Knox County Public Schools (KCPS) has been awarded nearly $1 million in federal funding through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to enhance distance learning and telehealth services across the district. KCPS was one of three school districts in Kentucky selected to receive funding during a special announcement held Monday in Rockcastle County. Bell County Schools and Rockcastle County Schools were the other two districts awarded grants.
USDA Kentucky State Director Travis Burton emphasized the transformational impact of the funding.
“We want to yell about it from the top of the mountains because it is the way forward. It is creating new opportunities for students here in rural Kentucky,” Burton told news media at the event.
The grant will allow KCPS to equip every school in the district with advanced technology designed to remove barriers and expand educational access for students and families. Knox County received $998,265 of the $2.8 million grant award.
Amy Pennington, Director of Academic Programs for KCPS, said the possibilities for student learning are significant.
“All schools will be equipped with technology that will allow teachers and students to bring in guest speakers, collaborate between schools and programs, take virtual field trips, and form partnerships with universities and organizations to enhance learning through video conferencing,” Pennington said. “For example, biomedical students may be able to sit in virtually on a live surgical procedure in partnership with a university’s College of Medicine. Eighth grade students may be able to sit in virtually on a legislative session while studying the legislative branch of government. Kindergarten students may take virtual tours of farming operations or perform songs and skits for nursing homes while learning about community partners and service.”
In addition to expanding instructional opportunities, the grant will strengthen student health services districtwide. All schools will receive telemedicine and telecounseling carts, further enhancing the district’s partnership with Access Health.
“In conjunction with our partnership with Access Health, our school nurses will have specialized equipment to help diagnose and assist students and families in seeking medical care through telehealth visits,” Pennington explained. “These visits will be guided by our registered nurses who are already placed in our community schools. School counselors, social workers, and our mental health partners will also be able to connect students and families with doctors and other mental health professionals through telehealth services available at every school.”
Beyond academics and healthcare, the new technology will support broader community engagement.
“All schools will have the capability to bring in community resources, preventive care programs, drug and mental health awareness initiatives, and other partners for community education,” Pennington added.
District leaders say the investment represents more than just equipment upgrades—it reflects a long-term commitment to removing barriers for students across Knox County. By expanding both educational access and healthcare availability, KCPS continues its mission to ensure every student has the support needed to believe, achieve, and succeed.