Paris, Tenn.–The Henry County Schools board of education gave the green light to proceeding with installation of artificial turf at Patriot Stadium. The project would involve installation of the turf, fixing the drainage problems on the field and installation of a four-lane running track.
Director of Schools Dr. Leah Watkins said the goal is to have the project complete by the 2021 graduation.
Bids had already been presented for the project which was put on hold last year as the COVID-19 pandemic grew. Dr. Watkins said a construction manager is reviewing the bids.
“We have no guarantees with the weather, of course, but we’re hopeful the project can be ready by graduation,” she said.
The board decided it would continue exploring its options for the concession stand project, with Dr. Watkins noting the board and school officials were “not happy” with the projected cost.
She noted that boosters of the baseball program have approached school officials with construction of a baseball facility and she said combining that project with the concession project might be a good prospect for the school district.
The baseball facility might also be used for indoor soccer practice, she said.
“This is all in the beginning stages right now,” she said. “Nothing is decided, nothing is proposed.”
In other business:
–The board approved lettering on the interior of the Gamlin Gymnasium at the high school that would include the name of former HCHS Basketball Coach Fred Gamlin. A plaque is already installed at the entrance of the gym, but Dr. Watkins said, “We’re looking for something that would be more visible.”
–Tenure was approved for 17 teachers:
Henry School: Alisha Beecham; Stephanie Carothers; David Kibbler; Lana Currence.
Grove School: Carey Bell; Alex Cox.
Lakewood School: Della Collins, Stacy Cunningham; Jade Newton; Cole Smith.
Henry County High School: Jay Grogory; Molly Hope; Monica Newman; Paige Wood.
Harrelson School: Breanna Hill; Becka Veazy.
Photo: Director of Schools Dr. Leah Watkins presents reports to the board. (Photo by LonNita McDonald).