Board selects Albert Liu as new student representative for 2025-2026 term

Knox County Schools has appointed Albert Liu as the new student representative for the 2025-2026 school year, following a rigorous selection process that began in January. Liu, a rising senior from Farragut High School, was chosen from 19 applicants across nine high schools. The selection committee, which included educators and community members, evaluated candidates based on leadership, communication skills, academic achievements, and community involvement.

The committee conducted interviews with the top candidates on April 8, ultimately selecting Liu, who will officially begin his term on July 1, 2025. The board expressed excitement about Liu's appointment, highlighting the impressive qualifications of all applicants.

In addition to the student representative announcement, the board approved several key agenda items during the meeting. These included the fiscal year 2025 general purpose budget line item transfers totaling $150,714, and the school calendar for the 2027 school year. The board also approved a proposal for a clothing and resource center, as well as a memorandum of understanding with Greenheck Fan Corporation to establish a student-run engineering and manufacturing enterprise at Carter High School, with potential donations of up to $2 million.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to enhancing educational resources and opportunities for students in Knox County. The next steps will involve implementing these initiatives and welcoming Liu to the board in July, where he will begin to engage with ongoing projects and discussions.