Henderson County Schools honor long-serving board members and Judge's Scholars

The Henderson County Board of Education opened its Jan. 20 meeting by honoring long-serving board members and celebrating student achievement across the district.

Doctor Lawson and other speakers recognized Mister Alves for his service to Henderson County Schools, noting his commitment to literacy at Jefferson and East Heights and his engineering background’s contribution to facilities oversight. “Mister Alves, we thank you from the bottom of your heart for your service to Henderson County students,” one presenter said.

The board also honored Mister Mike Waller for 33 years of service, with presenters praising his steady leadership and long family ties to the district.

The meeting included several student recognitions. Cairo Elementary student Naya (listed in the packet as Naya Byrne) was named that school’s Judge’s Scholar; East Heights Elementary named Hannah Grove; and South Middle School recognized Zane (listed as Zane Alideliquit). Superintendent Doctor Lawson and school staff described each student’s academic and character strengths. “Naya is kind and respectful… she’s a true picture of what a Cairo owl should be,” a school representative said of the Cairo honoree.

Coaches and staff also brought forward East Heights’ academic team, the overall winner of the 2025 Superintendent’s Cup; coaches noted multiple scrimmages, a focused practice schedule and team collaboration as keys to success.

Between recognitions, Superintendent Lawson thanked Henderson Municipal Gas personnel and district staff who responded to a November gas-odor incident at North Middle School, crediting Troy Meadows and Jason Buchanan for testing rooms and loaning equipment that kept school operations safe.

The board recessed its recognition and public-comment items and proceeded with regular business later in the meeting.