Kudos to our Kids, a student recognition program, has launched in the Knox County Public Schools. It’s purpose is to seek and give praise to those students who are often behind the scenes, out of the spotlight, that are doing amazing things.
The idea originated one day at the Board office between a conversation with Frank Shelton, communications director, and Gordy Hinkle, board chairman at the time. “Pat on the back”, Hinkle said according to Shelton. “He wanted to reach out and recognize the unrecognized,” continued Shelton.
Each school will develop its own criteria and process for selecting students for a Kudos based on a framework set by the district. The award is not necessarily for academic success that is normally in the news, rather, it is for personal goals and achievements, leadership traits, positive behavior through the PBIS system, and just for going the extra mile and giving a helping hand.
“Every kid deserves a kudo,” said Shelton. “It’s beyond that pat on the back, it is a public acknowledgment tied to our mission of inspiring leaders and changing futures. These are the faces that will change our community and world.”
New kudos will be posted randomly each week online at kudos.knoxkyschools.com and shared via the district’s social media accounts and Education News paper insert in the Mountain Advocate. Copies of Education News are also available for free at Central Office and additional copies are sent to each school.
For more information about Kudos to our Kids contact the principal or member of the leadership team at your child’s school or district coordinator Frank Shelton at frank.shelton@knox.kyschools.us