By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Paris, Tenn.—It was a night for accolades at the Henry County Schools board of education meeting Thursday night as the national FFA contest winner was recognized, along with the high school cross country team and winner of the Patriot Pride Christmas Card design contest.
Plus, the school board and visitors were serenaded by the High School Madrigals as their Director Blair Chadwick made a request for a field trip to Washington D.C. in April. Needless to say, the request was granted.
Paris FFA Advisor Laura Moss introduced everyone to Ryan Patrum, who is only the third Paris FFA member to win the national contest. Patrum won regionals and state contests and won the national competition based on oral presentations and a 20-page application he completed.
Patrum said, “I was nervous, but it all went well.”
Board President Doug Braden said, “I think I speak for the board when I say this is really amazing.”
High School Art Teacher Greg Chandler introduced board members to Student Billie Lassiter, whose designs will be affixed to the County Schools’ Christmas cards this years.
The high school cross country team and its Coach Lance Winders were on hand at the meeting and Winders reflected on a season which saw the team win regionals and go on to placed 4th in state.
At the request of Band Director Kyle Graves, the board approved a field trip to Orlando in April. Graves said the band will be traveling to the Wonderful World of Disney where they will be attending a workshop during which a professional video will be made of their performance. He said each band member will come home with a CD and DVD of the video.
In other business, District Facilities Manager John Akers said the district’s various building projects “are moving right along”.
Photos: The Madrigals serenade everyone at the board meeting; Ryan Patrum recounts his experiences winning national recognition. (Shannon McFarlin photos).