Students in Bristol Tennessee City Schools will soon have even more opportunities to explore future careers thanks to a new grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership, in collaboration with BTES, the City of Bristol, TN, and Bristol Tennessee City Schools, has been awarded a Workforce Invest Grant to support collaborative efforts in training and education.
Real-World Learning Experiences
The grant will help revitalize Career Connections Week and give students the chance to meet local business and community leaders.
In addition, funding will support the purchase of Junior Achievement curriculum and the development of JA BizTown Mobile — a fully immersive experience where students run a simulated city for a day. From managing businesses to balancing a budget, students will practice real-world skills in an exciting and engaging way.
“Through hands-on curriculum and authentic engagement with local employers, students begin to see themselves in meaningful careers and understand the skills they’ll need to get there,” said Callie Archer, president of Junior Achievement of East Tennessee.
Preparing Students for the Future
Director of Schools Dr. Annette Tudor said these experiences are vital:
“Preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow requires real-world experiences today. This program gives our students early exposure to career pathways and shows them that opportunity exists right here at home.”
Clayton Dowell, CEO of BTES, emphasized that these efforts not only benefit students but also help strengthen the local workforce:
“We know that a thriving workforce is built through education, hands-on learning, and strong partnerships. The TVA Workforce Invest Grant allows us to invest in our youth and demonstrate the careers waiting for them in the Tennessee Valley.”
With support from all these community partners, Bristol Tennessee City Schools students will gain early, meaningful exposure to career pathways — helping them dream big and prepare for success in the future.