KCS employee demands investigation into funding cuts and reassignments at school board meeting

Knox County Schools (KCS) is facing significant upheaval following recent staffing cuts that have left educators and parents concerned about the future of educational support in the district. During the KCS Board of Education meeting on July 10, 2025, a former secondary English Language Arts (ELA) facilitator voiced strong objections to the abrupt reassignment of staff, highlighting the lack of communication and perceived inequities in the process.

The educator, who had served in their role for six years, reported that many colleagues were reassigned without prior notice, following a freeze on Title II funding. They urged the board to investigate the legality of changing funding sources for positions without informing employees and to address the inequitable treatment of staff during these cuts. The speaker emphasized that while some facilitators retained their positions, others, including the entire secondary ELA department, were cut, raising concerns about the impact on students, particularly those in gifted and talented programs.

Parents also expressed their frustrations during the public forum, particularly regarding the leadership and communication from KCS administration. One parent, representing the West High School community, questioned the board's transparency and responsiveness to the emotional needs of students following a recent incident involving a coach. They called for reinstatement of the coach, emphasizing the strong community support for him and the negative impact of his absence on students.

Another parent echoed these sentiments, sharing personal experiences and the emotional toll on their child and the community. They urged the board to reconsider their decisions and prioritize the well-being of students.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing concern among educators and parents about the direction of KCS and the implications of recent staffing changes. As the board considers these issues, the community is looking for clear answers and a commitment to supporting both students and staff in the wake of these significant changes.