Denise Blefko

Principal

2017:  It is with great excitement that I join the Powell Elementary community as a new principal.  I am quickly learning that PES is known as a caring and community-focused school that holds high academic standards.  It is my privilege to begin work with the exceptional learning teams that support the continued academic and personal growth of all of our students.

I joined Knox County Schools in 1978 upon graduating from the University of Tennessee.  I had the privilege of working at both Doyle MIddle School and Bonny Kate Elementary for nine years before working as an educator and administrator in Georgia and Virginia for 21 years.  While in Virginia, I served as a school counselor, an Elementary Dean, an Assistant Principal, as well as a summer school principal.  Returning home to Knoxville in 2015, I have served as the assistant principal at Copper Ridge Elementary until being appointed PES Principal.

I am proud to say that I graduated from the University of Tennessee Knoxville earning a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I have also earned a master’s degree in Psychological Services from Marymount University and earned a second master’s degree in School Administration and Leadership from George Mason University as well as completed a certificate program in Special Education Leadership from George Mason.

As principal I want to enrich and support student learning with teamwork and collegiality while making learning fun and meaningful for each student. I look forward to getting to know and working with our students, staff, and families.

 Go Panthers!!!

Education

·       Certificate of Special Education Leadership, George Mason University, 2013

·       Masters of Education in Educational Leadership, George Mason University, 2009

·       Master of Arts in Psychological Services, PreK-12 (School Counseling) Marymount University, 1996

·       Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Grades 1-9, Concentration in Special Education Multiple Disabilities, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, 1978

Work Experience