News Release
For Immediate Release
April 15, 2026
Contact
Gina Patterson, executive director
434-295-8722 or gina@vsba.org
VSBA Board of Directors Blue Ridge Region Regional Scholarship Recipient Announced
Charlottesville, VA – The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) proudly announces Kaylee Pettit, a senior at Bassett High School in Henry County Public Schools, as the 2026 VSBA Board of Directors Regional Scholarship recipient for the VSBA Blue Ridge Region. Pettit was recognized last night during the VSBA Blue Ridge Region Spring Network Forum and will receive a $5,000 scholarship to support her post-secondary education.
Pettit is an active member of Beta Club, National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta Honor Society, and has served as a Junior Class Marshal while participating in the CHILL Program.
After graduating, Kaylee plans to attend Radford University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology, followed by a master’s degree in clinical psychology and counseling. She hopes to work directly with individuals, particularly adolescents, helping them build resilience, develop health coping strategies, and feel understood. Kaylee is passionate about understanding human behavior and supporting young people as they navigate mental health challenges.
“Receiving the VSBA Board of Directors Regional Scholarship means more than financial support to me,” stated Pettit. “It represents recognition from leaders in public education who believe in my potential. Knowing that my school board and educators see value in my hard work, perseverance, and goals, gives me a renewed sense of confidence as I prepare for college. Personally, it serves as motivation to continue striving for excellence and to give back to the community that has invested in me.”
“Kaylee exemplifies the dedication, leadership, and commitment to learning that we are proud to see in students across the Blue Ridge Region,” said VSBA Blue Ridge Region Chair and Patrick County School Board Chair Amy Walker. “Her academic achievements, involvement in honor societies, and passion for supporting the mental health and well-being of others demonstrate the kind of passion and determination that will serve her well in the future.”
VSBA Executive Director Gina Patterson stated, “VSBA is honored to support students like Kaylee who demonstrate both academic excellence and a strong desire to serve their communities. Her commitment to pursuing a career focused on supporting the mental health and well-being of young people reflects the kind of leadership and compassion that will strengthen communities across Virginia.”
About the Virginia School Boards Association
The Virginia School Boards Association, a voluntary, nonpartisan organization of Virginia school boards, promotes excellence in public education through advocacy, training, and services. The Association offers conferences, information, training, and counseling designed to meet the needs of the Commonwealth’s educational leaders.
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