Photos – Memorial Day Service at Vero High

Student charged after loaded gun found in backpack at VBHS

VERO BEACH — A Vero Beach High School student was arrested after a school resource deputy found a loaded Glock .380-caliber firearm in his bookbag Monday morning, sheriff's officials said. The incident led to an increase of security at the 2,900-student campus, said Cristen Maddux, spokesperson for the School District of Indian River County. "Prior to the start of classes this morning, several students were found in the restroom. Suspected of vaping, VBHS admin brought the students to the office and searched their bags," Maddux said in a statement. "Upon searching, our school resource deputy found a handgun in a student's bag." It was unknown how the student obtained the gun, sheriff's spokesperson Sgt. Kevin Jaworski said. Martrez Antonio Barnes, ...

Tradition: Vero Beach High School Homecoming Parade brings spirit, fun

School spirit was in full effect as residents gathered downtown to cheer on the Vero Beach High Homecoming Parade on Thursday. The sounds from whistles, drums and horns could be heard before the Fighting Indians Band marched down the streets in formation. "Being able to march with the Vero Beach High School band in the parade is such an amazing opportunity," said flutist Jada Heppern, a junior who also helped lead the ensemble during the 42nd Annual Crown Jewel Marching Band Festival at the school's Citrus Bowl Stadium last weekend. "I'm super excited to march as a drum major this year." Indian River School Board Chair Dr. Peggy Jones was the Grand Marshal for the event. Families, students and alumni ...

Get ready – VBHS Homecoming Parade set for next Thursday

Homecoming season is underway in Indian River County. Next Thursday at 5 p.m., the community is invited to celebrate Vero Beach High School's homecoming parade that will be routed through downtown. "The parade will be a continuation of the tradition that binds Vero Beach High School alumni and residents together by fostering a sense of belonging and community," Assistant Principal Vanessa Gonzalez said. Indian River School Board Chair Dr. Peggy Jones will be the parade's Grand Marshal. Jones, a longtime Vero Beach resident, said the opportunity to lead the parade is a great honor. "I had the biggest smile on my face when (Principal Shawn) O’Keefe asked me," Jones said. "I participated in the Sebastian River High School Homecoming Parade ...