored to partner with the Henderson County School District in support of literacy and local education initiatives. This initiative reflects the Omicron Chapter’s continued commitment to giving back to local schools and upholding Delta Kappa Gamma’s mission to promote literacy and empower women in education. In addition, Mr. Danny Beecham, Director of Schools, was the guest speaker for the October meeting.
Pictured above (left to right): Elizabeth Vineyard, Director of Schools Danny Beecham, and DKG Omicron Chapter President Amanda Branson.
The Omicron Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma International proudly awarded a $250 Literacy Project Donation to Elizabeth Vineyard, educator at Westover Elementary School. The Omicron Chapter is honored to partner with the Henderson County School District in support of literacy and local education initiatives. This initiative reflects the Omicron Chapter’s continued commitment to giving back to local schools and upholding Delta Kappa Gamma’s mission to promote literacy and empower women in education. In addition, Mr. Danny Beecham, Director of Schools, was the guest speaker for the October meeting.
Pictured above (left to right): Elizabeth Vineyard, Director of Schools Danny Beecham, and DKG Omicron Chapter President Amanda Branson.
🎉Henderson County Schools Principal Appreciation Month Spotlight! 🎉
Today, we’re celebrating our amazing principal, Mrs. Renee Maynard, at Westover Elementary School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know her better! 👇
📚 School Life
⭐ If you could teach any class for a day, which one would it be?
“If I could teach any class for a day, it would be Reading.”
⭐ Who was your favorite teacher growing up?
“My favorite teacher growing up was Mr. Gene Milam.”
⭐ What’s your favorite school tradition or event?
“The 8th Grade Meal and Walk is incredibly special to me. We’ve watched these students grow (many since Pre-K), and seeing them make that final stroll down our hallways always brings me to tears. A million memories rush through my mind in those moments. It’s so hard to let them go, but my heart swells with pride knowing they’re ready to spread their wings and fly.”
❤️ Personal & Reflective
💡 What inspired you to become a principal?
“My inspiration to become a principal came from a deep desire to provide for teachers and students what I needed when I was in the classroom. I was a squirrely, squirmy kid who couldn’t pay attention, be quiet, or be still. I had big emotions and carried a lot of fear. No matter what my parents did to lift me up, I never truly believed in myself. There was always someone smarter, prettier, faster, stronger — and I often felt invisible.
I became an educator because I never wanted another child to feel that way. I wanted every student to be seen, to feel important, and to know that they matter. I wanted to lead by example — to show that even the fidgety, fiery ones can grow into confident leaders who make a difference.
I loved my time in the classroom, but my heart kept calling me to reach further ... to have a broader impact on more teachers, more students, and more lives. That’s what being a principal allows me to do every single day.”
⭐ A Favorite Memory:
“One of my favorite memories happened during prom when two very special students were crowned Prom King and Queen. The moment they stepped onto the dance floor, it was like the whole world lit up. They danced with pure joy. For the rest of the night, they were literally walking on sunshine, and it was impossible not to be swept up in their excitement.”
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🐦 Early Bird or Night Owl: Early Bird
🏫 Bonus “Lightning Round”
📚 Favorite Book: Karen Kingsbury Redemption Collection
✈️ Dream Vacation: Lazy days on the White River
🎭 Hidden Talent: “I can spin out of a jacket at the speed of a small white foreign car!”
💬 Favorite Quote: “Talent is God-given — be humble. Fame is man-given — be grateful. Conceit is self-given — be careful.” – John Wooden
😂 Pet Peeve: Being late or slow cars in the fast lane
💙 Favorite Sports Team: Kentucky Wildcats — GO BIG BLUE!
🍗 Favorite Local Restaurant: ZAXBY’S, Baby!
We’re grateful for Mrs. Maynard’s dedication, perseverance, and commitment to doing what’s best for students and staff every day. Her strong work ethic and focus on helping Westover Elementary continue to grow make a lasting impact on the school community.
Today, we’re celebrating our amazing principal, Mrs. Renee Maynard, at Westover Elementary School, by asking a few fun questions to get to know her better! 👇
📚 School Life
⭐ If you could teach any class for a day, which one would it be?
“If I could teach any class for a day, it would be Reading.”
⭐ Who was your favorite teacher growing up?
“My favorite teacher growing up was Mr. Gene Milam.”
⭐ What’s your favorite school tradition or event?
“The 8th Grade Meal and Walk is incredibly special to me. We’ve watched these students grow (many since Pre-K), and seeing them make that final stroll down our hallways always brings me to tears. A million memories rush through my mind in those moments. It’s so hard to let them go, but my heart swells with pride knowing they’re ready to spread their wings and fly.”
❤️ Personal & Reflective
💡 What inspired you to become a principal?
“My inspiration to become a principal came from a deep desire to provide for teachers and students what I needed when I was in the classroom. I was a squirrely, squirmy kid who couldn’t pay attention, be quiet, or be still. I had big emotions and carried a lot of fear. No matter what my parents did to lift me up, I never truly believed in myself. There was always someone smarter, prettier, faster, stronger — and I often felt invisible.
I became an educator because I never wanted another child to feel that way. I wanted every student to be seen, to feel important, and to know that they matter. I wanted to lead by example — to show that even the fidgety, fiery ones can grow into confident leaders who make a difference.
I loved my time in the classroom, but my heart kept calling me to reach further ... to have a broader impact on more teachers, more students, and more lives. That’s what being a principal allows me to do every single day.”
⭐ A Favorite Memory:
“One of my favorite memories happened during prom when two very special students were crowned Prom King and Queen. The moment they stepped onto the dance floor, it was like the whole world lit up. They danced with pure joy. For the rest of the night, they were literally walking on sunshine, and it was impossible not to be swept up in their excitement.”
☕ Coffee or Sweet Tea: Coffee
🐦 Early Bird or Night Owl: Early Bird
🏫 Bonus “Lightning Round”
📚 Favorite Book: Karen Kingsbury Redemption Collection
✈️ Dream Vacation: Lazy days on the White River
🎭 Hidden Talent: “I can spin out of a jacket at the speed of a small white foreign car!”
💬 Favorite Quote: “Talent is God-given — be humble. Fame is man-given — be grateful. Conceit is self-given — be careful.” – John Wooden
😂 Pet Peeve: Being late or slow cars in the fast lane
💙 Favorite Sports Team: Kentucky Wildcats — GO BIG BLUE!
🍗 Favorite Local Restaurant: ZAXBY’S, Baby!
We’re grateful for Mrs. Maynard’s dedication, perseverance, and commitment to doing what’s best for students and staff every day. Her strong work ethic and focus on helping Westover Elementary continue to grow make a lasting impact on the school community.
