2026-2027 School Calendar - Henderson County Schools
Henderson County Board of Education Holds January 2026 Meeting
The Henderson County Board of Education met on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at South Haven Elementary School. In addition to other agenda items, the Board recognized outstanding educators across the district, honoring Principal of the Year Brandon Rainey of Lexington High School and Teachers of the Year: Anyce Russell (Pre-K–4th, Pin Oak Elementary), Jessica Austin (5th–8th, South Side Elementary), and Amanda Branson (9th–12th, Scotts Hill High School).
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our schools!
Spring Substitute 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 Natchez Trace Dr., Lexington, TN.
Congratulations, Hailey Johnson – Novice Teacher of the Year!
Henderson County School District is proud to recognize Hailey Johnson as our Novice Teacher of the Year! This honor celebrates early-career educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication, instructional excellence, and a positive impact on students—and Hailey truly embodies all of these qualities.
Hailey is currently in her fourth year of teaching at Bargerton Elementary School and is a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She is married to her husband, Channing Johnson, and together they have two children, Jake and Heidi. Being both a teacher and a parent has deepened Hailey’s passion for education and strengthened her commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of her students.
Throughout her career, Hailey has already achieved impressive milestones, including being named Bargerton Elementary School Teacher of the Year for the 2024–2025 school year, earning Level 5 teacher status for two consecutive years, and serving as the Henderson County 4th Grade Math Lead Teacher. In this leadership role, she has guided professional development and facilitated grade-level meetings, supporting both student success and teacher growth.
Hailey is known for building meaningful relationships with her students, fostering confidence, and celebrating both big and small successes in the classroom. Her dedication, leadership, and heart for teaching make her a shining example of excellence in education.
Congratulations, Hailey! We are incredibly proud of you and grateful for the impact you make every day at Bargerton Elementary and across Henderson County Schools.
Henderson County School District is proud to recognize Hailey Johnson as our Novice Teacher of the Year! This honor celebrates early-career educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication, instructional excellence, and a positive impact on students—and Hailey truly embodies all of these qualities.
Hailey is currently in her fourth year of teaching at Bargerton Elementary School and is a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She is married to her husband, Channing Johnson, and together they have two children, Jake and Heidi. Being both a teacher and a parent has deepened Hailey’s passion for education and strengthened her commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of her students.
Throughout her career, Hailey has already achieved impressive milestones, including being named Bargerton Elementary School Teacher of the Year for the 2024–2025 school year, earning Level 5 teacher status for two consecutive years, and serving as the Henderson County 4th Grade Math Lead Teacher. In this leadership role, she has guided professional development and facilitated grade-level meetings, supporting both student success and teacher growth.
Hailey is known for building meaningful relationships with her students, fostering confidence, and celebrating both big and small successes in the classroom. Her dedication, leadership, and heart for teaching make her a shining example of excellence in education.
Congratulations, Hailey! We are incredibly proud of you and grateful for the impact you make every day at Bargerton Elementary and across Henderson County Schools.
Grizzlies Basketball League starts Saturday, January 10th @ 8 am. Games will be played at Bargerton Elementary School. Come out and enjoy some basketball.
Admission $2
2026 Henderson County United Boys Soccer Team
Wishing the entire Henderson County School District a Happy New Year!
May the year ahead be filled with continued success, growth, and opportunities for our students, staff, and families. Thank you for all you do to support excellence in education—here’s to a great year ahead!
May the year ahead be filled with continued success, growth, and opportunities for our students, staff, and families. Thank you for all you do to support excellence in education—here’s to a great year ahead!
🎄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!
