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Henderson County schools showcase student achievements and Sources of Strength program
Summary
Board meeting highlighted student state champions, arts and CTE recognitions, and rollout of the Sources of Strength suicide‑prevention program in high schools; presenters said the program is active in multiple schools and cited research that fidelity can reduce suicidal ideation by about 29%.
The Henderson County Board of Public Education opened its April 13 meeting with a series of staff and student recognitions and presentations from individual schools.
Daniel Korn, assistant principal and athletic director at Rugby Middle School, introduced the cheer team that adapted to a digital state championship submission and won the NCCCCA state title. Chad Inman recognized Alex May as the NCHSAA 150‑pound state wrestling champion. District leaders also spotlighted North Henderson students named Presidential Scholar finalists and Governor's School selectees, and CTE students who earned state and national accolades in FCCLA and HOSA competitions.
Schools presented program highlights. Bruce Drysdale Principal Jason Joyce described the school's Leader in Me implementation and introduced student ambassadors who explained monthly habit recognitions. Clear Creek Principal Dina Wolf and art teacher Laura Miller presented a black‑light art show and promoted a Spring Fling event on April 24. Career Academy teachers and students described the academy as an option for all HCPS eighth graders through a competitive application process and said the Blue Ridge Community College partnership gives students access to college coursework.
Several speakers outlined the districtwide rollout of Sources of Strength, a peer‑led suicide‑prevention program. A district presenter summarized recent training and campaigns and said seven of nine middle and high schools have funding; trainers are being prepared to expand implementation. A presenter cited research, saying the program, when used with fidelity, "reduces suicidal ideation by 29% in middle and high school," and urged broad adoption and visible campus campaigns to support student mental health.
Board members praised the student presentations and the emphasis on whole‑child programming. The presentations ended with invitations to community events and encouragement for public attendance at upcoming ceremonies and competitions.
