We had the pleasure this week hearing about the Knox Education Foundation (KEF) from Mike Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, and Blake Lawson, Chief Development Officer. KEF was formed in 2020 through the merger of the Great Schools Partnership Trust and Project GRAD. KEF is an independent nonprofit community based charitable organization supporting all Knox County schools.
The vision for the Knoxville Education Foundation is “Success for Every Student.” To achieve that vision, they have multiple priorities. The first is around Data, Analytics, and Innovation where they determine where to fund evidence-based strategies for educational outcomes. Second, is student and family support which include programs like Project Grad and the Student Opportunities and Family Support Fund plus a Knox Opportunity Fund. Under this priority is where the Playspace Fund was developed. This fund addresses inconsistencies in play spaces across Knox County Schools as it helps expose students to outdoor activities and physical exercise. With the establishment of this fund, Knox County Schools will have a full-time position that will manage all the play spaces across KCS to oversee maintenance and budgets for play spaces. A new requirement now is that all new schools must include a play space as part of the project. Their goal is to raise $4.5 million, and they still need about $2.3 million. Currently, Phase One is underway where $1.4 million is allocated to seven schools and eleven playgrounds.
Another key priority is Educational Initiatives and Educator Development which includes priority-based grants, professional development for educators, the One Book Read City project and improving the college going rate. One other priority highlighted is Career Development and Workforce and College Readiness where the 865 Academies concept was created. This helps create business partnerships with schools and academies to develop future workers needed in our regional economy.
Blake, who oversees development, said KEF receives funds from individuals, corporations, and foundations. They also use a team of grant writers who research and apply for grant opportunities that will further the mission of KEF.
In addition to state and local funding for schools, KEF funding assists KCS to close the opportunity gap, by supporting research-based initiatives that strengthen student engagement, create equity, reduce disparities, and provide whole child support. This organization is moving the needle improving educational outcomes for Knox County Schools as a strategic partner to supply the workforce for future generations.