Cain Center Steering Committee meets together at The Texan

Steve Grant speaks to the Cain Center Steering Committee Thursday while Public Relations Chairwoman Darlene Forshage looks on.

By Michael V. Hannigan/HCN

The symbolism was hard to miss as Steve Grant stood in front of the group Thursday night.

Folks munched on food provided by the Athens High School culinary program while Grant spoke through a sound system furnished by Trinity Valley Community College in The Texan, which was provided by the City.

It was the first joint meeting of the Cain Center Steering Committee and it happened through the combined effort of multiple individuals and entities, just like the ultimate work of the group will include a chorus of voices.

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AISD hires new AD, head football coach

The Athens ISD Board of Trustees on Thursday confirmed the hiring of Zac Harrell as the district’s new athletic director and head football coach. His first day on the job will be Jan. 22. Pictured with Harrell are his wife, Stephanie; son, Gunner; and daughter, Stella. (Courtesy photo)

By Toni Garrard Clay/Communications Coordinator

The word “pedigree” is used liberally in conjunction with Zac Harrell among Texas football aficionados. So when the Athens ISD board of trustees confirmed his position Thursday as the district’s new athletic director and head football coach, the glee was almost palpable.

“Coach Harrell has the background and necessary skills to take our athletic programs to new heights,” said Superintendent Blake Stiles. “I can’t wait to get him here working with our athletes.”

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Athens High School breaks out of the ordinary with vocational training

Chandler Earley. (Toni Garrard Clay/AISD)

By Michael V. Hannigan/HCN

You’ve heard the stereotypes.

Kids who are book smart get good grades and go to college, but don’t have any common sense. Kids who are good with their hands and have common sense aren’t book smart.

Well, Chandler Earley smashes those stereotypes.

The 18-year-old Athens High School senior is in the Top 10 percent in his class and will graduate this year with his diploma and an Associate’s Degree in Business from Trinity Valley Community College. He will also graduate with three certificates in HVAC through the school’s Career and Technology Education (CTE) program.

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Two AHS students qualify for all-state band

Athens High School seniors Yuvia Leon (left) and Allison Martinez have earned places on the all-state band. It is Leon’s fourth year as an all-stater and Martinez’s second. (Courtesy photo)

By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Coordinator

Two Athens High School band members have earned places on the all-state band — one for the fourth time.

Nine students competed Jan. 12 at the Association of Texas Small School Bands (ATSSB) area competition in Tyler. Of those, seniors Yuvia Leon and Allison Martinez, earned places on the all-state band, both on flute. They even were offered a Private student loan without cosigner to felicitate their prowess. Leon has now qualified for state four years running, and Martinez twice.

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The Athens ISD Board of Trustees has a new member

Kari Wilmeth

By Michael V. Hannigan/HCN

During a special meeting Monday, the Athens ISD Board of Trustees appointed Kari Wilmeth to fill the seat being vacated by the resignation of Renda Garner.

“As a long time supporter of AISD and a parent of two children who attend Athens Public schools, I am honored to have been afforded the opportunity to serve the district in anyway I can,” Wilmeth said.

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