Kaleigh Walker Student Success

Quarterly Data Days Improve Outcomes for Students with Disabilities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s not punitive — it’s collaborative.

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

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

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

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

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

Success for Every Student

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

Kaleigh Walker Community Partners, Student Success

Big Brothers Big Sisters Launches High School Mentoring Program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Success for Every Student

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

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Career Empowerment and Preparation

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

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Her advice to younger students? 

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

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

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

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

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

Career Empowerment and Preparation

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

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.

Kaleigh Walker Student Success

Every CMA Student Receives a Book for One School Read

Career Magnet Academy is taking strides to build a culture of literacy through its innovative One School Read initiative. 

Spearheaded by CMA Principal Dr. Charlene Lewis, this program has provided every student and educator at the school with a copy of Refugee by Alan Gratz. The initiative, funded in part by the Dollar General Youth Literacy grant, was created to inspire lifelong readers and create a love of literature throughout the school.

“At first, I was only going to focus on ninth grade,” she explained. “But the more I talked to the teachers, they were like, ‘Is it only for ninth grade?’” 

Recognizing the enthusiasm among her staff, Dr. Lewis expanded the initiative to include the entire school.

This program encourages silent and sustained reading during advisory periods. 

“These kids are amazing. They read all the time,” Dr. Lewis shared. “My librarian, who came from a larger school, was amazed at how engaged the students are in reading, even at a smaller school.”

Dr. Lewis drew inspiration for the program from her previous experience at Northwest Middle School, where she implemented a similar initiative tailored to her students’ diverse backgrounds. This time at CMA, the focus is on building a school-wide reading culture aligned with the district’s Excellence in Foundational Skills priority.

Beyond reading, the program integrates writing and critical thinking. Teachers created a specialized packet tied to the book’s themes, where students submit weekly answers. 

Additionally, personalized passports help students track their progress and earn incentives.

“It’s more than just reading,” Dr. Lewis emphasized. “We want students to learn how to write, take focused notes, and practice the skill of sitting still and reading. It’s a chance to unplug, escape, and learn about different cultures.”

The initiative has been a collaborative effort, with enthusiastic support from educators and students alike. By making reading a shared experience, CMA is not only promoting literacy but also building a stronger, more connected school community.

Excellence in Foundational Skills

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

Kaleigh Walker Student Success

Introducing Knox County Schools’ New Preschool Parent Liaison

This school year, Knox County Schools welcomed a brand-new position designed to support families with young learners: the Preschool Parent Liaison. 

Jenny Reed, Preschool Special Education Facilitator & Parent Liaison, serves in this critical role to help families navigate special education preschool services and the transition to kindergarten.

Recognizing the need for early intervention and strong family connections, this position was created to provide support for families of preschool-age students.

Working closely with the Child Find team, Jenny helps families transitioning from Tennessee Early Intervention Services (TEIS) for students aged birth to three. 

She supports families as their students turn three, explaining the school system’s evaluation process, assisting with eligibility and Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, and ensuring that families understand their options for continued services.

“One of the most important parts of my job is making sure families feel comfortable and informed,” Jenny shared. “The transition to preschool can feel overwhelming, and I’m here to guide them through every step of the process.”

Jenny’s role extends beyond meetings. She organizes and facilitates trainings for families, offering strategies to support their student’s behavior, communication, and independence at home. 

She also sends monthly newsletters to families, packed with resources, upcoming training dates, and tips for navigating early education services. Last fall alone, Jenny facilitated over 100 family meetings and supported over 50 families with eligibility and IEP processes.

“I want families to know they are not alone,” Jenny emphasized. “We’re here to partner with them and ensure their students have the best start possible.”

Upcoming events include:

  • Ready, Set, Kindergarten: A Parent’s Guide to a Smooth Transition on January 23, 5-6:30 p.m. at Cedar Bluff Elementary. Open to kindergarten-eligible students, this session covers transition tips, a typical kindergarten day, and strategies to prepare students socially, emotionally, and academically. Sign up here!
  • A Spanish-language version of this session will be held on February 13. Sign up here!
  • Adapted More Than Words: The Hanen Program for Parents of Autistic Children or Children Who May Benefit from Social Communication Support offered via Telepractice, a program focused on building communication skills for autistic students, will offer five online group sessions and two one-on-one video feedback sessions this spring.

Families can reach out to Jenny Reed with questions at 865-594-1530 or jenny.reed@knoxschools.org.

Together, let’s empower families and set our youngest learners up for success!

Success for Every Student

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

Kaleigh Walker Community Partners, Student Success

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 Student Success

KCS High Schools Celebrate Historic Inaugural Flag Football Season

Fourteen Knox County high schools made history this fall by participating in the inaugural girls’ flag football season, part of a statewide initiative supported by the Tennessee Titans.

Tennessee became the 10th state to sanction high school girls’ flag football, with the Titans providing grants to help schools launch their programs.

The initiative has been a game-changer for KCS, giving female athletes an opportunity to compete in a fast-paced, dynamic sport.

For many players, including Austin-East senior Danezia Cranford, flag football offered a unique way to channel their athletic abilities. 

“I’m just an athletic person, and football is fun. I also do track,” Cranford said. “It’s been a great season playing with my teammates”

The support from the community and the Titans’ grant funding played a significant role in making the season a success. 

“Our first game had over 150 people there,” said Austin-East Coach Aryiane Carrington. “To look up and see everybody was amazing. The community has really shown love to these girls, just like they do for the boys.”

The turnout for tryouts showed the enthusiasm for the sport, with Austin-East alone seeing 45 girls vying for spots on the team. 

“Most of the kids that came out for it had never done any sports at all,” Carrington shared. “They’re learning how athletes have to train, what they go through mentally and physically, all while keeping up with schoolwork.”

The benefits of flag football extended beyond the field. Taylor Cobb, a player for Austin-East, noted the camaraderie built among teammates. 

“We all coordinate well. It gives us the opportunity to meet new people,” she said.

The future of girls’ flag football in Tennessee looks bright, thanks to the support of schools, communities, and the Titans’ vision to grow the sport.

Congratulations to the following schools for participating in the inaugural girls’ flag football season:

Austin-East Magnet High School
Bearden High School
Career Magnet Academy
Carter High School
Central High School
Farragut High School
Fulton High School

Gibbs High School
Halls High School
Hardin Valley Academy
Karns High School
Powell High School
South-Doyle High School
West High School

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, Student Success

KCS Earns Statewide Honors for Financial Literacy Leadership in the Classroom

Knox County Schools is leading the way in financial literacy education thanks to the dedicated efforts of KCS Social Studies Supervisor Katherine Shultz, Region 1 Social Studies Facilitator Angie Maxey, and Northshore Elementary 1st grade teacher Alison Thompson. 

Their work recently earned the district the prestigious Platinum Leadership Award from the Tennessee Financial Literacy Commission, marking significant strides in equipping young students with essential financial skills.

The journey began with Alison Thompson, who introduced financial literacy concepts in her classroom by utilizing the Tennessee State Museum’s “traveling trunk” program. 

This resource kit, filled with hands-on learning materials, encouraged students to explore basic financial concepts through engaging activities. 

Thompson tailored the trunk’s resources for her first graders, incorporating pictures of items with price tags and play money to make the lesson relatable. 

“Kids need that hands-on activity,” Thompson explained. “They’re learning to save, spend, and budget. It’s a part of our adult life, so it should be a part of their life as well.”

Thompson’s approach caught the attention of Angie Maxey, the Region 1 Social Studies Facilitator, who was inspired by what she saw in Thompson’s classroom. 

“She saw this in action and was so impressed,” noted Katherine Shultz. “At the beginning of the summer, we decided this was so supportive of our econ standards in our early elementary grades that we wanted to host district-wide professional development on the subject.”

Thompson’s work, combined with KCS’s commitment to financial education, led to the district being recognized at the state level.

Shultz and Maxey represented the district at the Tennessee Financial Literacy Commission’s award reception in Nashville.

“It was a huge honor. That work was recognized and our efforts were applauded,” Shultz shared. “It’s a good thing for our students, and they are benefiting from it.”

Teachers who are interested in learning more about incorporating financial literacy in their classrooms can visit the Tennessee Department of Treasury website.

Excellence in Foundational Skills

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