Dear Knox County Schools’ families 7 

By Dr. Jim McIntyre, Superintendent of Knox County Schools

Dear Knox County Schools’ Families,

This month’s “Get Active!” theme is timely because the Knox County Schools has recently received local and national recognition for making healthy strides.

Last year, our Coordinated School Health Department for Knox County Schools helped organize the community’s inaugural Let’s Move! Event, where several organizations and businesses partnered to provide unique opportunities for families to learn how to make healthier choices through nutrition and exercise.

In recognition of our community’s dedication to leading healthier lifestyles, the National League of Cities recently awarded Knox County and the City of Knoxville with a #1 national ranking in reaching its key health and wellness goals. Our community was specifically acknowledged for working cooperatively to take action to improve access to affordable, healthy food and increasing opportunities for physical activity.

The Knox County Schools has a superior school nutrition program that is transforming our menus with healthy options that appeal to kids.  In fact, Jon Dickl, our Knox County Schools Director of School Nutrition, was recently featured on the First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! blog.

Finally, students from Sarah Moore Greene Magnet Academy were invited by First Lady Obama to help plant the White House Kitchen Garden.  The garden represents the First Lady’s ongoing efforts to engage in a national conversation around the health and well-being of our nation.  Sarah Moore Greene Magnet Academy students joined three schools from across the nation in helping to plant the garden.  Schools selected to participate demonstrated exceptional improvements to school lunches and nutrition.  Students at Sarah Moore Greene recently started a Jeffersonian Heirloom Garden and connected the project to 3rd-5th grade social studies coursework on America’s history, highlighting American presidents who have had a role in gardening and land stewardship.

Certainly these are magnificent honors, and I couldn’t be more proud for our students and staff. As we head into the summer months, I encourage families to continue this momentum by incorporating exercise and healthy eating choices into your daily routines.

Please do not hesitate to call us at (865) 594-1800 or visit us at knoxschools.org if we can be of assistance to you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jim McIntyre
Superintendent, Knox County Schools