News

34 Mr. WHHS contestants pose for a photo in a fun way on stage. Behind the contestants is a blue "WHHS" stage curtain. 34 Mr. WHHS contestants pose for a photo in a fun way on stage. Behind the contestants is a blue "WHHS" stage curtain.

Have a Holly Jolly Mr. WHHS: A Festive Night of Talent and Giving Back to Families Affected by Hurricane Helene

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (Dec. 2, 2024) – The third annual Mr. WHHS (West Henderson High School) Pageant will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the West Henderson High School auditorium. This year’s event is part of a larger, united effort by McDowell, Watauga, and West Henderson High Schools to raise funds […]

An image of text that says "HCPS Wall of Honor." The background image is the American flag.

Henderson County Public Schools 2024 Wall of Honor: Recognizing HCPS Veterans

In observance of  the 2024 Veterans’ History Awareness Month in North Carolina, Henderson County Public Schools honors the staff members in our HCPS Family who have served our country in the military, and who continue to serve the students and families of our community. United States Army SPC Keith Deese, West Henderson High SGT Phyllis […]

Ms. Ashley McVey and Superintendent Mark Garrett stand in front of the gym with confetti during the announcement. There are students sitting on the gym floor.

Henderson County Public Schools Announces 2024 Media Specialist of the Year: Ashley McVey

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. – Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to announce that Ashley McVey, Media Specialist at Mills River Elementary, has been named the 2024 HCPS Media Specialist of the Year. This prestigious recognition highlights Ms. McVey’s dedication to fostering a love for learning and literature within her school community, her commitment to students […]

An image of text that says "3 communities, one purpose, Hurricane Helene Fundraiser." There is a QR code and mountain scene on the graphic.

3 Communities, One Purpose: Hurricane Helene Fundraiser

For the first time, the Mr. McDowell High School, Mr. Watauga High School, and Mr. West Henderson High School pageants are coming together to raise funds for families within our school communities who have been devastated by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. 100% of your donations will go directly to meeting the specific needs of […]

Holly Miller poses for a photo in front of a North logo backdrop with Superintendent Mark Garrett and Principal Dr. John Shepard.

Gold Standard: Holly Miller Recognized as Henderson County Public Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year

Holly Miller, a Social Studies teacher at North Henderson High School, has been selected as the Henderson County Public Schools’ (HCPS) Beginning Teacher of the Year for 2024-2025. In just her first year of teaching, Ms. Miller has exhibited remarkable dedication, enthusiasm, and professionalism, making a lasting impact on her students and the school community. […]

Ms. McMunigle and 19 students pose for a photo.

Erin McMunigle Named HCPS Outstanding Mathematics Teacher of the Year

Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to recognize Erin McMunigle, a fifth-grade teacher at Sugarloaf Elementary, as the HCPS Outstanding Mathematics Teacher of the Year. In her five years at Sugarloaf, McMunigle has become known for her innovative, hands-on approach to math instruction, ensuring students not only grasp but enjoy learning key concepts. Whether […]

An image of text that says "Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. D-SNAP. Meal Benefits." The background image is produce at the grocery store.

Support for HCPS Families: Meal Benefits and Disaster Relief Resources

As Henderson County continues to recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene, Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is committed to supporting our students, staff, and families during this time. Below, you will find important information about meal assistance programs and disaster relief resources that may benefit your family. Free and Reduced-Price Meal Benefits Families who […]

An exterior shot of the Boys and Girls Club of Henderson County.

Henderson County Public Schools and Fazio Family Boys and Girls Club of Henderson County Partner to Support Atkinson Elementary School

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (October 11, 2024) — Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is excited to welcome back students next week after the impacts of Hurricane Helene. While 22 schools will resume their regular operations, Atkinson Elementary School experienced flooding during the storm, resulting in some damage that needs to be repaired before students and staff can […]

Dr. John Shepard, his wife, and two children pose for a photo in a library.

Excellence in Leadership: Dr. John Shepard Named HCPS Principal of the Year for a Second Time

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (October 10, 2024) — Dr. John Shepard, principal of North Henderson High School, has done it again. After first earning the title in 2019, Dr. Shepard has been named the 2024-2025 Principal of the Year for Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS), marking his second time receiving this prestigious honor. During a Hurricane Helene […]