Knoxville, August 12, 2025
News Summary
As the new academic year begins, Knoxville schools are filled with excitement. Bonny Kate Elementary is among those seeing administrative changes and facility upgrades, including a new playground. The district has welcomed a significant number of teachers and implemented Yondr phone pouches to minimize distractions from personal devices. Knoxville Moms continues to support local families as they navigate the school year, providing resources and community connection. With enhanced learning environments, both students and parents look forward to a productive year ahead.
Knoxville kicked off the new academic year with enthusiasm as students, parents, and teachers gathered at schools across the district on Thursday, August 7, 2025. Excitement permeated the air as children returned to classrooms and families prepared for a year filled with learning and growth.
At Bonny Kate Elementary, Principal Bill Baldwin, newly appointed from Central High School, expressed readiness to dive straight into the curriculum and engage students in meaningful education. The school has undertaken several changes, including a new administration team and improvements to facilities, such as the installation of a new playground, expected to enhance student playtime and physical activity.
Teachers at Bonny Kate Elementary are also looking forward to the changes. Kindergarten teacher Natalie Ford remarked on the positive transformation taking place at the school, which looks to create a vibrant learning environment. Parents, like Olivia Cate, shared their ease in preparing their children for the school year, testifying to their longstanding affection for the school’s nurturing atmosphere.
Students are particularly eager about subjects such as math, with the anticipated new playground forecasted to add to their excitement for recess. Sherri Parrott, a retired teacher who has returned as a volunteer grandparent, commented on the significant upgrades occurring not only in the physical facilities but also in the curriculum being offered to students.
The district’s Superintendent Jon Rysewyk provided insight into the overall staff readiness, highlighting that Knox County Schools welcomes nearly 4,700 teachers this year, with fewer than 10 vacancies currently noted. This staffing level indicates strong preparation as the district gears up for full educational engagement.
This school year also introduces new regulations regarding student access to personal devices. Two schools in Knoxville have adopted Yondr phone pouches to limit student access to smartphones. This approach was suggested in light of research indicating that constant access to smartphones can detract from students’ educational engagement. Previous users of Yondr pouches, such as Emerald Academy, reported that student social interactions improved and attentiveness increased alongside this change.
The Yondr pouch program cost approximately $6,000 for Emerald Academy last year and around $18,000 for the Webb School of Knoxville, reflecting the district’s investment in enhancing the educational experience.
To aid families in navigating back-to-school preparations, Knoxville Moms has become a valuable community resource. The organization has expanded significantly, growing from 9 to 40 members and now serving over 64,000 followers on social media. Knoxville Moms provides advice and support for local families facing parenting challenges, fostering a connected community.
As the school year is underway, school supplies can be found on individual school homepages. Important dates regarding the school year have also been released. Full days for elementary school students run from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., with Lonsdale Elementary operating until 3:15 p.m. Middle schools are scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and high school hours vary depending on specific programs offered.
Parents can access information about their child’s bus stop and pick-up times through the Knox County Schools bus stop locator, ensuring a seamless start to the new academic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the school year start for Knox County Schools?
The new school year for Knox County Schools started on Thursday, August 7, 2025.
What are the school hours for elementary and middle schools?
Elementary school (K-5) hours are from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., except for Lonsdale Elementary, which operates until 3:15 p.m. Middle schools are in session from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with high school hours varying by program.
What support does Knoxville Moms provide for parents?
Knoxville Moms offers advice and connections to help local families navigate parenting challenges and foster a supportive community.
How can parents find their child’s bus stop?
Parents can use the Knox County Schools bus stop locator to find their child’s bus stop and pick-up times.
Key Features of the New School Year
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Date | August 7, 2025 |
| Teachers | Nearly 4,700 with fewer than 10 vacancies |
| New Changes | New administration, playground, and curriculum upgrades |
| School Hours (Elementary) | 7:45 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. (3:15 p.m. for Lonsdale) |
| School Hours (Middle) | 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. |
| Yondr Phone Pouches | Implemented to restrict personal device use in classrooms |
| Knoxville Moms | A community resource with over 64,000 social media followers |
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Additional Resources
- WBIR: Two Knoxville Schools Use Locked Phone Pouches
- Knox News: Knoxville Moms Facebook Group Back to School Tips
- Tennessee Lookout: Fayette Co. Schools Seeks End to Desegregation Case
- Knox News: Knox County School Lunch Menu for 2025
- Knox News: Knox County Schools Back to School Calendar
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Google Search: Knoxville schools 2025
- Google Scholar: Educational methods 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School
- Google News: Knoxville schools news
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
