On a red vertical rectangular shaped embroidered item arched convexly at top and bottom edged with a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) black border, displaying a black bear's paw print detailed silver gray with black claws. Attached above the rectangle a silver gray scroll edged with a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) black border inscribed "HARLAN COUNTY" in black letters. Attached below the rectangle a silver gray scroll edged with a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) black border inscribed "HIGH SCHOOL" in black letters. The overall dimensions are 3 1/2 inches (8.89 cm) in height and 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in width.
Cardinal red and black are the school colors. The black bear is the school's mascot. Cardinal Red is symbolic of the courage of cadets as leaders in the school and the community. Black and Silver signifies the truth and determination to succeed in all endeavors. The paw print represents the Black Bear and reflects the pride, honor, and loyalty instilled in the cadets through leadership training.
The shoulder sleeve insignia was authorized 21 November 2011. (TIOH Drawing Number A-10J-990)