The Knox County Board of Education held its September monthly meeting on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
During the meeting, Superintendent Jeremy Ledford updated members on the partnership with Union Commonwealth University.
“Now for the second consecutive year, Union Commonwealth University has demonstrated its commitment to the students of Knox County by providing a tuition-free pathway for eligible graduates,” said Ledford.
Union’s president, Dr. D.J. Washington, and staff visited high schools earlier this month to announce the pathway for the graduating class of 2027.
“This partnership represents much more than a scholarship—it represents an investment in the future of our students, their families, and our community.”
Ledford’s report to the Board was followed by Scott Noel, president of Summit Architects and Engineers, who provided an update on current facility projects in the district.
Noel shared that bids had been opened for the renovation and construction of the new Knox County Career and Technical Center, located at the former General Dynamics building next to ARH Hospital. The new Central Office will be located in the same building, and renovation bids were awarded in August. The project is expected to begin this fall and will include classrooms and lab space for the school’s pathways.
District Facilities and Operations
The Board approved several items related to district facilities and operations, including awarding the bid for the Career and Technical Center project. The Board also approved an emergency finding to address needed repairs to the Flat Lick Elementary School gym roof.
Governance and Leadership
The Board approved a 403(b) Plan Provider Agreement with American Fidelity. The Board also approved procedure 01.6 AP .21, Commercial Request to Inspect Public Records.
Teaching and Learning
The Board approved shortened school week/day waivers for seven students receiving special education services. Members also approved an amendment to the district’s Certified Evaluation Plan and an emergency hire for a Knox County Middle School mathematics teacher.
Other Action Items
Athletics items included a trainer agreement and an amendment to the district-wide fee schedule for referees to align with KHSAA requirements. The Board also approved the 2026-2027 real estate, personal property, aircraft and watercraft tax rates, as well as the district’s working budget for fiscal year 2027. In addition, the Board adopted a resolution authorizing the Knox County School District Finance Corporation to issue revenue bonds for the Central Office renovations.
All action items presented during the meeting were approved by the Board. A copy of the official agenda and video are on the Board’s webpage at https://knoxkyschools.com/board