Knox County Schools (KCS) is preparing for a busy start to the 2025–26 school year, as officials implement major budget cuts and introduce new policies aimed at enhancing student focus and well-being.¶
The district says a recent freeze in federal funding has forced KCS to eliminate 27.5 central office jobs, which include a mix of regional academic facilitators, student support roles, and family liaisons, to manage resources conservatively.¶
Executive director of communications Carly Harrington told the Tennessee Firefly the cuts were needed to "preserve mission‑critical services and supports for students and families.”¶
“All eliminated positions were federally funded and dependent on the receipt of funds to continue into the 2025‑26 school year,” said Harrington.¶
The breakdown of cut positions includes:¶
While the district is considering impacted staff for vacancies, Harrington says not all will be reassigned.¶
“This is a challenging but necessary step as we seek to protect the classroom, minimize the impact on students, and maintain focus on our four district priorities,” said Harrington.¶
New All-Day Cell Phone Restriction Proposed¶
Thursday night members of the Knox County Board of Education additionally voted to advance a policy limiting student cell phone use during school hours. This aligns with state law requiring districts to establish clear rules around phone usage.¶
According to the draft policy under consideration:¶
Board members are also reviewing a proposal to ensure elementary students receive at least 40 minutes of daily physical activity, per state guidance.¶
Infrastructure and Kids’ Health on the Agenda¶
The board is also set to fund an $8 million renovation of Sterchi Elementary through its Capital Improvement Plan. The focus includes new encore (arts) spaces, special education areas, and administrative offices.¶
What’s Next¶
The Knox County Board of Education is expected to revisit budget changes at its upcoming meeting. If federal funding resumes, some of the 27.5 positions could be reinstated.Additionally, the proposed cell phone restriction and recess rules will undergo further board review, with a vote anticipated in coming weeks.¶
