Career Empowerment – KCS Hall Pass

March 6, 2025March 5, 2025 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.

February 13, 2025February 13, 2025 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

February 6, 2025February 6, 2025 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

January 30, 2025January 29, 2025 Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Great Educators, Student Success

Growing Minds, Growing Crops: Schools Cultivate Learning Through Hydroponic Gardens

In a blend of education and agriculture, four Knox County Schools are harnessing the power of hydroponic farming.

Thanks to a partnership with the KCS Coordinated School Health team, Gresham Middle, Farragut Intermediate, Halls Elementary, and Carter Elementary are using cutting-edge hydroponic systems to grow crops including cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, mini bell peppers, and basil.

This hands-on learning experience allows students to engage with science, sustainability, and social responsibility in exciting ways.

Before diving into farming, students conducted in-depth research to understand hydroponic techniques and made predictions about plant growth.

They also explored the important role of empathy, with one school planning to donate its produce to an organization that helps supply food to underserved communities in food deserts.

This act of service is teaching students valuable lessons about giving back and making a positive impact on their communities.

For Gresham Middle’s Kimberly Mays, the impact of the hydro farm extends beyond the classroom.

“Our hydroponic farm has been a game changer. Watching our kids take the instruction and teach each other the process has been amazing. Each student plays a vital role in the growth and care of our plants,” Mays said. “The hydro farm has strengthened their teamwork and curiosity about applying classroom ideas to real-world applications.”

In addition to their agricultural work, students integrate lessons from other subjects, like social studies, where they learn about the government’s role in regulating food safety and ensuring that what we eat is safe and healthy.

Some of the crops grown will also be donated to the schools’ cafeterias, further enriching the students’ understanding of how locally-grown food can impact their daily lives.

Gresham Middle took it one step further by making pickles from their bumper crop of cucumbers, turning their harvest into a blend of science, creativity, and food preparation.

Through this project, Knox County Schools are not only teaching students about agriculture and sustainability, but also about empathy, community, and the importance of nourishing both mind and body.

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.

November 14, 2024November 13, 2024 Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

Answering the Call: Fulton High Students Get a Head Start on 911 Dispatch Careers

Fulton High School’s Academy of Public Service is giving students a head start on a career in 911 telecommunication through its work-based learning program, where students gain practical skills and earn a Public Safety Telecommunication certification.

This unique opportunity aligns with the goals of Knox County Schools’ 865 Academies, which are designed to prepare students for high-wage, in-demand jobs following graduation.

For Fulton seniors like Abby Swaggerty, the experience has opened new doors.

“When we were picking our classes freshman year, the Fire Management Services pathway was new,” Abby said. “I thought it’d be fun to venture out and try new stuff. I took every fire, criminal justice, and health class I could.”

Now, after a visit to a 911 call center, Abby is inspired to join the field immediately after graduation.

“This course takes off a full week of training that I won’t have to do after I graduate,” she said. “It definitely gives you a leg up.”

The program not only exposes students to the technical aspects of 911 call-taking and dispatching emergency services but also teaches teamwork, leadership, and communication.

“Our class is like family,” said senior Emma Ricketts. “We have each other to help with our work.”

Abby and Emma plan to become 911 dispatchers, motivated by the hands-on learning environment in the Academy of Public Service.

Melissa Boone, Director of Operations at Knox County 911, emphasizes that 911 dispatching is a stable and rewarding career, especially for students who may not be pursuing college.

“There are more jobs that do not require a college education than there are that do,” she said. “There will always be a need [for 911 dispatchers].”

Boone, who has spent over 35 years in public safety, shared the APCO certification these students earn is internationally recognized and can give them an edge in job applications.

According to Boone, the training experience covers essential skills in call handling, emergency management systems, and dispatch procedures.

“I have a few students interested in coming to work with us, and I wish I could take them today,” she added.

For the students involved, this program at Fulton is more than just a class; it’s a pathway into a career that is meaningful, fulfilling the 865 Academies’ goal of preparing graduates for thriving futures in essential community roles.

Career Empowerment and Preparation

September 19, 2024September 17, 2024 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

September 6, 2024September 5, 2024 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

April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 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.

March 28, 2024March 28, 2024 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.

March 22, 2024March 20, 2024 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.