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 Community Partners, Student Success

Knox County’s First Female Wrestling Head Coach: Meet Chloe Padilla

In a historic move, Chloe Padilla has stepped in as Central High School‘s head coach of the wrestling program, becoming the first female head coach of boys’ wrestling in Knox County. 

Padilla, a Central alumna with deep ties to the school and community, brings a unique combination of expertise, experience, and determination to create a legacy program for Central’s wrestlers.

Padilla’s path to head coach came after learning the program lacked leadership. 

“I approached the athletic director and said, ‘I can build a program here. We have the resources, the space, and the coaching talent to take wrestling at Central to the next level,’” Padilla said.

Padilla’s proposal was simple but game-changing: Central wrestlers could train at FBS Combat Club, where they’d have access to proper facilities, a dedicated training staff, and year-round conditioning. The program now has a professional foundation from which to grow.

“What excites me the most is building a program that’s strong, cohesive, and recognized for its excellence,” Padilla said. “Central has never had a state champion wrestler, and my goal is to change that.”

Padilla’s high expectations for her athletes reflect her passion for both the sport and the students she coaches. Her program emphasizes team camaraderie and discipline, giving the wrestlers a sense of pride.

“If they have a match, I require that they wear their hoodies to school that day. They all love it, and they take pictures together,” she said. “It’s about building something bigger than just wins on the mat.”

As a woman in a male-dominated field, Padilla’s leadership stands as an inspiring example of trailblazing determination. Her journey to this role reflects a lifelong commitment to fitness, martial arts, and coaching. 

Growing up immersed in the gym business alongside her father, Frankie Padilla, Chloe focused on gym management and martial arts training full-time following her graduation from the University of Tennessee.

When COVID-19 disrupted traditional training options, Padilla channeled her passion for martial arts into founding FBS Combat Club, a gym that offers Brazilian jiu-jitsu, mixed martial arts, wrestling, kickboxing, and youth classes.

Today, she runs the successful program alongside state champion wrestlers Krickett Jones and Trevor Linderman, who serve as her assistant coaches. Together, they bring high-level training to Central’s wrestling team.

Padilla’s connections to Central run deep—her great-great-grandfather, Weenie Winegar, was a celebrated girls’ basketball coach at Central High School.

Today, Padilla is proud to continue that legacy of leadership. 

“I have such strong roots here,” Padilla said. “My family’s history is part of Central’s history, and I want to give back by building a program the community can be proud of.”

With a team comprised mostly of freshmen, Padilla sees this year as a foundation for what’s to come. 

“You better watch out,” she said. “We’re coming, and we’re building something special.”

As Chloe Padilla steps into her role as Central’s head wrestling coach, she brings more than just a plan to win—she brings a vision to transform the program for years to come. Her inaugural year marks a new chapter for Central High School and a historic moment for Knox County.

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

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 Community Partners, Student Success, Student Supports

Music Education Enhanced with Generous Instrument Donations

Three Knoxville-area middle schools will be playing in harmony, thanks to a generous donation from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and the CMA Foundation.

Bearden Middle, Gresham Middle, and Vine Middle Magnet have been gifted musical instruments valued at over $180,000, enriching the musical experiences of students and supporting the importance of incorporating music into school curriculums.

Bearden Middle School received instruments including violins, violas, cellos, and double basses, with a total donation value of $26,208. 

Orchestra director Rachel Peña expresses her gratitude, stating, “Each instrument is an opportunity for each student to work on their talent and skills. This builds up their self-esteem and what they consider possible in the future.” She continued, “Every instrument we received is a new opportunity for a student to experience how music changes our lives.”

Bearden Middle School’s instrument unveiling on Friday, April 26, with special guest Carly Pearce.

Gresham Middle School’s music program was bolstered by donations totaling $100,358, comprising a diverse array of instruments from flutes and clarinets to brass and percussion. 

“I am most excited that now all students will be able to play an instrument just for them! So many of my students were sharing an instrument with another student, and now they get to use one that is all their own,” said GMS band director Gracie Alward. “I love the culture we have established within the band program. Band is a place unlike any other in the school building, and I think they are beginning to find their place here in the band room.”

Gresham Middle School’s instrument unboxing on Tuesday, April 23.

Vine Middle Magnet School, with a donation value of $55,044, will benefit from instruments spanning woodwinds, brass, and percussion, including a concert bass drum and xylophone. 

“Vine Middle Magnet School’s band aims to teach students the confidence, discipline, and independence to reach their individual musical potential,” said band director Jessica Huffaker. “The CMA Foundation and Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation has gifted the VMMS band with the needed resources to accommodate increased band enrollment, allowing all interested students the opportunity to pursue their instrumental music education.”

Vine Middle Magnet School’s instrument unboxing on Friday, April 19.

The impact of these donations extends far beyond the classroom. They provide opportunities for more students to participate in ensemble performances and competitions, instilling a sense of pride and accomplishment. They also ensure inclusivity by removing financial barriers that may prevent students from pursuing their musical interests.

The collaboration between The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and the CMA Foundation exemplifies the power of partnerships in supporting arts education. Their commitment to providing resources and instruments to schools across the nation amplifies the vital role of music in the development of students. 

As these instruments find their home in the music rooms of Bearden, Gresham, and Vine, they represent not just material possessions, but symbols of growth, opportunity, and the transformative power of music in the lives of students. 

With every note played, they remind us of the importance of nurturing the artistic talents of the next generation.

Kaleigh Walker Community Partners

New Playspaces Break Ground at KAEC and Fair Garden

In December 2023, the Knox Education Foundation (KEF) announced the establishment of the Playspace Fund, a private-public fund formed to address the inconsistencies in play spaces across Knox County Schools. 

The Knoxville Adaptive Education Center (KAEC) and the Fair Garden Family Center are among the seven schools designated to benefit from Phase 1 of the Playspace Fund, and work is already underway at KAEC. 

“I met with KEF and found out that KAEC was chosen to go in this first round of playgrounds,” said Ashley Ketner, KAEC principal. “I got to see the plans that they had for the space, and it was hard for me to not tell anybody for a while because it was pretty exciting.”

Ketner estimated the old playground had been around for 20 years, initially funded by the Friends of KAEC. Now, the space is nearly emptied out, ready for the new installations. 

The entire school–staff and students included–are eagerly awaiting the project’s completion, which is estimated to wrap up before the end of the school year. 

“It’s just nice to have something nice,” Ketner said. “It’s great that they thought of us for this project, and the staff feels that, too.”

Across town, Fair Garden Family Center is next in the queue for playspace upgrades, and Principal Tara Howell-Spikes expressed her gratitude for the community’s involvement in shaping the vision for the new playground.

“I appreciate all the individuals from the East Knoxville Business and Professional Association who came out to get my feedback on what was age-appropriate for preschoolers and shared my concerns about the playground space our kids had,” Howell-Spikes said. “I’m so glad that the vision is finally becoming a reality.”

Their new space will be finished over the summer. What a great way to kick off the new school year!

The playground renovations at both schools are expected to provide vibrant and safe spaces for students to play, learn, and grow, and the KAEC and Fair Garden communities eagerly anticipate the transformation of their play areas, thanks to the support of the Knox Education Foundation and the Playspace Fund.

The other five schools identified in Phase 1 as the highest-need schools in the district–Belle Morris Elementary, Fountain City Elementary, Sarah Moore Greene Magnet Academy, Spring Hill Elementary, and West Haven Elementary–will see their new spaces soon as construction moves forward. 

KEF continues to raise the remaining $2.3 million in funding needed to standardize play spaces across the county. Learn more about this initiative at knoxed.org/play.

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 Career Empowerment, Community Partners

“Real Forrest Gump” Medal of Honor Hero Inspires High School Students

As highly decorated First Class Army sergeant Sammy Lee Davis reached the podium for a visit with the Powell High School junior class, he opened the floor to questions, rather than reciting the eight-page speech he had prepared. 

Powell High School teacher Rusty Smith helped to bring the Medal of Honor recipient to the school in hopes that his students could apply Davis’ story to their lives. 

As an Army private, his unit fell under heavy fire from the Viet Cong. During the attack, he suffered several gunshot wounds and broke his back. Despite the severity of his injuries, Davis crossed a river in waist-high water to retrieve and save the lives of three fellow soldiers.

“That’s one of the reasons why my country awarded me a Medal of Honor,” he said. “I could have not stood up and done the job I needed to do for my brothers, but I knew in my heart they would do it for me.”

Students asked about his life, military service, recovery from physical injuries, and the medals he earned. 

Davis answered with stories from his service during the Vietnam War and about the heroic acts that ultimately earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military medal of valor.

It was this display of courage that inspired some of the film Forrest Gump, in which video of his Medal of Honor ceremony was used with actor Tom Hanks’ head superimposed over Davis’ – ultimately earning him the “Real Forrest Gump” the nickname. 

During the hour of Q&A with the living legend, Davis told a story about trying snake meat for the first time after running out of food in the jungle; shared the first song he learned on the harmonica – “Oh Shanondoah,” which is still one of his favorites; and detailed a meeting with former Vietnamese soldiers that took place only a few years ago. 

“We sat there for almost an hour, not looking at each other, not talking to the Vietnamese troops,” he recalled. “But after a while, I just wanted them to know that I didn’t hate them. I was just a soldier doing my job. And that’s when they said, ‘I feel the same way.’”

Davis told an inquiring student that despite the horrors he saw, the injuries he sustained, and the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) he still battles to this day, he would do it all again if he needed to. 

“Heroes are everyday Americans like us. He doesn’t want all the attention and credit, and to me, that humility goes a long way,” Smith said. “I hope that they could see that some of the qualities and characteristics he has can apply to their own lives.”The biggest lesson for students and community alike? “You don’t lose until you quit trying.”

Kaleigh Walker Community Partners

Principal for a Day Fosters Dynamic Partnerships Between Schools and Community Leaders

The Knox County Principal for a Day event is a time-honored tradition, where school administrators open their doors to community leaders to experience a day in the life of a KCS principal and create partnerships with area leaders.

Over the course of the day, guests may have visited classrooms to observe high-quality teaching and learning, sit in on staff meetings to become immersed in the school culture, or speak to students about their industry experiences.

“We had a great time with our guests highlighting the amazing work that my staff and students do on a daily basis,” said New Hopewell Elementary Principal Sarah Mercer.

A local business professional and an individual running for office spent the day in the South Knoxville school learning from the teachers and providing their expertise.

“We spoke to our partners regarding some of New Hopewell’s current needs, and it was great to hear their perspectives,” Mercer said.

The needs of KCS schools are all different, but many lack volunteers for service projects, funding for positive behavior incentives, or staff to fill support positions. Some needs – like new equipment for gym class or bringing lunch for teachers – can be easily accomplished with the help of a generous person, while others – like a building expansion – take an entire community working together with a conscious effort to make change for their local kids. 

Savannah Price, a real estate agent, said she couldn’t wait to form this partnership with NHES, as her own children will one day attend the school.

“I really want to focus on the whole ‘bloom where you’re planted’ concept,” Price said. “I’m already thinking of all the things I can do in this partnership, like encouraging people to participate in a drive for supplies, or we could sponsor a program, or get the community to rally around our schools, which is a really big deal.”

Following a day at school, principals and their guests attended a luncheon and feedback session where attendees were encouraged to share insights from their visits.

For many, this was the first time they’d been back in a school building since their own high school graduation. For all, the experience was eye-opening.

“The one thing that stood out to me the most was that we’re reaching all of our students,” said Carlos Lopez, the Spanish Voice of the Vols. “That’s really important because, if you’re like me, you’re still trying to find that place where you belong. At Career Magnet Academy, they are giving those students the opportunity to explore many things under the same roof. 

The Partners in Education president, Adam Wilson, also announced a new membership program to encourage business professionals to become more involved in supporting KCS schools. 

“I am most excited about the immediate and far-reaching impact the Partners In Education Membership Program will produce,” Wilson said. “PIE exists to make a difference and we designed this program to be the best way we can impact every student at every school in KCS.”

Organizations can learn more about the PIE Membership Program here, and view a list of KCS school needs here.