Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more at knoxschools.org/academies.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Community Partners

Johnson University and The 865 Academies Forge Pathways to Success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kaleigh Walker Student Success, Student Supports

Bridging the Gap: Virtual School Students Now Have a Shot at Sports

Students choose to attend the Knox County Virtual School for all sorts of reasons: a flexible school schedule, medical reasons or special needs accommodations, or a different learning environment.

The Virtual School gave students a space to learn from home while still offering extracurriculars, clubs, and in-person events for students to build a community and socialize with others. However, up until November 2023, Virtual School scholars were unable to participate in school-based athletics.

In a move to increase the inclusivity and opportunities for all students, Virtual School Principal Jennifer Garrett and KCS Athletics Specialist Bryan Brown spearheaded work allowing students to participate in sports at their base schools. 

This initiative, born out of a dedication to equity and recognizing the diverse needs of students, marks a significant step forward in breaking down barriers that previously hindered Virtual School students from engaging in extracurricular activities.

Garrett, speaking passionately about the decision, emphasized the fundamental principle of equal opportunity. 

“We had a lot of students that wanted to come to us but still wanted to play sports, and that was kind of an inhibitor for them,” she said. “Students want to be able to do everything and be included in everything, so I’m sure that they are just absolutely thrilled.”

The sentiment echoes the belief that regardless of where a student attends school, they should have access to the same opportunities for personal growth and socialization.

One poignant example illustrates the profound impact of this initiative. Garrett shared the story of a student who chose Virtual School to care for a grandparent but harbored a desire to play football. Through this work, he now has the opportunity to pursue his passion while fulfilling responsibilities at home—a testament to the transformative power of sports in the lives of young individuals.

Brown elaborated on the journey to make this all possible, and highlighted the hurdles that Virtual School students still have to navigate to join the sports programs at their base schools. 

“We applied for the Virtual School to become members of TSSAA. Once they were a member, we had two choices. They could have their own sports teams at Virtual School or get to have them play at their base schools,” he said. “So we decided to go the route of them playing at their base schools, and now these student-athletes have the opportunity to try out.”

TSSAA transfer rules still apply for any student wishing to try out for a sport at their base school, as a move to the Virtual School is considered a transfer, and the KCS Athletic department is ready to help families navigate eligibility rules.  

Looking ahead, the impact of this initiative extends beyond the realm of sports. It fosters a sense of belonging and community for these students, bridging the gap between virtual and traditional schooling experiences. 

As Garrett noted, the increased social events and engagement initiatives have led to a resurgence in interest in virtual schooling, further solidifying its place as a viable educational option for students with diverse needs and circumstances.

Kaleigh Walker Student Supports

Educational Triumphs at Home: Transforming Learning & Embracing Challenges with KCS Homebound

Orin Heatherly is part of the Knox County Schools family, but his day may look a little different compared to his peers. 

As a Homebound student, Heatherly receives instruction from his dedicated teacher, Donna Klarich, at home.

“Working with Orin has been a deeply rewarding journey that goes beyond traditional education,” Klarich said. “It’s about embracing unique challenges and joys, fostering academic growth, and celebrating personal achievements–fulfilling my role as a dedicated educator and member of their family.”

The KCS Homebound team supports students who, due to medical or other reasons, cannot attend their base school. They stand out as a beacon of consistency for these students and their families.

Support is provided virtually or in person at home or even in the hospital, and the time spent with the Homebound teacher is sometimes the only normal part of their week. 

“Homebound has helped him in so many ways,” said Heatherly’s mom, Amy. “He is more aware of how to perform daily activities, and it has helped me to learn how to teach him effectively since I can participate in his education.”

And then there’s Celeste Cristelous, a Homebound teacher with almost 20 years of experience, specializing in working with students diagnosed with cancer. 

“We step into the lives of our students during some of their roughest times, making their days brighter and meeting their greatest needs, whether educational or emotional,” she shares.

While students are going through different stages of their treatment, their educators also adjust their style of teaching. Cristelous said that “what works after surgery does not work during chemotherapy, and what works during chemotherapy does not work during radiation.”

But what does Homebound instruction look like in practice?

Think individualized learning plans tailored to each student’s health condition, learning style, and academic requirements. Imagine flexibility in scheduling that accommodates varied rest periods or medical treatments. Envision qualified and licensed instructors dedicated to adapting to diverse learning needs and environments.

Communication is key, with Homebound teachers providing regular updates and maintaining open channels to ensure everyone involved is on the same page, and integration with the school curriculum is a priority. When the time comes, the students can experience a seamless return to school.

It’s not just about the academics; Homebound teachers recognize the social and emotional challenges students may face and offer the necessary support. Collaboration with healthcare professionals and student support services is essential for success, and building community understanding contributes to a positive, inclusive learning environment.

KCS Homebound allows education to transcend the ordinary, and every student’s journey can be a story of triumph.

To learn more about Homebound and how we can serve you and your family, please contact any members of the team.

Daphne Odom (daphne.odom@knoxschools.org)

Mendy Williams (mendy.williams@knoxschools.org)

Megan Greene (megan.greene@knoxschools.org)

Kaleigh Walker Career Empowerment, Great Educators, Student Success

Empowering Creativity: Farragut Middle’s Innovative Print Shop

At Farragut Middle School, there’s a new, cutting-edge Print Shop program that’s changing the way students engage with their education.

Thanks to the vision of FMS administration and Brian Fogarty, a former math and science teacher turned creative leader, the school is embracing the challenge of bringing real-world experiences to these 6th- through 8th-graders. 

“They’re designing, producing, marketing, and budgeting,” Fogarty said. “The students are doing everything themselves in the shop.”

The program is hands-on from day one. Students dive into every aspect of the process, from brainstorming designs to operating equipment like silkscreen presses and heat presses. 

Fogarty is passionate about giving students real-world experiences, saying, “It’s all about giving them an opportunity. They’re going to mess up, but that’s part of learning.”

Students in 6th grade begin with a career awareness course where they are introduced to different areas in the industry, and they start career exploration in 7th grade before choosing their “department” for 8th grade. 

“For a lot of them, this class has really helped to give them an outlet to show their creativity and be successful,” Fogarty reflects. “They’re shining stars here.”

The Print Shop isn’t just about making posters and T-shirts; it’s about teaching valuable skills like communication, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship. Students learn to work with customers, manage finances, and market their products. Fogarty envisions a future where students take these skills and run with them, whether starting their own Etsy stores or pursuing careers in design.

As the program continues to evolve, Fogarty is excited about the possibilities. From expanding partnerships with high schools to exploring new technologies like 3D printing, the Print Shop is just getting started. 

“We’re giving them a little taste of everything,” Fogarty says with a smile. “Who knows where they’ll take it?”

In a world where creativity and innovation are more valuable than ever, Farragut Middle School’s Print Shop is leading the way. Thanks to dedicated educators like Brian Fogarty, the next generation of designers, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers is already hard at work, shaping the future, one print at a time.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Great Educators

Flying to Success: Powell’s Aviation Odyssey

Students at Powell High School are not just reaching for the skies; they’re soaring through the clouds thanks to the school’s cutting-edge Aviation pathway.

Operating within the Academy of Commerce and Transportation, this unique program is a standout as the only high school aviation course of study in Knox County and a rare gem statewide, offering students a hands-on journey into the world of aerospace education.

At the helm of this ambitious venture is Tennessee Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer Andy Salas, whose expertise in tactical military rotary flight brings a dynamic perspective to the classroom. 

When he’s not leading the charge in education, you can find him maneuvering Blackhawk helicopters, serving as both pilot and instructor.

“After school, I’ll go straight to the airfield, fly at night, and hopefully get home by midnight,” Salas said. “I do that at least once a week, and sometimes up to three times a week, for my proficiency.”

Just days into his new role at Powell, Salas orchestrated a thrilling event: a Medevac Blackhawk helicopter swooped in, touching down on school grounds. Students explored the aircraft and gained insights from the flight crew. This kind of experiential learning sets the stage for what’s to come in the program.

But it’s not just about the thrill of helicopters and the roar of engines. The Aviation pathway begins with a solid foundation in Introduction to Aerospace, where students delve into aviation history, aircraft structures, and principles of aerodynamics. From there, they ascend through Aerospace I and II before reaching Unmanned Aerial Systems, a course designed to take them to the world of drone piloting, culminating in an FAA Remote Pilot Certification.

For students like Lucas Keefe, the journey is more than academic–it’s a personal legacy. 

“My great-grandfather was an aviator and my grandfather was an aircraft mechanic, so I’m naturally interested in planes,” Keefe said. “One of my goals is to fly them one day, and these classes will help me carry on the tradition.”

Before students select a pathway in the 865 Academies, they undergo the YouScience aptitude test, which guides them toward careers aligned with their passions. Students in the class soared above the rest in the aviation section.

As Salas continues to lead the course, he looks toward an exciting future.

“Seeing the end product of these kids graduating from this program in a few years is going to be the most thrilling part for me,” he said.

The sky’s the limit for the students of Powell High School.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

Building Leadership and Discipline: The Debut of Gibbs Middle School’s JROTC Program

Each day begins with the Cadet’s Creed: a sworn oath promising honor, patriotism, and courage. 

Normally a recitation that can be heard from Gibbs High School, it’s now being echoed across the street at Gibbs Middle School, where the district’s first and only middle school Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program can be found.

Spearheaded by a dedicated staff and met with enthusiasm by students, this initiative aims not only to instill discipline and leadership skills but also to lay the groundwork for a seamless transition into high school.

Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Lundy began the half-mile trek to GMS in the fall to teach the class about decision-making, self-discipline, and team building skills to positively impact students’ academic and personal development.

“It’s going to help some kids in class, especially those who are preparing to transition to high school,” Lundy said. “Everybody’s just nervous going into high school, but being in JROTC helps with that move and to motivate young people to be better citizens.”

“I’m so proud that we are able to provide this additional opportunity to our students,” Reed said. “They’re earning a high school credit in eighth grade, which is an incredible leg-up. When they go across the street, they will join the high school program and they just build from there in a nice, seamless transition.”

Assistant Principal Scott Reed underscores the program’s significance in offering additional opportunities for student advancement. 

Moreover, participation in JROTC cultivates a sense of responsibility and pride in students. Cadet Braxton Graves shared his experience of carrying the flag during basketball games, highlighting the newfound opportunities for involvement and leadership. 

“Being able to carry the flag is a huge responsibility. I was a little nervous at first, but I’ve gained so much confidence through this and I’m more comfortable handling the flag,” Graves said. “It’s a really cool, unique experience that not a lot of people get to do.”

The debut of Gibbs Middle School’s JROTC program signifies a significant milestone in the school and district’s commitment to providing career exploration experiences at an early age. 

By instilling discipline, fostering leadership, and offering early academic credits, the program sets students on a path toward academic excellence and personal growth. As the program continues to flourish, it promises to shape the next generation of leaders and achievers in our community.

Reed adds, “This is opening doors for our students and exposing them early to opportunities they might not have known about before.”

Kaleigh Walker Career Empowerment, Student Success, Student Supports

Celebrating Our School Security Officers: Guardians of Safety and Community

Today, as we observe School Security Officer Appreciation Day, we pay homage to the brave men and women who stand as the first line of defense in our schools.

Among them are four remarkable individuals from different corners of our district, each with their own unique journey, challenges, and heartfelt dedication to the safety and well-being of our students.

Officer Jay Gibson, Amherst Elementary School

After working in security for years, Jay Gibson made the switch to school security to be on the same schedule as his son when he began school.

A 13-year career allowed him to experience settings from Ridgedale School to Hardin Valley Middle – where his now-senior son attended at the time – to his current posting at Amherst Elementary. 

“At Ridgedale, most of the kids’ paths were kind of chosen for them through their environments outside of school,” Gibson said. “I knew that if I could influence one percent of those kids, it would make all the difference.”

He remembers a special moment when he was directing traffic at HVMS during after-school pick-up when he heard a voice call, “Officer Jay! Officer Jay!” A student from Ridgedale recognized him and was excited to share his success in class and extracurriculars. 

“He’d gotten farther than I thought he would, and even though his progress wasn’t directly because of me, it was a sense of team accomplishment, and he wanted to tell me about it,” he said.

Gibson hopes more people show interest in the field and see the positive impact school security officers have on their community.

Officer Kimberly Mays, Gresham Middle School

Similarly to Officer Gibson, Kimberly Mays pursued other passions before joining the KCS School Security Division 10 years ago. 

After experiencing a high school and elementary school setting, Mays knew she found the place where she could do the most good for her community at Gresham Middle School. 

Mays speaks passionately about the unique qualities and unending kindness of the students at Gresham, and Principal Melissa Glover described her as whole-heartedly unselfish and loving to all people in the building.

“She is so involved, and the kids love her,” Glover said. “When kids are upset, she is the go-to person for a lot of them. I’ve never seen someone who is so involved in their school.”

Her dedication to the safety and well-being of students earned her an Officer of the Year recognition, and she even earned the Life Saver Award when she sprung into action to offer life-saving aid to a staff member last year.

She notes there are stressful moments that come with the job.

Mays said that in the last few years, more of her attention has been devoted to hostile parents.

“It is important for people to know how the escalation of parents has changed the scope of our jobs,” she said. “I want that to be the smallest part of my job and for the majority to be championing kids and promoting positivity and encouragement.”

But, she says every day is a fresh start, and remains positive and focused on her goal of creating great experiences for all students.

Officer Lee “Izzy” McDermott, West View Elementary School

At 18 years old, Lee “Izzy” McDermott knew he wanted to work in law enforcement. After security jobs at a few different companies, a friend recommended checking out an SSO position. 

Now in his second year with Knox County Schools, he’s serving in the school he once attended as a young boy.

“I know a lot of the parents here because I attended school with them,” McDermott said. “The principal, Amy Brace, was my gym teacher when I was at Sarah Moore Greene, and there are a few teachers that were here when I was in school.”

He says returning to his childhood school gives his job a bigger meaning.

“It’s a very surreal feeling,” he said. “I’ve lived in this community my whole life, and this fills me with a deeper sense of purpose serving in this school.”

His experience building relationships with the students at West View has been a highlight of his career. He plays basketball with them during recess and sets the example for good sportsmanship. He encourages them throughout the day and celebrates their successes with them. 

McDermott said when his students win in the classroom, “it’s almost like a proud dad moment.”

Officer Lisa Smith, Karns Elementary School

Lisa Smith, like so many others, came to this position from years of working in security. Now in her eighth year at Karns Elementary, she said no two days are ever the same.

“You never know what to expect when you come in each morning,” she said. “I could have a slow day or be busy for eight hours. It’s an awesome experience as a school security officer, and it’s a big responsibility.”

Principal Jamey Romig knows Smith handles all situations at Karns with the utmost care and devotion.

“On the rare occasion that something does happen at school or in the community, she takes charge of our security,” Romig said. “When a tough decision needs to be made, I trust her 100% to take care of our school.”

Smith said being in uniform and gaining the trust of students has impacted a number of individuals.

“I’ve had families say to me, ‘My child was afraid of officers before she came here, and she’s not afraid anymore.’” She continued, “It makes you feel good because you’ve positively influenced a child’s perception of people like you who care for their safety.”

As we reflect on the dedication and sacrifice of our school security officers, let us take a moment to express our gratitude for their unwavering commitment to keeping our schools safe and nurturing environments for learning and growth. Their selfless service is a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and community spirit.

KCS Hall Pass Student Supports

Compassionately Navigating Specialized Transport: The Role of KCS Special Education Transportation

Suzanne Clapp’s daughter, a middle school student, commutes to school just like her peers. For seven years, the Special Education Transportation Team has made sure that her unique needs don’t keep her from riding the same buses as 20,000 other students across the district. 

Clapp’s daughter is just one of the 2,000 special needs students benefiting from the work and expertise of the SPED Transportation Team. 

The Team — which includes licensed physical and occupational therapists, a Special Education Supervisor, and a Transportation Router — collaborates with nursing, speech, and behavioral specialists to facilitate the safest, most appropriate transport of special needs students to and from school every day. 

Though Clapp recognizes the Team’s obvious expertise, she values the Team’s acknowledgment of the unique challenges families face in understanding and meeting their child’s specific needs.

“As parents, we are deeply immersed in our child’s needs,” said Clapp. “Maybe they struggle–to varying degrees–with mobility, behavior, or communication. Some are non-verbal and most probably don’t understand bus safety rules. While we want our children to have the same school experience as their peers, there can be a lot of stress involved in that.”

That’s why the SPED Transportation Team encourages family involvement in the process of evaluating and arranging these services and prioritizes understanding each child’s individual safety needs.

“Wheelchairs are as unique as the children who use them and each one must be secured in a specific way to be safely transported,” Clapp explains. “Researching all those specific requirements and protocols is time consuming and, honestly, tedious, but the Transportation Team ensures every child is fitted correctly in the right chair and that every chair is secured properly.”

The team also provides Child Passenger Safety training to school-based staff throughout the district for those who either ride the bus with students or participate in the transportation process. Additionally, they complete trainings for approximately 160 special education bus drivers, 40 shuttle drivers, and contractors. 

The group also completes specific training modules. Several members hold Child Passenger Safety Certifications with Safe Travel for all Children endorsements. The endorsement is specific to the Child Passenger Safety Certification.

These hands-on training sessions include the proper use of individual safety devices, loading and unloading, the securement of wheelchairs, behavior strategies, and evacuation techniques.

Emphasizing the district’s commitment to providing every student with a quality, free, and appropriate education, KCS Director of Transportation Ryan Dillingham commends the Special Education Transportation Team for their efforts, saying: “The SPED Transportation Team works incredibly hard to make sure the complexity of a student’s needs doesn’t impact their ability to get to school in the same way as their traditionally educated peers.”

For more information on Special Education Transportation, please contact Ryan Dillingham (ryan.dillingham@knoxschools.org) or Lauren Mays (lauren.mays@knoxschools.org).