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Board recognizes state champions, program milestones and retirees; Project SEARCH marks 10 years
Summary
Blount County Board of Education honored Heritage High girls’ basketball state champions, celebrated Project SEARCH’s 10th graduating class with a record of employment for graduates, recognized Special Olympics participants, employee of the year, and retirees from the 2024–25 school year.
The Blount County Board of Education opened its meeting with a series of recognitions: Heritage High School’s Lady Mountaineers were honored for winning the state championship and were introduced with their coach and assistants; Kathy Pearson of Carpenters Middle School was named classified employee of the year; and the board recognized dozens of retirees from the 2024–25 school year.
Project SEARCH, the district’s transition‑to‑work program for young adults with disabilities, marked its 10th anniversary. Dr. April Herron said the program has maintained "10 years of 100% employment for every graduate," highlighting partnerships with local employers (Airport Hilton, Maryville College culinary program, and Blount Memorial Hospital) and the program’s role in placing graduates into competitive employment.
The board also recognized the Area 15 Special Olympics track and field event and thanked volunteers and partner schools. Will Hubbs, coordinator for Blount County Parks and Rec, told the board the county program supports more than 400 athletes and that the spring track event registered roughly 350 athletes, 250 of whom came from Blount County Schools, supported by more than 260 volunteers and school staff.
Nut Graf: The recognitions underscored extracurricular and transition‑to‑work successes across the district and highlighted community partnerships that support student opportunities beyond the classroom.
Several board members praised principals and staff for their work on special programs and student success. The meeting also included a readout of many retirees by name and short remarks thanking them for years of service.
Ending: The board asked community members to join upcoming graduation events and noted continued partnership needs to sustain the programs celebrated tonight.
