Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

Groundbreaking Nuclear Energy Course Prepares L&N STEM Academy Students for Future Careers

L&N STEM Academy launched a groundbreaking nuclear energy class, marking a significant milestone in high school education. 

Led by teacher Brooke Carter, the course is the first of its kind in Tennessee at the high school level, offering students a unique opportunity to dive into nuclear physics and engineering.

The school acquired new lab equipment last year, and the interested students took part in a self-exploratory trial run of the class, which then evolved into a full course with structured content and standards. 

“The first half of the year is focused on nuclear physics, and the second half transitions into nuclear engineering, emphasizing safety and real-world applications,” she added.

This course is particularly valuable to students interested in fields like engineering, physics, and nuclear science.

“It’s a lot of prep for college. We’re using university-level textbooks, which makes me feel like this class is setting me up for success in college,” junior Griffin Cook said. “It makes me excited because I am a part of the start of something great.”

Cook noted the class has brought together a group of like-minded students.

“It’s more niche, but it’s something specific to what we want to do in college and provides a good environment for us to explore this together,” Cook said. 

Kaylen Teague, another junior at L&N STEM Academy, echoed Cook’s sentiments. 

“I came to this school for more science, engineering, and technology classes,” Teague said. “I’m really glad I have this opportunity because I want to be a nuclear engineer.”

This initiative not only equips students with advanced knowledge but also aligns with the 865 Academies‘ mission to prepare students for life after high school by offering real-world, career-aligned experiences.

As Carter emphasized, “Even if these students don’t pursue a career in nuclear physics or engineering, I hope this helps them develop lifelong learning and problem-solving skills.”

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 careers, KCS empowers students to confidently approach their future, prepared for the three Es: employment, enrollment, or enlistment.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Great Educators, Student Success

Newcomer Academy to Transform Lives of ELL Students in Knox County

Knox County Schools is set to launch its Newcomer Academy in late fall 2024, offering a transformative opportunity for English Language Learners (ELL) with interrupted formal education. 

The academy located at Lincoln Park aims to provide intensive support to assist the students in meeting academic goals before returning to their base high schools.

The need for the Newcomer Academy became apparent as district principals raised concerns about students entering high school with few or no credits who had limited English proficiency and disrupted educational backgrounds. 

“We are seeing an increased enrollment of students who are identified as SIFE, or students with interrupted formal education,” said Director of Student Supports Alicia Jones. “When they come to us at that age, wanting to be in school, what do we need to do to support them? That’s really where the idea started.”

After years of planning, the Newcomer Academy will finally open its doors to provide these students with a pathway to academic success. 

“Since the inception of this idea, our population has doubled if not tripled. We are currently serving about 5,400 ELL students who speak 123 different languages,” Jones said. 

The program will offer a structured environment to build both their language and academic skills.

Principal of Paul Kelley Volunteer Academy Dr. Sofia Roth will lead the Newcomer Academy and emphasized the importance of meeting the students where they are, both linguistically and academically. 

“As far as the programming, they’re going to learn the same thing that everyone else is learning at the same time, just at a different school,” Roth said. “Now we’re adding a second language.”

The curriculum will include essential courses like Algebra I, alongside a Freshman Seminar, which will help students transition smoothly back to their base schools and engage with the district’s 865 Academies initiative.

Roth also stressed the importance of creating a sense of belonging and connection for the students.

“They will have the wraparound support from the staff. Everybody’s rooting for them and making sure they have specialized services,” Roth said. “It’s very important to give them a place to belong.”

The academy’s holistic approach aims to prepare students not just academically, but also socially and emotionally, setting them up for long-term success. 

“I’ve always told the students education is the most important thing you can do for yourself. It is the only thing that no one can take away from you, whether you stay here in the United States or go back to your home country,” Roth said. “Having a high school diploma and learning English is going to completely change your life.”

With a committed team of educators and leaders, Knox County Schools’ Newcomer Academy is poised to become a beacon of hope for ELL students with interrupted education, providing them with the skills and support they need to thrive. 

As Alicia Jones said, “This is Success for Every Student in action. We are making sure we’re providing support for every student, every single day. I’m really excited to see their growth and transform some families’ lives by having their students obtain a diploma.”

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

Farragut High Ambassadors Reflect on 865 Academies Experience

The 865 Academies have been pivotal in shaping the academic and career aspirations of students like Farragut High’s Jane Davanzo, Camille Faugot, and Rebecca Pack. 

These student ambassadors shared their diverse experiences and the unique opportunities the academies have provided, contributing to their growth and career outlooks.

For Davanzo, the journey began with a keen interest in construction, a field she was eager to explore more deeply. 

“Initially, I thought the academies would be an opportunity to get into construction because it’s a hard class to get into,” Davanzo said. “But once I started, it really gave me a sense of community with my teachers and peers. 

Faugot had a different starting point. Coming from a homeschooling background, the transition to public school was a new experience in itself. 

The Freshman Academy introduced her to the structure and opportunities within the 865 Academies. 

“I didn’t really know what the academies were until the first day of school, where we learned about the freshman seminar class and the overall program,” she said. 

For Faugot, the Freshman Academy provided a seamless transition into the broader school environment and allowed her to explore potential career paths.

Pack, on the other hand, entered the program with a clear interest in business management. The 865 Academies helped her refine this interest and consider career options. 

“When I came in freshman year, I knew I wanted to do something in business, but the program suggested various paths like marketing and management, which expanded my horizons,” Pack shared.

The 865 Academies don’t just focus on classroom learning. They offer practical experiences that prepare students for their future careers. 

Davanzo highlighted her experience in the construction pathway, where she became OSHA-10 certified and learned the intricacies of tool safety and usage. She also mentioned impactful field trips, such as visiting commercial construction sites and businesses, which provided real-world insights into different industries.

Similarly, Faugot gained valuable certification in CPR through her health science classes, while Pack benefited from business-related field trips and networking opportunities. 

These experiences have not only enriched their educational journey but also equipped them with practical skills and certifications that will be beneficial in their future careers.

The program’s emphasis on work-based learning and internships further enhances the students’ readiness for the workforce. 

Davanzo is looking forward to potential internships in residential renovations, while Faugot is excited about a work-based learning opportunity that will allow her to gain practical experience in a medical setting.

Beyond academics and career preparation, the 865 Academies have also fostered personal growth among students. 

Davanzo emphasized how the program helped her build confidence, especially as she ventured into a male-dominated field like construction. 

“I was too scared to take construction freshman year, but the program helped me gain confidence and embrace my passion,” she said. 

Faugot and Pack echoed similar sentiments, noting how their involvement in the academies and the ambassador program helped them develop public speaking skills and a stronger sense of community.

The ambassador program itself has been a highlight for these students, allowing them to engage more deeply with the school community and develop leadership skills. 

“Being an ambassador has helped me grow closer to the staff and feel more welcomed at school,” Pack noted. Faugot added that the program provided a platform to help new students transition smoothly into high school life.

The 865 Academies have significantly impacted the students at Farragut High School, providing them with valuable academic, practical, and personal development opportunities. These experiences have not only shaped their career outlooks but also prepared them to confidently pursue their future aspirations.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Community Partners

Karns High Artists Give Back to Karns Pre-K Through Mural

The Karns High School art department recently teamed up with Karns Pre-K to breathe new life into their building.

Spearheaded by Karns Pre-K Principal Jason Harris, the project aimed to create a welcoming atmosphere for students and parents at the school’s entrance, marking the beginning of a colorful transformation for the entire building. 

Harris envisioned a space that exuded warmth and cheerfulness, especially for the district’s youngest students and their families entering school for the first time. 

“A lot of times, a student starting in Pre-K is a family’s first interaction with Knox County Schools, and we want to make a good first impression,” he said. “I hope we can continue working throughout the school to create colorful, whimsical murals that showcase Knoxville and the Karns community on our walls.”

Recognizing the potential of his community’s artistic talents, Harris reached out to the Karns High School art department to propose a collaboration.

Kevin Gentry, the art teacher at Karns High School, organized a team of dedicated student artists who embarked on the journey to bring Harris’s vision to life. 

“The building needed some visual enhancements, especially when people first come into the lobby,” Gentry said. “I pitched the idea to our students in the National Art Honor Society because part of the purpose of that group is to serve through the arts.”

Students began brainstorming ideas in August to share with the staff at the preschool based on the initial concepts presented by Harris. 

“I drew the design digitally and sent that in to get everyone’s opinions, and then we took those critiques and made changes,” said student artist Isabella Hunt. “They wanted cartoons and children’s books. It was hard at first because we didn’t want to copy ideas or characters from books, but I think we did really well making it look cartoony and welcoming.”

The project presented a novel opportunity for the students involved, marking their first experiences working on a mural. 

“There was a really good learning curve because we’ve never done anything like this before,” said Reece Peacock, another student artist. “We had to get the proportions and colors right before we started painting. It turned out really nice for our first time.” 

The artists reflected on the significance of leaving a lasting imprint on their community, envisioning future generations marveling at the mural and reminiscing about its creation.

“I can imagine being grown up and telling my kids about how I painted the mural at their school,” Peacock said. “It’s so cool to know that people could possibly see your art every day for forever.”

The completion of the mural not only signifies the culmination of months of hard work but also heralds a new chapter in the collaborative relationship between Karns High School and Karns Pre-K, an embodiment of the Karns community spirit.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Community Partners

Pellissippi State Community College: Empowering Students for the Future

Pellissippi State Community College stands as a hub of opportunity for students, offering a diverse array of programs and support for student success. 

One of the cornerstones of Pellissippi State’s offerings is its comprehensive range of programs designed to meet the needs of a diverse student body. 

Samira Abdalla, an entrepreneurship and business faculty member, highlights the college’s commitment to providing practical, career-oriented education. 

“The program is designed to take a future founder from a back-of-the-napkin idea to the next level,” she said. “It’s really hands-on, and through TnCIS, allows students to travel domestically or internationally to get exposure to other businesses and cultural experiences.”

Emily Ridings, a student in the civil engineering technology program, supports the idea that Pellissippi State offers unique chances for students to experience firsthand learning to prepare them for the field. 

“One of the biggest things I admire about this program is you get a lot of different aspects to try out in the industry,” she said. “There are so many hands-on opportunities that help when you get out in the field, and they really want to help you learn.”

Pellissippi State goes beyond academics by providing robust support services to ensure student success.

Dr. Angel Hughes, who oversees the University Parallel program, emphasizes the college’s dedication to student development. 

“One of the things we want to do is think about the larger student experience at Pellissippi State, and that includes being sure we reach into high schools and help students realize that college is attainable and that we have great pathways and programs for them that will fulfill their interest and help lead them into a great career,” she said. “We have the kind of student supports and services that I would have only dreamed of as a college student. We have support for any kind of barrier that a student may face, and I want them to see that college is a place for all people.”

Leigh Anne Touzeau, the assistant vice president for enrollment services, highlight’s the college’s dedication to finding the right place on campus for students.

“We hope to expose students to all the different programs and career options we have at Pellissippi,” she said. “A lot of students, especially as they enter high school, don’t know exactly what careers are out there, and we try to immerse them to bite-size pieces of information so they can learn about those careers to further motivate them to go past high school.”

Pellissippi State Community College stands out as a premier institution committed to empowering students through its programs, support services, and opportunities. 

With a focus on academic excellence, student development, and experiential learning, Pellissippi State equips students with the tools they need to succeed in their academic and professional endeavors. The college continues to shape the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Student Success

HVA Seniors Preparing for Their Journey into Education

A group of passionate high school seniors from the Hardin Valley Academy Teaching as a Profession (TAP) program gathered for a Future Teacher Signing, ready to pursue their aspirations in the classroom.

Each student has a unique story that led them to follow this path and dedicate their careers to shaping young minds and making a difference in the lives of students.

For some, like Kenna McKaig, volunteering with childcare at her church ignited a passion for working with children. Her unwavering commitment to the younger students has been a driving force behind her decision to become a special education teacher. 

Similarly, Madison Standifer discovered her calling during her eighth-grade year, realizing her affinity for interacting with middle schoolers and fostering a love for studying English and language arts.

Others, like Kayla Ramsey, found inspiration from her mother who is an educator, following in her footsteps while also embracing the nurturing aspect of teaching. 

Molly Glenn fell in love with teachers’ ability to influence their students’ lives and stand as a positive example for those at a young age.

Throughout their high school years, these students have immersed themselves in classroom experiences, gaining invaluable insights from experienced educators and honing their teaching skills.

From field experiences in elementary schools to shadowing special education classes, the TAP program has provided these students with hands-on learning opportunities that extend beyond traditional classroom settings. 

“Our pathway truly sets us up for success,” Standifer said. “We learn the fundamentals and different parts of the education career that aren’t just teaching in a classroom. We will be learning about learning styles and how students’ brains operate.”

They are given the unique opportunity to assist with lesson plans, engage with students one-on-one, and witness the internal workings of school cultures, and each experience has reinforced their passion for teaching.

“Once you start to get to know the class, some of the kids start to warm up to you, and it’s always my favorite when they run and hug me in the morning,” Ramsey said. “It’s so sweet when they start telling me their stories from when they were at home or what they did over the weekend.”

McKaig agreed that the personal relationships formed with students can be the most gratifying, stating, “It’s really fun when, after a while, some of the kids who were usually pretty shy started asking to work with me.”

Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding education, these seniors remain steadfast in their dedication. 

They acknowledge the hardships faced by educators, but they also find solace in the impactful moments that reaffirm their choice to pursue teaching.

“I know it is really hard, but I also know it’s a really good place to be when you have a heart for loving kids,” Glenn said.

At the signing event, KCS Executive Director of HR Talent Acquisition Alex Moseman made an exciting announcement, further solidifying their path in education as all participants in the TAP program are guaranteed interviews with KCS upon graduation. 

This recognition serves as a testament to these students’ preparedness to embark on their teaching careers.

Looking ahead, the nine TAP seniors are eager to continue their education, with plans to attend Pellissippi State, Tennessee Tech, Sanford University, ETSU, UTC, and Lee University.

Their participation in the TAP program not only prepared them academically but also equipped them with practical skills and a deep understanding of the teaching profession.

As they prepare to step into classrooms of their own, these high school seniors stand poised to make a meaningful impact on future generations.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

JROTC Cadets Earn Full-Ride Army ROTC Scholarships

Two exceptional JROTC cadets from South-Doyle High School have achieved a remarkable milestone by securing full-ride Army ROTC scholarships, paving the way for their college education without the burden of financial strain. 

Zach Barrier and Sam Trumpore, both deeply committed to serving their country, will be attending Carson-Newman University together, embarking on their journeys toward becoming officers in the United States Army.

For Barrier, the legacy of military service runs deep within his family, stretching back to the Revolutionary War. 

“It’s kind of a family legacy,” Barrier said. “It feels like I’m part of something bigger than myself.”

With an interest in becoming a physical therapist, Barrier recognizes the scholarship’s value not only in alleviating financial stress but also in providing a secure future with a fulfilling career.

Trumpore’s motivation stems from the career prospects and the opportunity to serve his country, and he views the scholarship as a gateway to pursuing his passion for criminal justice, with aspirations of attending law school post-graduation. 

His journey through JROTC has not only instilled discipline and work ethic but has also served as a catalyst for personal growth, transforming him from a reserved kid to a confident leader.

“It’s really opened my eyes to how much I can do if I just put my mind to it,” Trumpore said. “It helps you build a work ethic and learn to stay committed to things.”

Both cadets credit their involvement in JROTC for shaping their character and providing invaluable leadership experiences. 

Barrier, who has held various leadership positions within the program, highlights the program’s impact on his athletic pursuits, enhancing his performance on the baseball team and fostering a sense of camaraderie among his peers. 

Trumpore emphasizes the transformative power of JROTC, which not only helped him discover his passion for running but also equipped him with the resilience and determination necessary to overcome challenges.

Retired Maj. Marcus Vartan, the JROTC instructor, highlights the program’s primary objective of nurturing well-rounded individuals who are committed to serving their communities. 

Through extensive community service initiatives, including Civil War cemetery clean-ups and food bank volunteering, cadets are instilled with a sense of civic duty and empathy, preparing them for future leadership roles. 

“Our mission is to motivate young people to be better citizens,” Vartan said. “And we see that mostly through community service, in becoming good teammates, and working as a team.”

This year’s service learning project was working to solve food insecurity in East Tennessee through partnerships with Beardsley Farms and Second Harvest Food Bank. 

On campus, their continuous improvement project had the battalion renovate an old rugby shed into usable conference rooms, study spaces, and a weight room for the cadets.

The Cherokee Battalion also set the JROTC national record two years ago for the most flags retired: 6,132 in total. 

These projects are just the beginning of the program’s involvement in their community and school. 

Vartan emphasizes the significance of the Army ROTC scholarships in recognizing cadets’ academic, athletic, and leadership achievements, and last year, South-Doyle had a record of three cadets who earned the coveted scholarship. 

As Barrier and Trumpore embark on their college journeys, they epitomize the values of dedication, service, and leadership instilled by the JROTC program.

With the support of the Army ROTC scholarships, they are poised to make significant contributions to their communities and nation while pursuing their academic and professional aspirations.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

Paving Pathways to Healthcare Careers and Beyond: Roane State and the 865 Academies

Roane State Community College (RSCC) prepares students across the region to pursue their dream careers, and Knox County Schools and the 865 Academies created an innovative partnership to provide students with immersive experiences and insights into potential postsecondary pathways. 

The Assistant Director of Recruiting at Roane State’s Oak Ridge Campus, Stephanie Bishop, discusses the college’s involvement in the 865 Academies.

“Our goal with these is getting the program directors involved in showcasing their offerings and helping students make those connections between the pathway they’ve chosen and the material they will learn to see if it’s something that is of interest to them,” Bishop said. “I know there have been a few students who have toured our campus so far that have found opportunities that they didn’t know were available before.”

Roane State’s commitment to providing tailored educational experiences for high school, college, and adult learners highlights its dedication to meeting workforce needs and fostering career exploration and readiness, a similar goal to the 865 Academies.

Recently, a group of students visited the RSCC Oak Ridge Campus for a hands-on showcase of the diverse offerings available to students. This particular tour focused on the pathways available in the health sciences with looks into the nursing, health information management (HIM), medical laboratory technician (MLT), and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) programs.

“We like to take our students into the nursing lab with the mannequins that will breathe, have heartbeats, and do other things, and we give some demonstrations that show what they might do in class,” said Michelle Cash, the nursing program director.

HIM Program Director April Insco highlighted how her program works to prepare students for a career in healthcare on the medical coding and patient informatics side.

“We are one of only four programs in the state accredited through CAHIIM,” Insco said. The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) allows students to become Registered Health Information Technicians.

The MLT program at Roane State plays a vital role by training students to perform diagnostic tests on patient samples. 

“It’s a very rigorous program, but this is the perfect place for someone who wants to make a difference and be in healthcare but wants to be more behind the scenes,” said Madeline Hibbard, the MLT program director.

The Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Roane State focuses on helping individuals achieve greater independence in daily activities. 

Cindy Ayo, the interim OTA program director, highlights the diverse range of activities OTAs engage in, stating, “Don’t let the title fool you.”

“I worked with individuals who have been injured to get them back to a place so they can return to their job, but I’ve also worked with people to learn to brush their hair again or taught infants how to roll over and crawl or coached children on their handwriting,” Ayo said. “Occupational therapy is so much more than what people think it is.”

All the program directors from these fields emphasized the need for high-quality, educated professionals in healthcare, and students throughout Knox County Schools can begin their exploration of health science at almost any high school in the district. 

Learn more at knoxschools.org/academies.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Community Partners

Johnson University and The 865 Academies Forge Pathways to Success

Expanding on the partnership between Johnson University (JU) and Knox County Schools’ 865 Academies provides an excellent opportunity to showcase the mutually beneficial relationship between the institutions and the positive impact it has on students’ educational experiences.

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Johnson University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and community engagement. With a commitment to innovation and expansion, JU has eagerly embraced the opportunity to collaborate with the 865 Academies, which is revolutionizing the high school experience for students across the district.

Since its inception in 2023, the 865 Academies has aimed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of post-secondary options, including college tours designed to offer firsthand insights into campus life. Recognizing the value of this initiative, Johnson University opened its doors to welcome students from Knox County Schools, inviting them to explore its vibrant campus, diverse programming, and close-knit community.

Johnson University Chief Academic Officer Lisa Tarwater expressed excitement about the partnership.

“To see it all come together and be part of the partnership with Knox County Schools is a truly exciting opportunity for us to engage with students and help shape their educational journey,” she said. “We are thrilled to play a role in each student’s decision-making process.”

The campus tours organized by Johnson University are tailored to cater to students’ interests across a wide range of disciplines, including education, business, health sciences, and creative arts. 

JU Recruitment Coordinator Amber Cofer emphasized the value of these personalized visits.

“These tailored visits help students actually see what they could be doing in a hands-on environment in our classrooms,” she said.

Faculty members at Johnson University actively participate in these tours, eager to support students in making informed decisions about their future endeavors. 

Associate Professor of Business and Leadership Dr. John Stricklen applauds the 865 Academies’ inclusive approach, which extends beyond traditional college-bound pathways.

“I love that the Academies do not focus exclusively on college-bound opportunities. There is a tremendous need for skilled tradespeople, and this gives students an opportunity to see and experience what different careers could look like,” he said.

The partnership between Johnson University and the 865 Academies underscores a shared commitment to student success and academic excellence. By providing students with immersive campus experiences and diverse educational pathways, this collaboration enriches the educational landscape of Knox County and prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

JoAnna Brooks: A Journey through Karns High School as an 865 Academies Ambassador

Karns High School has been witnessing a transformative shift in its educational landscape through the innovative 865 Academies system, and at the heart of this change is student JoAnna Brooks. 

Brooks, a sophomore at Karns High, is making waves as an 865 Academies Ambassador, representing the Academy of Health Science and Human Services.

Choosing this Academy wasn’t a random decision for Brooks; it stemmed from her genuine interest in science, particularly in the intricacies of health and neurology. Her passion for understanding the human brain and its functions drives her academic pursuits. 

“There’s so much that goes on in the brain,” Brooks said. “Right now in my health science classes, we’re learning about different systems and how the brain functions with those systems, and I think it’s all really cool.”

Through her Academy courses, Brooks has had unique opportunities to explore various healthcare facilities, including visits to South College and UTMC.

Beyond her academic endeavors, JoAnna actively participates in extracurricular activities, including the school band and the Scholars Bowl, showcasing her diverse interests and talents. Her involvement in the Scholars Bowl reflects her penchant for intellectual challenges and problem-solving.

As an 865 Academies Ambassador, Brooks takes pride in representing her Academy and guiding prospective students through the school’s offerings. She finds fulfillment in mentoring freshmen and providing them insights into successfully navigating high school.

“It’s helped me so much to speak up and be confident in what I’m talking about,” Brooks said. “I love giving tours to the 8th-graders and helping with the pathway fairs to show the freshmen what all they can do here.”

Her parents, including her mother Mary Brooks, the Academy Coach at Karns High, provide unwavering support and encouragement, fostering an environment where her daughter feels empowered to explore her interests and aspirations freely.

“She’s a go-getter,” Mary Brooks said. “And the Academies are helping her a lot. She has changed so much from middle school to high school; I’m so proud of her.”

JoAnna’s story epitomizes the essence of the 865 Academies — a platform for students to discover their passions, pursue their aspirations, and prepare for future success. 

Through her dedication, resilience, and leadership as an 865 Academies Ambassador, JoAnna Brooks embodies the spirit of striving for success and excellence.

As JoAnna continues her academic journey, her impact as a student leader and aspiring neuroscientist will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy within the Karns High School community and beyond. 

With her unwavering determination and boundless potential, JoAnna Brooks is poised to make a significant mark in healthcare and academia.