This morning, our school counselors gathered for one of the most meaningful traditions of the season—the Johnia Berry Toy Drive distribution. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, these toys will go directly to BTCS students who might otherwise go without gifts this Christmas.

BTCS Family Resource Center Coordinator Kay Ward, who oversees the district’s collection and distribution efforts, shared that “everything collected in Bristol stays in Bristol.” School counselors come with specific wish lists in hand, choosing toys for children who are not participants in other holiday programs like Santa Pal or the Salvation Army Angel Tree.

Today’s “toy store” was made possible by many dedicated partners:

🎄 The Bristol TN/VA Realtors Association and their unforgettable Christmas in July event
🎄 Johnia Berry Holiday Toy Drive 2025
🎄 Toy collections at local Food City locations
🎄 A hardworking crew of King University students, organized by Coach Kyleigh Payne, who unloaded and sorted toys so today could run smoothly
🎄 Tennessee High School Civinettes who fundraised, purchased, donated toys, and helped set things up for today’s school counselor distribution

Counselors selected toys in rounds, matching gifts to the wishes and needs of students across our district. The joy in the room was contagious!

✨ Thank you to every partner, volunteer, and donor who made today possible. Because of you, our students will feel the love and magic of the season.

1 day ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
School counselors sort through donated toys in a room filled with tables of items. A woman in a bright pink vest stands in the foreground selecting a toy. Colorful boxed toys, including large Nerf and action-figure sets, fill the table in front of her.
Several adults stand behind tables full of toys as one woman in a red sweater addresses the group. The room is lined with school banners, bicycles, and displays of STEM kits and children’s games. A TV screen behind them shows a decorated Christmas room.
Rows of tables are filled with donated toys—dolls, playsets, stuffed animals, and children’s gift items—arranged in a school room decorated with banners for local elementary schools. A large TV on the back wall displays a Christmas fireplace scene.
A close-up view of a table packed with toys, including Hot Wheels sets, Nerf products, remote-control cars, action figures, and various boxed playsets. Stuffed animals and bicycles are visible in the background.
A table displays STEM kits, classic board games, art kits, and children’s toys, with National Geographic butterfly and rock/mineral science kits prominently stacked on the left. A holiday fireplace scene plays on a TV mounted on the wall behind the table.
Tennessee High School Art Club students unveiled a one-of-a-kind snowplow blade on Thursday, December 4, as part of a partnership with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). The project, revealed at the entrance of the historic Stone Castle, highlights both student creativity and an important message about winter driving safety.

Over the past several weeks, THS Art Club members designed and hand-painted the plow blade as part of TDOT’s Paint the Plow initiative, which engages students in promoting safe driving behaviors during hazardous winter conditions. The finished design features local imagery, a “Drive Slow” safety message, and the students’ own artistic interpretation of Bristol and Tennessee High.

Art teacher Shawn Graham said the project offered students a meaningful way to serve the community while using their artistic skills to raise awareness.

“Our students are concerned about promoting safe roads for friends, family, and everyone who travels through our area,” Graham said. “They planned, organized, and painted every part of this design, and we’re grateful to TDOT and Principal Kim Kirk for giving them this opportunity.”

Students who were instrumental to the project include Lilly Chatten, Karma Laurie, Kailey Caudle, Evan Vance, Gavin Yates, Jade Worley, Brooke Bird, and Jack Blevins.

TDOT representative Drew Rutherford worked closely with the group throughout the project. The completed blade—provided by Sullivan County DOT—will be put into service this winter, clearing snow and ice from interstate lanes and state routes across Sullivan County.

The unveiling celebrated both the students’ hard work and the community partnership that made the project possible.
5 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
A collage-style graphic showing Tennessee High School Art Club students and TDOT staff posing in front of a snowplow, along with a close-up of the painted plow blade. The blade features a hand-painted Bristol-themed design with stonework, a yellow “Drive Slow” sign, and “THS Art Club” on the side. At the bottom of the graphic is the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) logo on a gray background.

Our middle and high school students got an incredible hands-on look at high-demand careers this week thanks to the Be Pro Be Proud mobile workshop! From welding to robotics to utility line work, students explored real-world skills and pathways.
Read the full story here: www.btcs.org/article/2581701.

5 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
A group of middle school students inside the Be Pro Be Proud mobile workshop use virtual-reality construction simulators. Two students wear VR headsets while others watch and wait their turn, surrounded by construction-themed graphics and screens.
A Tennessee High School CTE student in a red shirt coaches a younger student who is seated at a commercial driving simulator, steering through a virtual roadway displayed on large curved screens.
A student wearing a welding helmet practices on the virtual welding simulator while a Tennessee High CTE volunteer stands beside him. Welding equipment and an instructional screen are visible in the background.
A Be Pro Be Proud staff member demonstrates a heavy-equipment simulator, pointing to the multi-screen display as a student in the operator seat uses the controls.
Two students work together on a heavy-equipment simulator, using joystick controls to operate a virtual excavator displayed on three large screens.
A BTES apprentice lineman helps a student try on protective lineman gloves inside the Be Pro Be Proud mobile workshop. The student looks at the gloves while the apprentice explains how they are used.
A student stands in a lineman bucket simulator wearing a VR headset and operating handheld controls while two BTES linemen observe and guide him.
Tennessee High school students in Tammy English’s 1st and 4th period classes got a hands-on lesson in real-world financial decision-making today thanks to volunteers from Regions Bank.

Through an interactive activity called Reality Check, students were assigned a job, salary or hourly wage, and even life circumstances—like children or additional expenses. From there, they had to budget wisely, pay monthly bills, make choices about housing and transportation, and sometimes even pick up a second job to make ends meet.

The goal? Finish with at least $200 left in the bank—a challenge that sparked great discussion, problem-solving, and plenty of “aha!” moments.

We’re grateful to Regions Bank for partnering with our students and helping them build essential life skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom!
6 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
A group of high school students sits together reviewing their Reality Check worksheets, discussing transportation and food budget options at their table.
A set of table tents labeled “Utilities” and “Housing” sits on a classroom table alongside printed Reality Check worksheets used in the budgeting simulation.
Two Regions Bank volunteers assist students at separate tables as they calculate expenses; students are completing worksheets for the Reality Check budgeting lesson.
A Regions Bank volunteer meets with a student at the cell phone and subscriptions station, explaining monthly costs as part of the Reality Check activity.
A Regions Bank volunteer in a green sweater discusses housing budget options with a student who is reviewing the Reality Check worksheet.
A male Regions Bank volunteer in a suit speaks with a group of students as they complete their transportation and food budgeting sheets.
A Regions Bank volunteer leans over a student’s desk, helping him work through his budgeting worksheet during the Reality Check simulation.
A Regions Bank representative holds up a checking account register and explains budgeting instructions to students during the Reality Check activity.
A classroom of high school students sits at grouped tables while five Regions Bank volunteers stand at the front of the room introducing the Reality Check budgeting activity.
Today is National Special Education Day. We’re grateful for the teachers, support staff, and families who work every day to help all our students grow and succeed. Thank you for the impact you make across our district!
8 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
A maroon background with a large white square centered in the middle. Around the edges are illustrated school-themed stickers, including a graduation cap, apple, paint palette, backpack, scissors, globe, calculator, pencils, notebook, ruler, and autumn leaves. In the center, bold text reads “National Special Education Day” and below it “December 2, 2025.” At the bottom is the Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo.
Happy Thanksgiving! Today we’re especially grateful for our students, families, staff, and community. We hope everyone enjoys a warm and meaningful holiday.
13 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
“Happy Thanksgiving. Be Thankful. November 27.” Center text surrounded by illustrated turkey, fall foods, scattered autumn leaves, and three pumpkins along the bottom. Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo included.

🎉 Congratulations to Our 2024–2025 Tennessee Reward Schools! 🎉

We are proud to announce that three Bristol Tennessee City Schools have been named Reward Schools by the Tennessee Department of Education—an honor recognizing outstanding student success in both achievement and growth.

Haynesfield Elementary
Tennessee Online Public School (TOPS)
Holston View Elementary

This distinction represents the hard work of our students, the dedication of our teachers and staff, and the strong support of our families and community. We are incredibly proud of each school for earning one of the state’s highest recognitions.

Help us celebrate these schools and their continued commitment to excellence!

19 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic announcing three Bristol Tennessee City Schools named 2024–2025 Tennessee Reward Schools. The top banner reads “2024–2025 Reward School.” Logos for Haynesfield Hurricanes, Tennessee Online Public School (TOPS), and Holston View Owls appear in the center. A footer states “Recognition for Outstanding Student Success in Achievement & Growth” alongside the Tennessee Department of Education logo.

🎨 BTCS Named a 2025 Tennessee Arts Academy Arts Partner
🎭 Tennessee High School Selected as a 2025 TAA Partner School

Bristol Tennessee City Schools is proud to be recognized as a Tennessee Arts Academy 2025 Arts Partner, and Tennessee High School has been named a 2025 Tennessee Arts Academy Partner School.

The arts are an essential part of every student's education. This recognition highlights our district’s commitment to ensuring that every student has access to high-quality arts education and that our arts educators receive the support, resources, and professional learning they need to help students thrive.

We are honored to stand alongside school systems and schools across Tennessee that make the arts a priority for their students and communities.

20 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
“Tennessee Arts Academy Arts Partner logo for the 2025–2026 academic year. The circular logo features four colorful icons representing architecture, music, visual arts, and dance, with the words ‘Tennessee Arts Academy’ and ‘Arts Partner 2025–2026 Academic Year’ below.”

🏆 We’re proud to announce that the Stone Castle has been honored with the Tennessee School Boards Association’s 2025 School of the Year Award in the Renovation category!

This recognition celebrates the incredible work of Community Tectonics Architects, Inc. and the dedication of our Bristol Tennessee Board of Education to preserving one of our community’s most iconic landmarks.

The renovation maintains the Stone Castle’s historic character while enhancing its use for Tennessee High School athletics and other major school events.

Congratulations to everyone who helped bring this project to life! For more on the Stone Castle's renovation, see https://ths.btcs.org/o/ths/article/1766776.
#VikingPride #StoneCastle #BTCS

22 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
A group of six adults stands together indoors in front of a gray backdrop, smiling for a photo. Two people hold glass TSBA awards. Several individuals wear white shirts with the Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo, while others are dressed in professional attire. They appear to be attending a conference or awards event, as shown by their name badges and lanyards.

Today we honor and remember all veterans who serve and have served our nation with courage and dedication. Bristol Tennessee City Schools is grateful to all who defend our freedom and inspire generations through their service. Thank you for your sacrifice and commitment to our country.

29 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic with a blue background covered in faint stars. White text reads “Veterans Day – Honoring All Who Served.” Below it, “November 11, 2025.” Red and white stripes frame the top and bottom. Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo is at the bottom.

As temperatures begin to drop, it's important to stay informed about potential schedule changes! ❄️📅 If there's a two-hour delay, school will start two hours later than usual and will dismiss at the regular time. For schedule change procedures and the best ways to stay informed when winter weather hits, check our website at www.btcs.org/schedulechanges.

This awesome graphic was designed by Ready Workforce Institute student worker, Dixie Proulex, in Canva. Thanks, Dixie!

about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
A Bristol Tennessee City Schools graphic titled “School Schedule Changes.” It asks, “What is a two-hour delay?” and lists start times: “TMS/THS – 9:30 a.m.” and “Elementary – 10:10 a.m.” A small bear wearing a green hat with an orange pom-pom, a scarf, and skates appears on the lower right, standing in front of evergreen trees. The web address www.btcs.org/schedulechanges is at the bottom.

Basketball Cheerleading Registration Is Open!
Get ready to show your school spirit! Boys and girls in grades K–5 are invited to join Dale Burns Youth Sports Cheerleading — a fun, confidence-building program that teaches teamwork, leadership, and Viking pride.

📅 Registration: November 3–December 15
💲 Fee: $35 (covers all youth sports for the entire year)
🏆 Games begin: January 17

📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit https://bristoltn.recdesk.com
to register today!

Proudly presented by Bristol Parks & Recreation and Bristol Tennessee City Schools.

about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Flyer for Dale Burns Youth Sports Basketball Cheerleading Registration. The design features maroon and white colors with silhouettes of cheerleaders holding pom-poms. Text reads: “Basketball Cheerleading Registration — K–5. Registration: November 3–December 15. Games begin January 17. The fee of $35 allows your student to participate in youth sports for the entire year.” A QR code appears in the bottom right corner next to the registration link https://bristoltn.recdesk.com/. Logos for Bristol Parks & Recreation and Bristol Tennessee City Schools are displayed at the top. The layout uses bold, angled typography and energetic cheer graphics to convey spirit and excitement.

🏀 Youth Basketball Registration Is Open!
Calling all future athletes — boys and girls in grades K-5 — it’s time to hit the court!

Register now for Dale Burns Youth Sports Basketball, a fun and affordable way to learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and skills that last a lifetime.

📅 Registration: November 3–December 15
💲 Fee: $35 (covers all youth sports for the entire year!)
👟 Practices begin: January 5
🏆 Games begin: January 17
🧢 Coaches: Sign up by December 1 — clinic on January 3

👉 Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit https://bristoltn.recdesk.com
to register today!

Proudly presented by Bristol Tennessee City Schools and Bristol Parks & Recreation.

about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
“Dale Burns Youth Sports Basketball Registration — Boys and Girls Grades K–5. November 3–December 15. The fee of $35 allows your student to participate in youth sports for the entire year. Coaching clinic: January 3. Deadline to sign up to coach: December 1. Practices begin: January 5. Games begin: January 17.” A QR code is centered over the basketball hoop. At the bottom are logos for Bristol Parks & Recreation and Bristol Tennessee City Schools, along with the registration link: https://bristoltn.recdesk.com/ . The overall color palette includes orange, brown, and tan with navy blue text accents.
It’s National School Psychology Week! We are grateful for Dr. Michael Hopkins and his continued support of BTCS students. We also welcome interns Yilena Betancourt and Jake Metsky, who are working alongside Dr. Hopkins and Frontier Health through the Northeast Tennessee Psychology Internship Consortium.
about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Illustrated graphic showing a student with a backpack and lacrosse stick walking on a forest path toward a red brick school building. Text reads: “School Psychologists: THANK YOU for supporting our students! #SchoolPsychWeek.” Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo appears at the bottom.

🎉 Calling all problem-solvers and curious minds! 🚀
We’re thrilled to open registration for the 2025-26 Elementary Robotics Program at our schools.
Let’s “power up” for a year of innovation, collaboration, and epic robot moments. Share this with friends and get ready to build something amazing together! ⚙️🤖
Watch video here: https://youtu.be/HxuS3ozH4mQ
Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/bdfdzd2m

about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Digital graphic promoting the BTCS Elementary Robotics program. A sleek silver-and-teal humanoid robot kneels in a ready position against a dark blue tech-inspired background. The text reads “BTCS Elementary Robotics — New Term Incoming,” with smaller icons labeled “Technology,” “STEM,” and “Robot.” The overall design conveys innovation and excitement for a new robotics season.

🎉 Congratulations to the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education!

We’re proud to share that our BTCS Board of Education has been recognized by the Tennessee School Boards Association as a Board of Distinction—a reflection of their dedication, collaboration, and steadfast commitment to the students, staff, and families of Bristol Tennessee City Schools.

Their leadership continues to make a positive difference in our schools and community every day.

Learn more about this achievement ➡️ www.btcs.org/article/2520680

about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic with a maroon and gray background featuring the text “Congratulations Bristol Tennessee Board of Education” and “TSBA Board of Distinction.” Below the text are five members of the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education smiling and standing together, with one member holding a framed plaque. The Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo appears at the bottom.

Closing out our National Principals Month spotlight series is Dr. Luke Douthat, principal of Tennessee Middle School!

“Dr. Douthat is a good principal for many amazing reasons. He is so warm and understanding… He is never in a bad mood. Every time I see him, he is always giving a smile or asking, ‘How was your day?’ or saying, ‘Have a good day,’ and is such a sweet principal.” — McKinley, 8th grade

Dr. Douthat’s kindness and positivity set the tone for Tennessee Middle. His genuine care for students and daily encouragement make TMS a place where everyone feels welcome and supported.

about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic featuring a professional photo of Dr. Luke Douthat wearing a light blue shirt, blue tie, and gray plaid suit jacket. Text reads: “Tennessee Middle School. National Principals Month. Dr. Luke Douthat, Principal, Tennessee Middle School. ‘Dr. Douthat is a good principal for many amazing reasons. He is so warm and understanding … he is never in a bad mood. Every time I see him, he always is giving a smile or asking ‘How was your day?’ or saying, ‘Have a good day’ and is such a sweet principal.’ —McKinley, 8th grade.” Includes the Tennessee Middle Vikings logo at the top left, #ThankAPrincipal, and the Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo at the bottom right.

Our next National Principals Month spotlight features Denise McKee, principal of Avoca Elementary School!

“Ms. McKee works very hard. She helps the teachers, and then teachers help us. She is important.” — Logan, 2nd grade
“One time, Ms. McKee said I was a good leader, and that made me feel appreciated.” — Bowie, 5th grade

Ms. McKee’s dedication and encouragement uplift everyone at Avoca. Her support for both teachers and students helps the entire school community grow stronger together.

about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic featuring a professional photo of Denise McKee wearing a pink top and cardigan. Text reads: “Avoca Elementary School. National Principals Month. Denise McKee, Principal, Avoca Elementary School. ‘Ms. McKee works very hard. She helps the teachers and then teachers help us. She is important.’ —Logan, 2nd grade. ‘One time, Ms. McKee said I was a good leader and that made me feel appreciated.’ —Bowie, 5th grade.” Includes the Avoca school logo at the top left, #ThankAPrincipal, and the Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo at the bottom right.
Our next National Principals Month spotlight features Kim Kirk, principal of Tennessee High School!

“Mrs. Kirk makes us feel valued with things like ‘Super Student’! She appreciates all of us, no matter what group we fit into.” — Jade, 12th grade

Mrs. Kirk’s leadership celebrates every student’s strengths and achievements. Her encouragement and inclusiveness help make Tennessee High a place where every Viking belongs.
about 2 months ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic featuring a professional photo of Kim Kirk wearing a white blouse with black polka dots. Text reads: “Tennessee High School. National Principals Month. Kim Kirk, Principal, Tennessee High School. ‘Mrs. Kirk makes us feel valued with things like ‘Super Student’! She appreciates all of us, no matter what group we fit into.’ —Jade, 12th grade.” Includes the Tennessee High Vikings logo at the top left, #ThankAPrincipal, and the Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo at the bottom right.

🎉 Congratulations, BTCS! 🎉
Bristol Tennessee City Schools earned top 20 state achievement rankings in multiple subject areas for the 2024–25 school year!

🏅 Geometry
🏅 Science (Grades 3, 5 & 6)
🏅 Social Studies (Grades 6 & 8 and Overall 3-8)
🏅 U.S. History

We’re proud of our students, teachers, and staff for their hard work and dedication to academic excellence!

about 2 months ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Top20TCAP