Ressie Jeffries Elementary Shines with Student Leaders, National Honors, and School Spirit

The Warren County School Board meeting turned into a lively and heartwarming celebration of student achievement, staff dedication, and school pride, thanks to an engaging presentation from Ressie Jeffries Elementary School.  Principal Nina Helmick, Assistant Principal Niki Bradley, and Dean of Students Carolyn Shepherd proudly introduced their young Jaguar reporters — Camden Trowbridge and Reese Schurtz — who led the audience through a showcase of the school’s standout programs and personalities.

Camden and Reese kicked off the presentation with poise and humor, interviewing their school leaders about what makes Ressie Jeffries such a special place. Ms. Bradley emphasized the school’s vibrant student body and staff, calling them her “favorite thing” about the school. Principal Helmick echoed the sentiment, describing the school as a true family.

RSJES-TV reporters Camden Trowbridge and Reese Schurtz.

The student-led news segment, dubbed RJES-TV, included interviews with classmates, teachers, and even the school resource officer. Students highlighted everything from their science fair projects — including robot prototypes, axolotl habitats, and solar system models — to the importance of kindness, teamwork, and creativity.

One special highlight was the recognition of Kristin Frankle, the school counselor, who earned two national certifications this year. She was honored as an ASCA Certified School Counselor. She led Ressie Jeffries to become a Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) school — a prestigious national recognition held by only 1% of U.S. schools. “It means our school counseling program is using the best practices to help all students succeed,” she explained.

The presentation closed with heartfelt messages from fifth-grade students reflecting on what they’ll miss most: their teachers, friends, and the supportive school community.

Attendance Awards Highlight Student Commitment

Later in the meeting, Superintendent Dr. Chris Ballenger presented the monthly WCPS Attendance Awards, which recognize schools with the highest attendance rates and greatest improvement.

Hilda J. Barber Elementary took home the top elementary attendance honor for April with a rate of 94.36%. Staff and parents were praised for their commitment to keeping students in school and excited to learn.

At the secondary level, Warren County Middle School earned the attendance banner once again, continuing a near-perfect streak this school year. With a 93.36% attendance rate in April and a current 96.1% for May, the school is on track to sweep the year. Principal leadership highlighted ongoing family engagement events, goal-setting meetings, and end-of-year celebrations, including a STEM night and ROAR Days to honor students’ hard work.

The Most Improved School Award went to A.S. Rhodes Elementary, which saw a 1.21% attendance increase to 93.59%. Staff credited creative events like an all-student art showcase, family nights, and SOL celebrations for keeping student motivation high as the year winds down.

WCPS 101 Graduates Applauded for Engagement

Also recognized were the participants in the WCPS 101 program, a seven-session initiative offering parents and community members a behind-the-scenes look at how Warren County Public Schools operate. The program covered key topics such as special education, transportation, finance, technology, and school nutrition, with sessions held at different locations around the district.

Graduates spoke passionately about the experience. One parent called it “eye-opening,” especially for families navigating special needs support. Others praised the transparency and depth of the program and encouraged more residents to participate in the future.

“I came from out of state,” said one parent. “This helped me understand where my kids go to school and meet the people guiding their education. It was truly valuable.”

Another participant, a parent of three children with dyslexia, emphasized how WCPS 101 empowered her to better advocate for her children and understand how policies and funding decisions are made.

With student voices, dedicated educators, and informed parents all stepping up, the School Board meeting painted a picture of a district where engagement, growth, and pride are at the heart of education.

Click here to watch the Warren County School Board Meeting of May 7, 2025.