Henderson: supporter of students and staff ’til the end

Henderson supporter of students, staff ’til the end

By Emma Parker, Managing Editor

Social studies teacher Vaughn Henderson passed away, unexpectedly, over the weekend of Sept. 26.

Henderson was a veteran, AP Human Geography teacher, backbone of the theater department, Broward Teachers Union steward and club sponsor of Gender-Sexuality Alliance(GSA), Thespians and Improv Club. He was also involved in the School Advisory Committee, Faculty Council, Sunshine and professional development.

Aside from his many titles, students and staff described Henderson as, first and foremost, a supporter of his students. Every year, he focused on his students from their first day as a freshman until their last day as a senior, whether it was in AP Human Geography, Theater, GSA, or anything else he was involved in.

“Mr. Henderson was the first teacher at Pompano to believe in me and he supported everything I wanted to do, even if it’s not how he would’ve done it,” junior Amalia Phend said, president of the Thespians

“Mr. Henderson was the first teacher at

Pompano to believe in me, and he supported everything I wanted to do.” — Amalia Phend, junior

Club.

Several student performers cited Henderson’s encouragement.

“At the beginning of (freshman) year, I was shy and honestly not great at acting or performing in general, but throughout the year he made sure to dedicate time and effort to each and every student, me included, so that they can reach their potential,” sophomore Riley Dion said.

Henderson’s colleagues on the faculty also recognized his support for students.

Nicole Hanna, social studies teacher and chair, described Henderson as someone who “cared deeply about making sure that students felt included, welcomed and a part of the PBHS experience.”

Spanish teacher Ketty Hill, BTU co-steward with Henderson, said he worked to solve any problem that presented itself, whether big or small.

“We were always collaborating, brainstorming ideas as to how to improve around school,” Hill said. “No issue was ignored. Although we worked in different departments, we collaborated a lot for the well-being of all, faculty and students.” Henderson’s mother, Madeleine Henderson, and sister, Sherry Rich, are welcoming any cards from students and staff. The address is 5298 Buckhead Circle, Boca Raton, FL 33486

There is also a memorial page, where students can comment and share the importance and influence Henderson had on them: https://www. gatheringus.com/memorial/ vaughn-henderson/5257.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BEANPICKER YEARBOOK