Clay County Board of Education Recognizes Band Students for Regional Honors

The Clay County Board of Education recognized a group of middle and high school band students during its meeting this week for their selection to the Far West Honors Band.

Board members acknowledged both Hayesville High School (HHS) and Hayesville Middle School (HMS) students, noting that several honorees were unable to attend the meeting.

At the high school level, seniors Ann Gibson and Grace Gibson earned top honors as first chair flute and first chair trumpet, respectively. Other recognized HHS students included Abigail McClure, Maya Polk, Emillia Lackey, Kile Cunningham, Wes Jennings, Sunshine Lamontagne, Trinity Gibson, Coldan Rhea, Gabriel Benedict, Pheobe Camphouse, Grant Baldwin and Madelyn Hengel.

Middle school students recognized for their selection included Aekley Postell, Hanna Bogard-Thompson, Kassandra Gonzalez Machorro, Caleb Cummins, Charles McClure, John Anthony Worley, Grant Hudson, Quinci Phillips and Haylee Bogard.

The Far West Honors Band is a regional ensemble that brings together top student musicians from across western North Carolina. Selection is considered a significant achievement, highlighting the students’ musical skill and dedication.

School officials congratulated the students on their accomplishments and recognized the band programs for their continued success.