In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Superintendent Jon Rysewyk sits down with Rajeev Bajaj, Executive VP of Education Solutions Group Executive at MGT and Kitamba CEO, to talk about innovation and choice in public education.

Together, they explore how school systems can reimagine learning—expanding opportunities for students while maintaining the strong foundation of traditional schools. Their conversation highlights Knox County Schools’ Innovative Schools Initiative, a key part of the district’s 2030 Strategic Plan, aimed at giving families more options and students more ways to succeed.

From national trends to local action, this episode offers a candid, forward-looking discussion about how public schools can embrace innovation responsibly and make every zip code a place of possibility.

0:00 Welcome + Why This Innovation Conversation Matters right now
0:50 Meet Rajiv Bajaj + His Work in Innovative School Design
2:20 Rajiv’s Journey: From Microsoft to the Classroom to System-Level Change
8:55 “School Hasn’t Changed Much”—Why the Carnegie Unit Still Shapes Learning
11:45 The Opportunity: Start With the Learner, Then Build the System Around Them
13:40 “Two Things Can Be True”: What Traditional School Gets Right (and what needs to evolve)
18:05 What Innovation Looks Like in Knox County: Pathways, Choice, and Serving every student
20:20 Defining Innovation: A Learner-Centered Approach (not a buzzword)
27:05 Mastery vs. Seat Time: Why the Shift Matters—and how tech/AI may make it possible
35:35 Choice Without Politics: Personalization, Engagement, and Better Pathways
41:05 Innovation as R&D: Pilots, learning fast, and building coherence (not chasing trends)
46:10 The Parent View: What success looks like when schools get this right
48:20 Closing Thanks + Subscribe/Review + Production Credits

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He began his career as a science teacher and has served in a range of leadership roles focused on academic improvement and innovation. As superintendent, he is guiding the district’s work to prepare every student for life after graduation through strong core instruction, meaningful pathways, and a long-term strategic vision.

Rajiv Bajaj is a national leader in innovative school design and serves as Executive Vice President of Education Solutions at MGT, supporting state and district leaders with strategy and implementation across education, technology, and finance. He began his career as an elementary school teacher in Harlem, later served in senior roles at the New York City Department of Education (including accountability leadership), and has worked across education, curriculum, and technology—including roles at Microsoft—bringing a systems-level focus to designing student-centered learning at scale.

• Innovation isn’t a buzzword—it’s continuous improvement grounded in what students need.

• Seat time is convenient for adults; mastery-based learning is often better for students.

• Foundational skills (literacy and math) aren’t going away—they matter even more in an AI world.

• Personalization and “choice” can be non-political: it’s about pathways, engagement, and fit.

• The best systems act like learning organizations: pilot, evaluate, keep what works, stop what doesn’t—always centered on students.

Links & Resources:

⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk is joined by David Mansouri, President and CEO of SCORE, for a deep conversation about goal setting, accountability, and preparing students for life after graduation.

Together, they explore why clear, measurable goals matter in education, how Tennessee’s TN 2030 initiative is reshaping statewide expectations, and what it really means to move progress forward—one student at a time. David shares his journey into education policy, SCORE’s role as a nonpartisan research and advocacy organization, and how data-driven goal setting can translate into real outcomes for students.

The conversation also connects statewide goals to Knox County Schools’ 2030 Strategic Plan, highlighting how long-term vision paired with nimble, annual action plans allows districts to adapt, respond to research, and accelerate student success. From early literacy and middle school math to postsecondary readiness and workforce alignment, this episode offers a clear look at how intentional planning—when done well—can change trajectories for students and communities alike.

Whether you’re an educator, parent, policymaker, or community leader, this episode provides a practical and hopeful framework for understanding how education systems can stay focused, flexible, and centered on student success.

2:00 Why Goal Setting Matters in Education
6:00 David Mansouri’s Path into Education Policy
9:00 What SCORE Is and Why It Was Created
13:00 Introducing TN 2030: Tennessee’s Education Goals
15:00 Why 3rd Grade Literacy and 7th Grade Math Matter
18:00 “One More Student” — A Practical Model for Growth
24:00 What the TN 2030 Goals Mean for Knox County
31:00 Connecting Statewide Goals to KCS’s 2030 Strategic Plan
38:00 Evidence-Based Instruction and Closing Learning Gaps
45:00 Community Engagement, Accountability, and Transparency
51:00 Final Takeaways: Vision, Nimbleness, and Student Success

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

David Mansouri is President and CEO of SCORE, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes across Tennessee. He previously worked in public policy and political leadership and has spent over a decade helping shape education reform through research, collaboration, and advocacy.

Key Takeaways

• Clear goals create alignment, motivation, and accountability

• Small, consistent gains can lead to transformational outcomes

• Long-term vision must be paired with flexible, annual action

• Education systems work best when communities are actively engaged

  
  

  Links & Resources:

  • Questions or show ideas? Email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠. 

  • Learn more about Knox County Schools at ⁠⁠KnoxSchools.org⁠⁠.

  • Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

  • ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

  • ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

  • ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

  • ⁠⁠X⁠⁠

  • ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Dr. Vasileios Maroulas, Director of the AI Tennessee Initiative at University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Their conversation explores how artificial intelligence is transforming K–12 education — from streamlining operations and personalizing instruction to expanding opportunities and connecting students to future career pathways.

They also discuss Tennessee’s vision to become a national leader in AI, how cross-sector partnerships drive innovation, and how educators, students, and communities can embrace AI safely and responsibly.

Whether you’re an educator, parent, or student, this episode offers a clear and practical look at how AI is shaping the future of learning and preparing students for success in an increasingly digital world.

• 2:00 Dr. Maroulas’ Journey (Greece → UNC → Minnesota → UTK)
• 7:00 Why AI Matters for Tennesseans
• 8:00 Defining AI & Its Historical Roots
• 12:00 AI Tennessee’s Five Pillars
• 14:00 Real-World AI Applications (Ag, Healthcare, Education)
• 18:00 Workforce Transformation & the 90/9/1 Rule
• 25:00 Preparing Students for an AI World
• 35:00 Knox County Schools & Closing Reflections




Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Dr. Vasileios Maroulas is a Professor, Associate Vice Chancellor, and Director of AI Tennessee Initiative (link)

Dr. Maroulas is a Professor of Mathematics with joint appointments at the Business Analytics and Statistics at the Haslam College of Business, and the Data Science and Engineering at Bredesen Center. He is a Senior Research Fellow at the US Army Research Lab and earned Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Key Takeaways:

• AI is a tool, not a replacement for humans

• Education must shift from “one-size-fits-all” to personalized learning

  
  

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email ⁠[email protected]⁠. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at ⁠KnoxSchools.org⁠.

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• ⁠Facebook⁠

• ⁠Instagram⁠

• ⁠LinkedIn⁠

• ⁠X⁠

• ⁠YouTube⁠

• 
  

  
  

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk talks with Betsy Wills, co-founder of YouScience—a career and education assessment that helps students and adults discover their natural talents, interests, and potential career matches. Their conversation explores the power of aptitude testing and how understanding students’ strengths can guide education choices, career exploration, and long-term success.

• 00:00 Introduction to Aptitude Testing
• 04:55 The History and Evolution of Aptitude Assessments
• 10:06 Understanding Aptitudes vs. Interests
• 15:00 The Importance of Early Exposure to Career Paths
• 19:57 The Role of Aptitude Testing in Education
• 24:58 Personal Experiences with Aptitude Testing
• 30:09 The Broader Implications of Aptitude Awareness
• 30:09 Implementing Youth Science in Education
• 32:05 Transforming High School Experiences
• 34:52 Connecting Aptitude with Career Choices
• 37:40 The Importance of Early Aptitude Assessment
• 39:12 Bringing Passion to Work
• 41:10 The Role of Hobbies in Life Satisfaction
• 43:16 Identifying and Cultivating Aptitudes
• 46:35 Key Takeaways and Future Directions

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Betsy Wills, co-founder of YouScience brings more than 20 years of experience in development and marketing across financial services, universities, health care, and education technology. She’s a graduate of Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor’s in English and Fine Arts, and she earned a Master’s in Education from Peabody College, focusing on Human Resources Development.

Betsy is also a regular guest lecturer at Vanderbilt and NYU’s Stern School of Business, and she’s been a featured speaker at TEDx Women. She co-wrote the book Your Hidden Genius, which helps readers uncover their natural talents, interests, and personality traits to find career success and personal fulfillment. 

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of aptitudes

• How aptitudes can shape your career path

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [email protected]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org.

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Chief of School Safety Carlo Granillo to talk about what it takes to keep students and staff safe every day. Chief Granillo shares how the district prepares for emergencies, trains staff, and works with law enforcement partners to ensure schools are secure and welcoming places to learn. They also discuss what “an abundance of caution” looks like in practice and why safety is a shared responsibility across the community.

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Chief Carlo Granillo brings more than 30 years of law enforcement experience to his role as Knox County Schools Chief of School Safety, a position he began in March 2025. Before joining the district, he served as Chief of Police for the Fontana School Police Department in California, a district about half the size of Knox County Schools. He also spent over 20 years with the Fontana Police Department, where he served as a police officer, K9 officer, detective, and sergeant overseeing units in bike patrol, narcotics, canine, internal affairs, and hostage negotiation, before advancing to lieutenant. Earlier in his career, he worked for the City of Colton Police Department for eight years. Chief Granillo earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University.

Key Takeaways:

• The foundation of school security at KCS includes:

• Having a highly-trained, armed officer in every school; 

• Individualizing safety plans to meet the unique needs of each environment; and

• A commitment to take every threat seriously and encourage every member of our community to say something if they see something.

• Safety is not just about security measures—it’s about creating a welcoming, supportive environment where students can thrive.

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [email protected]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org.

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with public school parent and podcast co-host Prentice Elliott to wrap up Season 1 with a reflection on the journey so far and to answer a few listener-submitted questions. They’ll look back on the season’s highlights, share what they’ve learned, and provide insights into what’s in store for Season 2.

Whether you’re a long-time listener or just tuning in, this episode is packed with reflections, answers, and a sneak peek at what’s ahead.

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Prentice Elliott joined the Knox County Schools communications team in 2015. Before joining the school district, he spent 13 years in local news, primarily covering sports in Augusta, Georgia, and Knoxville, Tennessee. He has a Bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from the University of South Carolina.

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [email protected]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org.

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

Choosing to serve is a big decision—and with the right guidance, it can open doors to education, purpose, and a host of long-term opportunities. 

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with General Arnie Bunch, a Four-Star General and current Hamblen County Director of Schools, to talk about what it really means to enlist. With 38 years in the U.S. Air Force, General Bunch shares firsthand insight into military careers, the values that shape service members, and the many ways students can prepare for a future in uniform.

They’ll discuss how schools can support students interested in military pathways—from early exposure to career-connected learning to building the character, confidence, and skills required for service

If you're a student considering enlistment—or a family member or educator wanting to support that path—this episode is full of insight, clarity, and encouragement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Military Enlistment Discussion

10:30 Understanding Enlistment and Its Misconceptions

20:14 The Benefits of Military Service for Young Adults

23:38 Exploring Military Service as an Educational Pathway

24:07 Core Values and Their Relevance in Education

25:05 Benefits of Military Service for Students

26:15 Character Development Through Military Experience

27:40 The Impact of Military Exposure on Youth

29:06 JROTC: A Gateway to Opportunities

30:25 Transformative Experiences in JROTC

32:01 Leadership Skills from JROTC

33:26 Attracting Veterans to Education

35:19 Shifting Perspectives on Post-Graduation Success

36:03 Understanding Military Options for Students

39:26 Navigating the Military Enlistment Process

43:51 Celebrating Service: Honoring Student Achievements

44:34 Advice for Students Considering Military Service

Takeaways

The military can be a viable option for all students.

Enlistment provides educational benefits and career opportunities.

Many misconceptions exist about military service.

Education is crucial for success in any career path.

Exposure to military options broadens students' perspectives.

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Gen. Arnold W. “Arnie” Bunch, Jr. ,brings a wealth of leadership experience to his role as Superintendent of Hamblen County Schools, a position he has held since 2022. A native of Hamblen County, Gen. Bunch previously served a distinguished 38-year career in the United States Air Force, retiring as a four-star general. In his final military assignment, he commanded the Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, overseeing nearly 89,000 personnel and managing a $60 billion annual budget. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy with a degree in civil engineering; completed Squadron Officer School at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama; earned a Master’s in mechanical engineering from California State University–Fresno; attended Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; and holds a Master of Science in national security strategy from the National War College in Washington, D.C.

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [email protected]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org.

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Dr. Jon Rysewyk, Superintendent of Knox County Schools, teams up with Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs to tackle one of the hottest topics in the region—growth. They’ll explore the plans shaping the county’s future and dive into the challenges of managing rapid projected growth, including how it impacts everything from funding and facilities to staffing and student schedules. Tune in for a candid conversation on how Knox County is preparing for a thriving tomorrow—and why education is at the heart of it all.

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Glenn Jacobs, elected Mayor of Knox County in 2018 and re-elected to a second term in 2022, brings a unique blend of leadership and experience to his role. Born in Spain and raised near St. Louis, Missouri, Jacobs holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Northeast Missouri State University. Before entering public service, Jacobs had a highly successful 20-year career as WWE Superstar "Kane." He was also a small business owner. By focusing on jobs, education, and recreation, Mayor Jacobs has worked diligently to tell the rest of the world what he already knows: that Knox County is the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Follow Glenn Jacobs on X @GlennJacobsTN.
Key Takeaways:

• Preparing students for jobs that don’t exist yet requires forward-thinking education, strategic business partnerships, and career exposure.

• A healthy economy is essential for bringing graduates back home to live and work.

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [email protected]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

• Learn more about the Knox County at KnoxCounty.org

• Follow the Knox County Government on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

• Learn more about AdvanceKnox

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Krissy DeAlejandro, President and CEO of tnAchieves, to talk about what it really takes to get students to and through college. They’ll break down how tnAchieves removes barriers to postsecondary education and how Knox County Schools is shifting the focus from just earning a diploma to preparing students for real success after graduation. From advanced academics to the 865 Academies, college fairs, and campus visits, they’ll explore the key experiences that help students turn their college goals into reality.

• 04:00 - How Krissy DeAlejandro became the first in her family to go to college

• 06:45 - What does tnAchieves do?

• 10:20 - What is postsecondary enrollment? 

• 14:07 - The importance of mentors in tn Achieves

• 18:45 - What is the FAFSA? 

• 22:57 - How to apply for postsecdonary enrollment

• 26:29 - What is Knox Access?

• 31:53 - How does KCS prepare students for success in life after high school? 

• 41:44 - The role of 865 Academies and guaranteed experiences 

• 48:36 - How the postsecondary path has changed recently

• 55:24 - Advice for parents and students

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Krissy DeAlejandro is the President and CEO of tnAchieves, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to helping Tennessee high school students transition to higher education. Originally launched as knoxAchieves in 2008, Krissy played a pivotal role in shaping the program, which began as an idea sketched on a whiteboard during her time as Deputy Chief of Staff for Knox County Mayor Mike Ragsdale. A first-generation college graduate, Krissy holds a bachelor’s degree from The University of the South (Sewanee) and a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She has also taught as an adjunct professor at both UTK and Pellissippi State Community College. In addition to leading tnAchieves, Krissy serves on the boards of Junior Achievement of East Tennessee and the Boy Scouts – Great Smoky Mountain Council, on the advisory councils of SCORE and College Promise, and is the executive director of The Boyd Foundation.

Key Takeaways:

• The path to success after high school graduation has fundamentally changed in recent years

• Postsecondary education can be affordable and available for everyone

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [email protected]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org.

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

• Learn more about tnAchieves at tnachieves.org.

• Follow the Knox County Government on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

• Learn more about Federal Student Aid here and find the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) here.

• Learn more about UT Promise here.

Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give our kids–it is a foundational skill that can shape their future success.

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Dr. Sharon Roberts, senior advisor for SCORE (State Collaborative on Reforming Education), to dive into the importance of early literacy. They’ll discuss why third grade is such a pivotal moment in a child’s academic journey, how reading instruction has evolved, and the innovative ways Knox County Schools is supporting young readers. Plus, they’ll share simple, effective tips for parents to help their children develop strong reading skills from birth through elementary school.

• 01:47 - KCS kindergarten reading lesson

• 02:39 - How Sharon Roberts began her journey into education

• 10:05 - The difference between reading and literacy

• 11:49 - What are sight words and phonics?

• 16:37 - The recent change in reading instruction

• 19:40 - The importance of 3rd grade reading proficiency

• 23:04 - How has KCS improved english-language arts scores?

• 31:57 - The impact of legislation on 3rd grade reading

• 37:26 - How parents can support their child’s literacy

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Dr. Sharon Roberts, a Knoxville native, brings over four decades of experience in education and leadership. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Dr. Roberts earned a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, a Master’s in Educational Administration and Supervision, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. Throughout her 21 years with Knox County Schools, she served as a SPED and 6th grade teacher, instructional coach, principal, and assistant superintendent, before becoming the Superintendent of Lebanon Special School District. Dr. Roberts spent 12 years as the Chief K-12 Impact Officer at SCORE (State Collaborative on Reforming Education) and now serves as a Senior Advisor. She is also the President of Leadership Innovations, Inc., where she provides leadership coaching and organizational consulting.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of literacy

• The evolving approach to literacy in the classroom

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [email protected]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org.

  Knox County Schools strategies for foundational literacy

• Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube

• Learn more about State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) at tnscore.org

• SCORE casts a vision for student success in 2025 State of Education in Tennessee

• Follow SCORE on all platforms:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• X

• YouTube