Kaleigh Walker Student Success

Quarterly Data Days Improve Outcomes for Students with Disabilities

At Knox County Schools, students with disabilities are benefiting from a districtwide initiative known as Data Days — a structured, quarterly review of academic and behavioral progress for more than 8,000 special education students.

The program began three years ago under the leadership of Dr. Karen Loy, Executive Director of Special Education. 

Drawing from her background as a school principal, Dr. Loy emphasized the importance of tracking progress regularly — not just at the end of the year.

“You can’t wait until the school year ends to see how you did,” Dr. Loy said. “Data Days give us a real-time view of how our students are progressing in reading, math, discipline, and more.”

Initially focused on required state performance indicators (APRs), the initiative has evolved into a comprehensive review system. 

Using a massive, filterable spreadsheet created by the district’s Research, Evaluation, and Assessment (REA) team, the special education department reviews individual student data four times a year. 

The data is broken down by region, school, teacher, and even individual interventions, allowing staff to identify students or trends that need attention.

What makes Data Days unique is the coaching-driven approach. 

If a student isn’t making adequate progress, the conversation starts at the teacher level, with support from facilitators and, when needed, school administrators. 

It’s not punitive — it’s collaborative.

“Our goal is to figure out what’s not working and support our teachers in solving it,” Dr. Loy explained. “Sometimes it’s a matter of scheduling — like realizing a 45-minute intervention was only getting 30 minutes. That’s a fixable problem.”

The initiative has grown to include high school course failures, graduation tracking, and benchmark data to assess readiness for state tests. It also provides professional development for staff and helps build capacity across the district.

As a result, students are getting more tailored support, teachers are receiving better tools and feedback, and schools are developing stronger systems of intervention. 

In fact, other large districts have taken notice — asking Knox County to share its approach.

“Looking at 8,000 students every quarter is a big task,” said Dr. Loy, “but it’s worth it. We’re making sure every student is seen.”

Success for Every Student

Knox County Schools is dedicated to Success for Every Student. All students have unique abilities, needs, personalities, and ambitions. KCS is committed to equipping every student with the individualized services, interventions, resources, and supports needed to succeed – no matter their zip code, culture, or financial resources.

Kaleigh Walker Community Partners, Student Success

Big Brothers Big Sisters Launches High School Mentoring Program

Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee has launched an inspiring new high school mentoring program at Karns High School, pairing high school juniors with fourth graders at nearby Karns Elementary. 

The initiative is part of the organization’s growing focus on school-based mentoring, which offers consistent, one-on-one guidance in a familiar and safe environment.

While Big Brothers Big Sisters is well known for its community-based mentoring, Chief Program Officer Savannah Carter said this model reflects a national trend toward programs that happen during the school day. 

“There’s something really special about the peer connection between older and younger students—especially when it’s intentional,” Carter said. “It’s about finding shared interests, building trust, and showing up every week.”

The high school mentors—called “Bigs”—visit their “Littles” once a week for about 30 minutes, and whether they’re playing foosball, drawing, or simply talking, the time is unstructured but meaningful. 

And the impact flows both ways: Littles benefit from a consistent, positive role model, while Bigs gain leadership experience, communication skills, and something valuable to talk about in future job or college interviews.

So far, six Big-Little matches have been made at Karns, with more planned for the coming school year. The goal is for each pair to remain matched through the end of the high school student’s senior year—creating a powerful two-year bond. 

“It’s been incredible to see the high schoolers take initiative and show up at 7 a.m. because they want to be there,” Carter said.

Big Brothers Big Sisters hopes to expand this program to other Knox County schools. Interested school staff can reach out to Jennifer Davis (jdavis@tennesseebig.org) or Savannah Carter (scarter@tennesseebig.org) to learn more about bringing this opportunity to their campuses.

Success for Every Student

Knox County Schools is dedicated to Success for Every Student. All students have unique abilities, needs, personalities, and ambitions. KCS is committed to equipping every student with the individualized services, interventions, resources, and supports needed to succeed – no matter their zip code, culture, or financial resources.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Community Partners

Knox County Students Drive Dual Enrollment Success at Pellissippi State

Dual enrollment is opening doors for Knox County Schools students, providing them with a head start on their college journey while still in high school. 

One of the 865 Academies’ goals is to provide students with the opportunity to take advanced courses while in high school. Through a partnership with Pellissippi State Community College (PSTCC), this goal is making a significant impact—KCS dual enrollment students make up 24% (nearly a quarter!) of PSTCC’s total enrollment.

“There are 13 community colleges in the state of Tennessee, and they all offer dual enrollment,” said Spencer Joy, PSTCC’s Dual Enrollment Manager. “But there is no other community college in the state that has this arrangement, where students can take such a wide variety of courses as they can through PSTCC.”

Students who meet eligibility requirements can choose from approximately 200 different courses, delivered in multiple formats—including at their high school, online, or in person at PSTCC’s Hardin Valley, Magnolia Avenue, or Strawberry Plains campuses. 

The flexibility of online courses has expanded significantly in recent years, making dual enrollment even more accessible.

Shannon Jackson, KCS Executive Director of College & Career, emphasizes the broader benefits of these opportunities. 

“Advanced Academics—which include Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and industry certifications in addition to dual enrollment—are critical in preparing students for success beyond high school,” she said. “We are grateful to Pellissippi State for partnering with Knox County Schools and providing this incredible opportunity for so many students. Dual enrollment, in particular, allows students to experience college coursework in a supportive environment, setting them up for future achievement.”

Beyond earning college credits, dual enrollment provides invaluable learning experiences. 

“This is every one of these students’ first college experience,” Joy said. “What better way for us as a community to help them start college locally and at what I’d argue is close to the gold standard in community colleges in Tennessee?”

By participating in dual enrollment through the 865 Academies, KCS students are getting a jump-start on their futures, gaining college experience, and saving money on tuition—all while still in high school.

Career Empowerment and Preparation

Knox County Schools is dedicated to Career Empowerment and Preparation. At KCS, we are committed to preparing students for graduation and life after graduation. By providing students with early and meaningful opportunities to explore colleges and KCS is reimagining the high school experience through the 865 Academies to prepare students for their future after graduation, whether that means enrolling in postsecondary studies; enlisting in service to their country; or finding employment in a high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand profession, with an entrepreneurial mindset. Learn more about this initiative at knoxschools.org/academies.

Kaleigh Walker Uncategorized

QPAs and QSAs: A Game-Changer for Literacy in Knox County Schools

What are the QPA and QSA?

Knox County Schools is taking a new approach to ensure all K-5 students master literacy with two powerful diagnostic tools: the Quick Phonics Assessment (QPA) and the Quick Spelling Assessment (QSA). 

The QPA, given to kindergarten through second grade students, focuses on decoding skills—helping students recognize and sound out words. The QSA, administered to first through fifth graders, assesses encoding skills like spelling.

QPA & QSA Defined

QPA (Quick Phonics Assessment): diagnostic test given to all kindergarten – 2nd grade students & focuses on decoding skills like sounding out words

QSA (Quick Spelling Assessment): diagnostic test given to all 3rd – 5th grade students & focuses on encoding skills like spelling

According to Dr. Erin Phillips, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, these assessments are embedded within the district’s curriculum, which makes them especially valuable. 

“Because they follow the same systematic scope and sequence of how we teach phonics, teachers can easily pinpoint gaps and intervene in a structured way,” she explained.

Why is this important right now?

This school year marks the first time KCS has implemented these assessments district-wide. While KCS has always used a universal reading screener three times a year (as required by law), only students flagged for reading difficulties would receive a follow-up diagnostic assessment. That changed this year.

“For the first time, we administered the QPA to all K-2 students and the QSA to all 1st-5th graders,” said Dr. Phillips. “This shift allows us to identify reading gaps for every student—not just those who were flagged—giving teachers a clearer picture of what each child needs to succeed.”

Why implement these additional diagnostics?

The universal reading screener helps identify students who may need extra support, but it does not pinpoint exactly where a student’s reading challenges begin. That’s where the QPA and QSA come in.

“This diagnostic tells us the exact first point of error for a student,” Dr. Phillips explained. “That knowledge allows teachers to provide targeted instruction instead of taking a broad approach that may not address the root of the issue.”

Beyond diagnostics, KCS has also aligned its instructional materials across all literacy programs, ensuring consistency from classroom instruction to intervention services. 

“We used to have different programs teaching the same skills in different ways,” Dr. Phillips said. “Now, everything—from Tier 1 literacy instruction to Tier 2 and Tier 3 support—follows the same structure and academic language, which prevents confusion and helps students progress faster.”

What growth and changes have we seen so far?

Though the program is still in its first year, teachers are already seeing a difference. 

“The response from teachers has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Dr. Phillips. “They’re able to see student progress in ways they couldn’t before and are getting a much deeper understanding of what their students know and what they still need to learn.”

Additionally, the district is building stronger collaboration between academics and support services to provide better coherence in literacy instruction. 

“Our goal is not just to implement a new assessment but to make sure our entire literacy approach is aligned, effective, and giving students the best chance at success,” Dr. Phillips emphasized.

While it will take time to see the full impact of these changes, KCS is already gaining valuable insights. 

“We’re getting better at analyzing and using this data to drive instruction,” Dr. Phillips said. “And most importantly, we’re ensuring more students learn to read early—setting them up for long-term academic success.”

Excellence in Foundational Skills

Knox County Schools is committed to Excellence in Foundational Skills. Early literacy and middle school math are foundational to a student’s academic and lifelong success. By preparing students to read proficiently by third grade and reach or surpass proficiency in Algebra I by ninth grade, KCS equips every student with the skills needed to succeed in and beyond the classroom.

Kaleigh Walker Great Educators

Halls High Teacher Wins $25,000 Extreme Classroom Makeover

Halls High School science teacher Abby Rase has always been passionate about making science engaging and accessible for her students. 

Now, thanks to a $25,000 grant from ORAU’s Extreme Classroom Makeover, she will have the opportunity to enhance her classroom with cutting-edge technology and resources.

Rase, who creates a hands-on, collaborative learning environment, believes that failure is a part of growth. 

“My philosophy is just kind of making a space where it’s okay to fail because we all do,” she said. “Being okay with failure and understanding that we can learn from it, and we all can collaborate and come together to figure out a problem—that’s what’s important.”

The impact of her teaching is evident in the enthusiasm of her students. Aiden Smith, a member of the Student Government Association at Halls, shared how Rase has transformed his experience at school. 

“She makes it enjoyable,” he said. “She deserves all of it. She’s the best teacher I’ve ever been around by far.”

Senior Judah Rievley credits Rase with inspiring his decision to pursue microbiology. 

“Science can be just facts, facts, facts, but she made it fun—something that I’m going to remember in college,” he said. “Her class just pushed me into the science field because she made me feel like I could do this every day.”

The excitement surrounding the grant extends beyond Rase’s students. Halls High Executive Principal Spencer Long praised her energy and enthusiasm. 

“The energy in the science department has become infectious,” Long said. “Students love taking her classes, and we see more students requesting to take science courses next year. That’s what’s awesome.”

The ORAU Extreme Classroom Makeover grant is designed to help teachers create innovative learning experiences through technology. 

Craig Laymen, ORAU Senior Director for Workforce Development, emphasized the importance of supporting educators. 

“It starts with the teachers. We have to take care of the teachers because they’re the ones who create the STEM spark,” he said. “Someone in this room today is going to discover something that will benefit the nation and the world.”

Laymen also noted that Rase’s application stood out for its creativity. 

“You could just sense the innovation and compassion for her students,” he said. “The students wanted to be there. They were excited to learn. That’s what made her application shine.”

Although Rievley and other seniors won’t get to use the new equipment, they recognize the long-term benefits for future students. 

“This is going to mean a lot to the next class,” he said. “It’s going to last for years.”

As the school community celebrates Rase’s achievement, she remains focused on what matters most—her students’ growth. 

“It’s the moment things click,” she said. “That look on a kid’s face when they understand how cells work together to form tissues and organs—it’s all worth it.”

Great Educators in Every School

Great educators are core to the mission of KCS. By investing in meaningful professional development and growth opportunities, and pursuing innovative strategies to retain and recruit high-quality educators, KCS is positioning great educators in every classroom.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

Northwest Middle Becomes Tennessee’s First AVID Demonstration Middle School

Northwest Middle School has made history by becoming the first AVID Demonstration middle school in Tennessee. 

This achievement is the result of nearly two decades of dedication to the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program, which equips students with the skills they need to succeed in college and beyond.

AVID is a nationally recognized academic support program designed to prepare students in grades 7-12 for college readiness. 

AVID Demonstration Schools serve as models of excellence, showcasing best practices in student achievement, inquiry-based tutorials, and a schoolwide commitment to college preparedness. These schools undergo a rigorous validation process and must be periodically revalidated to maintain their distinction.

KCS Assistant Superintendent of Academics Dr. Keith Wilson emphasized the importance of programs like AVID in ensuring students are prepared for their futures. 

“As a district, our goal is to see students graduate high school ready to enroll in postsecondary education, find employment in a high-wage profession, or enlist in the military,” Wilson said. “That doesn’t happen without intentional support. AVID plays a key role in helping students develop academically and personally, ensuring they are equipped for the Monday after graduation.”

Executive Director of College and Career Shannon Jackson highlighted Northwest Middle’s unwavering commitment to student success. 

“AVID is not just a program—it’s a commitment to excellence,” Jackson said. “The dedication of the staff and leadership at Northwest has been instrumental in creating a schoolwide culture of college readiness. This achievement is a testament to their hard work and the impact AVID has on students’ futures.”

KCS AVID Facilitator Michelle Staal reflected on the school’s evolving student population and the importance of AVID in supporting diverse learners. 

“Our student body has changed significantly over the years. We now serve a population that is nearly 50% Hispanic, with many newcomer students. Additionally, 30% of our students receive special education services,” Staal said. “AVID provides the structure and support necessary to meet the needs of all our students, helping them develop the skills to advocate for themselves and succeed academically.”

Northwest Middle Principal Joann Gardner spoke about the long journey to earning this distinction. 

“AVID started here in 2006, and over the years, we’ve seen leadership changes and evolving student needs,” Gardner said. “Through it all, our commitment to AVID has remained strong. This recognition is the culmination of nearly 20 years of dedication to helping students find their voice and set goals for their futures.”

At its core, AVID helps students develop essential skills such as efficient study habits, critical thinking, and self-advocacy. By fostering a college-going culture, AVID ensures that students—regardless of background—have the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams. Northwest Middle’s recognition as an AVID Demonstration School solidifies its role as a model for other schools across the state and beyond.

Congratulations to Northwest Middle on this incredible accomplishment! Their commitment to student success will inspire schools across Tennessee to follow in their footsteps.

Career Empowerment and Preparation

Knox County Schools is dedicated to Career Empowerment and Preparation. At KCS, we are committed to preparing students for graduation and life after graduation. By providing students with early and meaningful opportunities to explore colleges and KCS is reimagining the high school experience through the 865 Academies to prepare students for their future after graduation, whether that means enrolling in postsecondary studies; enlisting in service to their country; or finding employment in a high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand profession, with an entrepreneurial mindset. Learn more about this initiative at knoxschools.org/academies.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

Hands-On Training Leads to Full-Time Job for KCS HVAC Intern

For Keaton Kidd, working with his hands has always been second nature. From electrical to plumbing and HVAC, he explored various trades in high school. But it wasn’t until he participated in an internship with the KCS Maintenance Department that he found his career path.

“I knew I wanted to do a trade when I got out of school,” Kidd said. “When they came out with this program, I said, ‘I’ll try it.’ I loved the people I worked with. They were great teachers. So I decided I’d stick with this.”

Kidd was one of several students who took part in the KCS Maintenance internship, a program that allowed students to apply their classroom learning in a real-world setting. 

During his semester-long internship, Kidd spent his afternoons working alongside seasoned HVAC technicians, gaining hands-on experience troubleshooting and repairing equipment.

The internship program was developed when Halls High Principal Spencer Long reached out to the KCS Director of Maintenance, Chris Towe, about students interested in an internship.

Mike Pollard, Maintenance Supervisor, said the experience was invaluable—not just for students, but for the department as well.

“They were already taking an HVAC class through the CTE department, so they understood the basics,” Pollard explained. “When they came to work with us, they would ride with one of our seasoned technicians, gaining real, hands-on experience. They weren’t just watching; they were troubleshooting and repairing equipment.”

Kidd stood out early on. His work ethic, dependability, and enthusiasm for the trade made a lasting impression on the team.

“He was always on time. He didn’t miss a day,” Pollard said. “He’s just a nice young man and a really good employee.”

After completing his internship, Kidd was hired full-time as an HVAC Technician with KCS Maintenance, covering schools in the north Knoxville area—a community he grew up in.

“I love it,” Kidd said. “Just the people I’m always around are so positive and great to work with.”

Pollard emphasized that Kidd’s success highlights the benefits of the program.

“We knew his work ethic and his knowledge before he came to work with us, and that’s a tremendous help when making a hiring decision,” he said. “We actually picked Keaton over some candidates with more experience because he showed initiative and really wanted to be here.”

As for students considering an internship, Kidd has simple advice: “It doesn’t hurt to try. I tried it, and I loved it. Maybe someone else can too.”

With the success of the HVAC and electrical internship programs, Pollard believes there’s potential for expansion into other trades.

“I can see it growing,” he said. “If students show interest in other areas, we’d love to give them the same opportunities.”

For Kidd, that opportunity turned into a career—one built on hands-on learning, hard work, and a passion for the trade.

Career Empowerment and Preparation

Knox County Schools is dedicated to Career Empowerment and Preparation. At KCS, we are committed to preparing students for graduation and life after graduation. By providing students with early and meaningful opportunities to explore colleges and KCS is reimagining the high school experience through the 865 Academies to prepare students for their future after graduation, whether that means enrolling in postsecondary studies; enlisting in service to their country; or finding employment in a high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand profession, with an entrepreneurial mindset. Learn more about this initiative at knoxschools.org/academies.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

Farragut High Student Selected for Prestigious U.S. Senate Youth Program

Farragut High School senior Sophie Lu has been selected as one of Tennessee’s two student representatives for the highly competitive United States Senate Youth Program. 

This elite program provides an immersive experience for outstanding high school students with aspirations in public service. 

As part of the 63rd annual Washington Week, Sophie will travel to the nation’s capital to engage with top government officials, including senators, cabinet members, and even the president of the United States. 

In addition to the experience, she will receive a $10,000 college scholarship funded by The Hearst Foundations.

For Sophie, this achievement is the culmination of years of dedication to civic engagement and leadership. 

“I first heard about the program as a freshman when a senior at my school was selected,” Sophie shared. “Ever since then, I’ve had my eye on the opportunity, and I’m beyond excited to represent Tennessee.”

Senate Youth is among the most prestigious youth government programs in the country, with only two students selected from each state. 

To qualify, students must hold high-level elected or appointed leadership positions in their schools or communities and undergo a rigorous selection process. This includes multiple rounds of applications, essays, and interviews that test their knowledge of U.S. government and policy.

“The application process was intense,” Sophie explained. “One of the essays focused on an issue I’m passionate about—civic engagement education for high school students. I proposed a five-pronged solution incorporating government support and personal experiences in both STEM and policy.”

Her selection reflects her commitment to public service and leadership, qualities she hopes to cultivate further during her time in Washington, D.C. 

“I’m most looking forward to being in historic spaces like the White House and Capitol Hill, but I’m also thrilled to meet the other student delegates from across the country,” she said. “We’ve already started connecting online, and I can’t wait to learn from their diverse perspectives.”

Sophie, who plans to study STEM and policy in college before pursuing law school, sees this opportunity as a stepping stone toward her future career. 

“Being in a real-life government setting will help solidify my goals,” she noted. “I hope to merge my interests in science and policy to make a meaningful impact.”

Beyond her own aspirations, Sophie is passionate about inspiring the next generation of civic-minded leaders. 

“I wasn’t always comfortable with public speaking or advocating for my beliefs,” she admitted. “But I’ve learned that life is too important to take too seriously. You never know what you’re capable of until you try.”

Her advice to younger students? 

“Go for it. Whether it’s politics, advocacy, or any leadership role—just put yourself out there. Especially in today’s political climate, there’s real value in learning to articulate your beliefs respectfully and productively.”

Sophie expressed gratitude to the teachers who encouraged her to pursue this path. 

“My history teacher, Ms. Brimer, sparked my love for history, and my English teacher, Ms. Smithey, taught me so much about the education system. Their support helped shape my perspective, and I’m incredibly thankful.”

As she prepares for Washington Week, Sophie remains excited for what lies ahead. 

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m ready to take it all in. I love D.C., I love government, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.”

Career Empowerment and Preparation

Knox County Schools is dedicated to Career Empowerment and Preparation. At KCS, we are committed to preparing students for graduation and life after graduation. By providing students with early and meaningful opportunities to explore colleges and KCS is reimagining the high school experience through the 865 Academies to prepare students for their future after graduation, whether that means enrolling in postsecondary studies; enlisting in service to their country; or finding employment in a high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand profession, with an entrepreneurial mindset. Learn more about this initiative at knoxschools.org/academies.