HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Susan Burton, Communications Director
PARIS, TN – The Henry County Board of Education met for their January meeting at Henry County High School (HCHS), celebrating student achievement, educator excellence, and district-wide academic success.
The Board recognized two students from the HCHS Cross Country team, Hudson Massey and Cael Mathis. Both athletes participated in the TSSAA State Championship held at Shelby Farms in Memphis, TN.
The two athletes competed against the state’s top runners at Shelby Farms in Memphis. Head Coach Stephanie Winders introduced the young men to the Board, praising their work ethic both on and off the course.
“They represented our team well,” said Winders. “They are young men of character and are dedicated to excellence.”
Cael Mathis, the son of Barry and Jessica Mathis, qualified for the state meet after an impressive 2nd-place finish in the sectional qualifier. He placed 70th overall at the state championship with a time of 16:56.
Hudson Massey capped off his season with a personal best at the state meet. He improved his previous time by 3%, dropping from 18:47 to 18:13 to finish 187th overall.
The District Teachers of the Year were also recognized. Austin Thomspon for grades 9-12: Chelsea Lassiter for grades 4-8; and Gabby Payne for grades K-3. The teachers celebrated at each of their schools in December, receiving a bonus and other gifts of appreciation.
Along with policy first readings, budget revisions, and other reports, a facilities update was given by Maintenance Supervisor, Jamie Kemp. Kemp informed the board of safety projects that included fencing designed to reinforce safety at playgrounds and common outdoor areas.
In the Director’s Report, Dr. Leah Watkins announced that January is Board Appreciation Month and each board member was given a Patriot stadium chair. She thanked each board member for their service.
Watkins also highlighted teachers, students, and administrators for their dedication, drive, and perseverance for Henry County School System being named an advancing district in Tennessee. “I want to congratulate our people; I’m proud of the work we have accomplished!” she exclaimed.
Watkins also congratulated Lakewood Elementary School for being named a Reward School and congratulated all schools for their steady progress in the right direction for academic growth and achievement.
The next meeting will be held on February 5, 2026, at Dorothy and Noble Harrelson Elementary School.
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Photo: From left to right, front row, Hudson Mathis, Stephanie Winders, and Cael Mathis. Second row, Board members, Jordan Beddies, Jill Coker, Director of Schools, Leah Watkins, Rusty Wiles, Russ Orr, and Jim McCampbell.