HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Susan Burton, Communications Director
PARIS, TN – October 9, 2025 – The Henry County School Board held its October meeting at Henry Elementary School, focusing the second half of the meeting on the future of the historic Grove Tower and while first celebrating student achievements. After a vote of confidence, the board support the establishment of a special advisory committee trusted with finding viable, long-term options for the landmark property.
The Board heard a presentation from the Save Grove Tower Association, whose member Ramay Woody Winchester detailed possible plans to transform the building into a historic inn and restaurant. The Association requested the Board address immediate water intrusion from the roof, complete a structural analysis (with costs covered by the Association), and formally support their efforts to preserve the Tower as a historic landmark.
Director of Schools, Dr. Leah Watkins thanked the Association for their presentation and provided a detailed timeline regarding the building's structural issues, which began when the Central Office was asked to vacate the Tower in 2023. Dr. Watkins clarified that federal grant funds previously allocated for the roof were utilized for the high school roof instead, after an April 2023 pre-bid structural assessment deemed the building’s integrity compromised following a major storm. The high school roof work was necessary to avoid losing the expiring federal allocation.
"We are keeping the building stabilized and maintained because it’s important to us and to the community,” Dr. Watkins stated, noting that stabilization efforts cost approximately $176,000.00 from insurance and that currently ongoing maintenance costs are comparable to a teacher's annual salary. She also corrected a possible misunderstanding regarding the Grove Trust funds, confirming that the trust document stipulates the funds can only be used for high school students, not for building maintenance.
In response to the community interest and the need for a comprehensive strategy, Board Chairman Russ Orr announced the formation of a Tower Advisory Committee. This committee will be charged with exploring and proposing viable options for the Grove Tower property to the School Board.
The committee members include:
• School Board Members: Russ Orr and Jim McCampbell
• County Commissioners: Two members to be announced at their meeting
• Citizens at Large: Jerry Hayes, Patrick Smith, and Bill Jelks
In other business, the Board officially introduced its new Student Representative, Collin Whitehead, a senior at Henry County High School who plans to major in Agriscience and is actively involved in DECA, FFA, and Spanish Club.
Henry Elementary School Principal Ashley James and her staff presented on their school's successful programs, including Utrust Recognition for bus drivers and a highly effective attendance campaign that has resulted in a marked reduction in chronic absenteeism compared to the previous year. Attendees were entertained with a performance by the middle school band, conducted by music teacher Deanna Cook.
Top photo: HCSS Board Chairman Russ Orr and Director of Schools Dr. Leah Watkins discuss the Tower Advisory Committee.
Photo 2: Save Grove Tower member Ramay Woody Winchester speaks to the School Board.
Photo 3: Henry teacher, Lisa Olive talks to the Board about student and staff recognition programs and their attendance campaign.
Photo 4: Henry Elementary School principal Angela James and Student Representative Collin Whitehead take a quick photo after the board meeting.
Photo 5: Henry middle school band performs at the October school board meeting.