Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) continued a heartwarming district tradition this week, welcoming kindergarteners into the HCPS Family in a memorable way. On September 5th and 6th, in partnership with generous local businesses, the district provided each of the youngest students with a special commemorative t-shirt proudly displaying “Class of 2037.”
While it may be a bit early to expect kindergarteners to think about high school graduation, these brightly colored t-shirts serve as a visual reminder to spark conversations about future aspirations from a young age. The vibrant shirts not only celebrate the start of their educational journey but also symbolize the beginning of their connection to a supportive community that will guide them through the years ahead.
This year, the “Class of 2037” initiative was made possible by the generous support of AdventHealth, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office STAR Program, Hendersonville Family Dental, Mills River Family Dental, Champion Comfort Experts, Blue Ridge Orthodontics, NC Printing, the Hendersonville Honeycrisps, Epperson Tree, Looking Glass Realty, and the Henderson County Education Foundation. Their contributions ensured that each kindergarten student received a shirt, regardless of the middle and high schools they will eventually attend, fostering a sense of unity from the very start.
The t-shirts, in their bright orange hue, are more than just a piece of clothing—they are a symbol of community. It’s a visual reminder that these kindergarteners are the future of Henderson County, and they are surrounded by a community that is deeply invested in their success.
In gratitude for their support, HCPS invited employees and representatives from each sponsoring company to join in the distribution of the t-shirts at the district’s 13 elementary schools. These community partners had the opportunity to meet the kindergarteners they are helping to inspire and support, creating a special moment of connection between the children and those who play a role in their educational journey.
The “Class of 2037” t-shirt tradition is a perfect example of how Henderson County Public Schools and the broader community work hand-in-hand to create a nurturing environment for all students. As these kindergarteners take their first steps into the world of education, they do so with the knowledge that they are part of something much bigger—the HCPS Family.
