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about the 865 academies

 

95
STUDENTS ENLISTED IN
MILITARY SERVICE

 

85%
OF STUDENTS COMPLETED AN EARLY POST SECONDARY OPPORTUNITY


60%
OF STUDENTS GRADUATED WITH AN INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION

The way KCS does high school

The 865 Academies transformed what high school looks like in Knox County Schools. Instead of a one-size-fits-all experience, students now have the opportunity to explore their interests, connect with local industries, and prepare for life after graduation—whether that means enrolling in college, enlisting in the military, or finding employment in a high-wage, in-demand profession.

Launched in partnership with Ford Next Generation Learning and the Knox Education Foundation, this innovative approach brings real-world learning right into the classroom. With the 865 Academies, high school becomes more meaningful, more personalized, and more connected to students' futures.

What is an academy

Think of an academy as a school within a school. Each high school offers career-themed academies where students learn in smaller communities with classmates who share similar interests.

In these academies, students:

  • Explore careers through hands-on learning

  • Connect with business and industry leaders

  • Take classes tailored to real-world jobs

  • Work with dedicated teachers and mentors

By connecting classroom knowledge to real-world skills, students are more engaged and more prepared for what's next.

Why use an academy model?

The world is changing fast—and schools must keep up. Knox County is growing, and that means more opportunities for students. But to take advantage of those opportunities, students need the right skills, experiences, and support.

The 865 Academies:

  • Prepare students for college, career, and life;

  • Build relationships between schools and local businesses;

  • Help students discover their passions early; and

  • Provide every student with real-world experiences.

The 3 Es: Enroll, Enlist, Employ

We’re focused on preparing every student for one of the 3 Es:

  • Enroll in a college or university

  • Enlist in military service

  • Employ in a high-skill, in-demand job

KCS does this through guaranteed experiences, advanced academics, and leadership opportunities.

Guaranteed Experiences

From freshman year to senior year, every student in an 865 Academy takes part in intentional, hands-on learning that connects them with the real world.

  • Guest Speakers from local industries

  • Industry Experiences with tours and hands-on activities

  • Pathway Fair to explore future academy and career options

  • Postsecondary Visits to colleges, universities, and training centers based on students’ interests

  • Job Shadowing experiences where students spend time with professionals in their chosen field

  • Capstone Projects that allow students to apply everything they’ve learned in a real-world challenge

  • Work-Based Learning: Internships, apprenticeships, and paid job experiences during high school

Advanced Academics

The 865 Academies help students earn college credit, industry certifications, and stand out on applications—all while still in high school.

Opportunities include:

  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses

  • International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge programs

  • Dual Enrollment with colleges and universities

  • Industry Certifications tied to career pathways

  • Early Postsecondary Opportunities (EPSOs)

These courses and programs challenge students academically and prepare them for success after graduation.

Leadership Opportunities

Student Ambassadors are leaders who represent their school, academy, and community. This is a chance to build communication skills, gain leadership experience, and network with professionals.

Ambassadors:

  • Welcome guests at school events

  • Lead campus tours

  • Speak at district and community events

  • Share insights with peers and partners

  • Attend leadership trainings

Real Students. Real Futures.

The 865 Academies are about more than just classes. They’re about preparing students to succeed in whatever comes next. Whether it’s stepping onto a college campus, joining a branch of the military, or starting a career with confidence, our students leave high school ready for the real world.

Because in Knox County Schools, we believe every student deserves a future that’s not only possible—but purposeful.

Want to dive deeper into each academy?
Check out your school’s available academies and see how you can get involved.