• Back to School

     

    Back to School Information

    Updated on 7.21.22

    Knox County students return to class on Monday, Aug. 8, and our teachers, school leaders and support staff are excited to begin the academic year!

    We are committed to putting students at the center of every decision, and are focused on four key priorities:

    • Excellence in foundational skills;
    • Great educators in every school;
    • Career empowerment and preparation; and
    • Success for every student.

     

    Below you will find additional resources, including a Back To School FAQ, information about our new regional support structure, and links to The 865 Academies initiative for high school transformation.

    It is a privilege to participate in our educational mission, and we are grateful for the support of our families, employees and community partners.


    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the first day of classes for the 2022-23 school year?

    The first day of classes will be Monday, Aug. 8, 2022. This will be a half-day for students.


    What are the starting and dismissal times for my student’s school?

    See a complete list of start times and dismissal times for schools.


    When will student schedules and teacher assignments be available?

    Student schedules and teacher assignments will be available on the Aspen Family Portal on Thursday, July 28. More information about accessing the Family Portal can be found at knoxschools.org/aspeninfo.


    I’m having trouble logging in to Aspen. How can I get help?

    For assistance with Aspen login issues, call the IT Help Desk at (865) 594-1830, or fill out a ticket.


    How will school and district messages be sent this year?

    Knox County Schools is now using ParentSquare for school communication, primarily with email, text and app notifications. Invitations to join ParentSquare were sent via email and text message on July 5.

    We encourage families to activate their accounts so they can download the mobile app and update their preferences on when and how they are notified. In addition, please notify your school of any changes in your contact information. See more information about ParentSquare.


    Are there any significant changes to the school calendar?

    Knox County Schools will implement six early-release days for students in the 2022-23 school year. This proposal is aimed at improving student learning outcomes by providing regular, designated times for teachers to prepare lessons, evaluate student progress, work together and receive professional development.

    Dismissal times on the six early-release days will not be the same as on half-days. Early-release times will be at 12:30 p.m. (Grades K-5) and 1:30 p.m. (Grades 6-12) and will be held on the following days:

    • Aug. 17, 2022
    • Sept. 21, 2022
    • Nov. 16, 2022
    • Jan. 25, 2023
    • Feb. 15, 2023
    • Mar. 22, 2023

    See a complete list of dismissal times for full-days and half-days.


    Will students have access to Chromebooks this year?

    Students in Grades K-12 will be provided with Chromebooks through the district’s 1:1 initiative. Chromebook distribution will be coordinated by each school, so please look out for communications from your school principal regarding this process.


    Is financial assistance available to purchase Chromebook insurance?

    There is no insurance assistance program at this time. The cost of Chromebook insurance is $20, and families have the option of making payments as low as $5 per month to cover the cost.


    Will KCS provide meals during the 2022-23 school year?

    Since the Fall of 2020, KCS has provided breakfast and lunch meals to students at no cost, regardless of income status or school attended. This was made possible by waivers provided by the federal government.

    However, the federal government has not extended the waivers necessary to continue this program. As a result, the only students who will receive no-cost or reduced-price meals during the 2022-23 school year are those whose free and reduced-price meal application has been approved, or those who attend a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school. (See a list of CEP schools.)

    If your student does not attend a CEP school, but you would like to apply for free or reduced-price meals, you can submit an application at lunchapplication.com.


    How do I find my student’s bus stop?

    See information about bus routes.


    Where can I find meal schedules for my student’s school?

    See information about meal schedules.


    What steps should I take regarding COVID-19?

    All students and staff should follow the advice of their healthcare provider regarding COVID-19.


    Will masks be required for students and staff?

    Masks will be optional for students and staff.