A Day of Surprise at LCHS

What began as a normal school day at LaRue County High School quickly turned into a moment students and staff won’t soon forget.

Students were brought into the LCHS gym for what was described as a brief assembly. When they entered, they were met with rows of neatly organized gift bags spread across the gym floor — one for every student. Inside each bag was a LaRue County Hawks hoodie, a surprise made possible through the generosity of local businesses, community organizations, and an anonymous donor.

The moment set the tone for a day centered on gratitude and connection, reminding students they are supported by more than just their school.

For Principal Whitney Choate, the surprise captured the heart of what makes LaRue County special.

“Thanks to the generosity of our community, every student in our building received a LaRue County Hawks hoodie,” Choate said. “It’s a reminder of how deeply this community cares about our kids. Our students also created a special surprise for our teachers, and it truly made for a great day.”

That second surprise came later, when teachers were presented with custom-commissioned art pieces created by students. Each piece was designed to reflect the individual teacher’s interests, passions, or personality — a thoughtful and personal expression of appreciation that resonated deeply with staff.

Local business owners Jimmy Shaw and Bobby Dobson were among those who helped make the day possible, working alongside other donors to ensure every student felt included during the holiday season.

“We’re always glad to give back to our community,” Shaw said. “When we were approached with the idea of making sure every student at LaRue County High School had a great Christmas, it was an easy yes.”

Dobson said the motivation behind the effort was simple and shared by many who chose to support it.

“Our goal was simple — to make sure every student felt included and had a wonderful Christmas here at LaRue County High School,” Dobson said.

Donors supporting the initiative included Will Harris Homes, Heartland Mini Golf, Nall’s Specialized Hauling, Parkway Baptist Church, Brooks Fencing, Lewis Auction Company, and Zion Solutions Group, along with an anonymous donor. Refreshments at the event were provided by Riverbrook Realty and South Fork Baptist Church.

School leaders said the surprise went beyond hoodies or holiday gifts. It reflected the culture that defines LaRue County Schools — one rooted in relationships, shared responsibility, and a belief that schools thrive when communities show up together.

Within LaRue County Schools, that collective spirit is known as the Hawk Family. As students wore their new Hawks hoodies throughout the day and teachers displayed artwork made just for them, the message was clear: in LaRue County, taking care of one another isn’t just a holiday gesture — it’s who they are.