By Susan Burton, Henry County Schools Communications Director
Paris, TN – High school students in Henry County will enjoy an exciting change for 2025-26 with grades 9-12 students attending two schools, but on one traditional grade 9-12 campus. The E.W. Grove Freshman Academy at HCHS will be located on the Henry County High School campus this school year, a move that will provide more opportunities for freshmen.
The E. W. Grove Freshman Academy at HCHS will offer students opportunities to take more Career Technical Education classes, such as Criminal Justice, Automotives, and Graphic Design, just to name a few. Merging the two campuses also provides opportunities for freshmen to take a foreign language, take a piano elective, or take a weightlifting class.
According to Principal Ryan Muench, “This is a chance to create something really special. While we will now operate as two schools under one roof, we are committed to honoring what has made Grove such a unique and valuable experience for our 9th-grade students. The relationships, support systems, and sense of belonging that defined Grove will not disappear; instead, students will grow and evolve within the larger high school community.
Transition Principal Pam McCord explained, “As we prepare for the exciting transition of bringing all 9th–12th grade students under one roof, we want to ensure families are informed and ready for a successful start to the school year. We will provide updates that include important information about logistics—such as Open House, school start times, and parking—as well as what students can expect as part of our evolving school community.”
McCord said school hours will be from 8:10 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. More information will be announced this month.
She encourages all students and families to regularly check the Henry County High School-Paris, Tennessee and E.W. Grove School Facebook pages and school websites found on the district website, henryk12.net. The Henry County School System Facebook page will also keep the public informed of the updates.
According to high school administrators, parking and traffic flow may feel different this year. Updated maps and directions for drop-off, pick-up, and student parking will be shared soon, as will parking pass purchases. “Our goal is to keep things running safely and smoothly, and we appreciate your patience as we settle into the new routines,” Muench said.
An Open House will be held on July 31 for all grades 9-12 students and their families. This is a great opportunity to meet teachers, explore the buildings, and ask questions about schedules, expectations, and the year ahead. McCord further said, “We’re excited about this next step and confident that together, we can make it a great year. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions as we move forward. We’re here to help every student feel prepared, supported, and excited for what’s ahead.”
Photo-High school administrators work collaboratively for a smooth transition in scheduling. Seated from bottom left, Jake Anderson, Pam McCord, Ryan Muench, Renae Lassiter, Robin House, and Steve Summers. Michele Webb not pictured. Photo by Susan Burton/Henry Co. Schools.