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, 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

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

First-Generation Students Share Their College Dreams

First-Generation College Student Day celebrates the courage and determination of students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education. This milestone represents more than just academic success; it’s a symbol of resilience, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a brighter future. 

For Knox County seniors Fiona Chen and Saomy Rodriguez, being first-generation college students means embracing the opportunities their families dreamed of and setting a new path for generations to come. Fiona, a student at Gibbs High, and Saomy, a senior at West High, each bring unique perspectives and inspiring goals as they prepare to make their mark on the world. In their stories, we see a shared desire to honor their roots while building futures of their own.

Fiona Chen: Embracing New Horizons

Fiona Chen, a senior at Gibbs High, is ready to pursue her dream of studying international business and public policy. 

With roots in both China and the U.S., Fiona has grown up with a blend of cultures, an experience that has shaped her aspirations. 

“I want to use my bilingual skills to travel and learn about different cultures,” she said. “There’s so much value in understanding what makes cultures the same and different.”

Fiona’s parents immigrated from China to America in search of a better life, working tirelessly to build a family business. Witnessing their dedication has been a powerful motivator. 

“People think owning a business is a dream job, but it’s so demanding,” Fiona said. “I’m grateful for their hard work, but I want to find my own path.”

Fiona’s involvement in DECA has also influenced her college goals. She’s active in business competitions and recently managed social media for her family’s business. 

“DECA taught me so much about networking,” she said. “It’s one of the reasons I’m so excited about majoring in international business.” 

For Fiona, being a first-generation college student means embracing opportunities her family could only dream of.

Saomy Rodriguez: A Future of Service and Connection

As a senior at West High, Saomy Rodriguez has big dreams of joining the Navy and studying chemical engineering and human resources.

Originally from Venezuela, Saomy moved to the U.S. at 14, a transition she describes as challenging but motivating. 

“In my country, I always wanted to join the military, but it wasn’t possible,” she said. “Now, I’m looking forward to exploring the Navy.”

Saomy’s drive to make a difference is deeply personal. Her mother moved to the U.S. due to Venezuela’s political situation, a decision that changed Saomy’s life. 

“It was tough to leave our home, but it’s also a chance to build a better future,” she said. 

Being a first-generation college student brings its own set of challenges, especially when navigating the complexities of scholarships and applications.

With support from organizations like Centro Hispano, Saomy has gained the guidance she needs to pursue her goals. 

“Centro Hispano has been amazing. They’ve really helped me navigate the process,” she said. 

Ultimately, Saomy dreams of connecting her two homes by starting a business that promotes trade between the U.S. and Venezuela, and create a foundation to help families.

“I want to help as many people as I can,” she said, excited for the future.

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, 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.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies

Empowering Karns High Students with Leadership Thursdays

Karns High School launched an innovative initiative called Leadership Thursdays, aimed at empowering students with essential leadership skills and preparing them for success beyond the classroom.

The program was born out of a recurring observation from teachers: students were lacking in soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and self-management.

The solution? Create opportunities for students to lead.

Leadership Thursdays provide students with dedicated time to develop these abilities and step into leadership roles.

Every Thursday, the school follows a modified schedule, with a 30-minute leadership class between the first and second blocks. These classes are customized based on student interests and pathways, ensuring each student receives focused leadership development.

For junior Mya Jones, the motivational speakers have provided the most eye-opening experiences during Leadership Thursdays.

“Some of the guest speakers have shown us how to stand up for ourselves and not be scared to stand out,” Mya said. “They’ve shown me how to break out of my comfort zone and ask for help.”

Freshmen participate in sessions focused on general leadership and student success skills, including study habits and goal-setting. As a reward for their academic progress, many freshmen recently enjoyed a Popcorn and Popsicles event to celebrate students who are on track with their classes.

Leadership Thursdays also offer specialized sessions for various student groups. The Student Government Association (SGA) is working on a flagpole renovation to honor alumni who have served in the military, while student-athletes participate in a book study on The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. DECA students focus on public speaking and competition preparation for events at local, state, and national levels.

Other groups, like Health Science students, work on leadership skills tied to their field. These students prepare for clinicals as part of their work-based learning, gaining hands-on experience in nursing and pharmacology. Culinary students practice customer service by preparing and delivering meals to staff.

For Mya, the leadership lessons extend beyond the classroom and inspired her to take action in her community. After seeing a news story about hurricane victims struggling to feed their families, Mya felt compelled to help.

“My family is about to grow to eight, so it really touched me because living in a big family, it can sometimes be a struggle to get everything you want,” Mya said. “I wanted to do something to help them.”

With the support of her teachers, Mya organized a donation drive that collected over 4,700 items including baby supplies, hygiene products, and canned food. 

“One of our recent guest speakers talked about how he went to someone he looked up to and asked for help bringing an idea to life,” she said. “I thought, ‘If he can do it, then so can I.’ I went to [Karns High Academy Coach] Ms. Brooks, and she helped me set everything up.”

Since launching the program, Karns High has already seen positive outcomes, with students like Mya stepping into leadership roles both within the school and in the community. Principal Dr. Laicee Hatfield‘s vision is for every student to graduate ready to lead, knowing who they are and how they can make an impact in the world.

“I think every school should have Leadership Thursdays because it helps students feel like they’re involved in what’s going on around them,” Mya said. 

Career Empowerment and Preparation

Knox County Schools is dedicated to Career Empowerment and Preparation. At KCS, we are committed to preparing students for graduation and life after graduation. By providing students with early and meaningful opportunities to explore colleges and careers, KCS empowers students to confidently approach their future, prepared for the three Es: employment, enrollment, or enlistment.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Great Educators

Powell High Aviation Instructor Shares Real-Life Lessons from Hurricane Relief Missions

When Powell High School Aviation Instructor and Tennessee Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer Andy Salas flew through deteriorating weather conditions to aid those affected by Hurricane Helene, it became one of the most harrowing flights of his career. 

His mission was clear: resupply and rescue in areas of East Tennessee and North Carolina that were devastated by the storm. However, the experience also provided invaluable lessons that Salas brought back to his students in the classroom.

Salas recalled being activated on a Saturday after the hurricane hit, flying a Blackhawk helicopter into mountainous regions. His tasks included delivering water, fuel, and generators to remote areas with no communication or power. 

“We were one of the first Blackhawks there,” Salas said, explaining how he coordinated with the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and local officials. But the most dangerous moments came when the mission was over, and he faced rapidly worsening weather conditions.

“I made a choice that I wish I hadn’t, flying lower instead of committing to instruments, and that’s what I demonstrated to the students,” he said. “Lessons learned, good or bad are invaluable to aviators.”

Salas didn’t just survive this experience—he turned it into a learning tool. 

Back in the classroom, he recreated the same weather conditions using flight simulators, challenging his students to make better decisions. As the weather deteriorated in the simulation, students had to use aeronautical decision-making to avoid disaster. 

“Most of them made the right choice,” Salas said. “They just pulled the nose up into the clouds and got away from the ground.”

By sharing his real-life experiences with his students, Salas emphasizes the importance of quick thinking and staying calm in high-pressure situations—skills that go beyond aviation and into everyday decision-making. 

His students not only learn how to fly; they learn how to navigate the unexpected, just as he did.

Great Educators in Every School

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