
🎉 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!

🎨 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.
🏆 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

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.

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!

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.

🏀 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.


🎉 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

🎉 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

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.

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.

“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.

🎉 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!

This week is National School Bus Safety Week! 🚌
We’re celebrating the drivers, students, and staff who make each ride to and from school safe and respectful. Remember to Be Responsible, Use Respect, and Stay Safe.
Learn more about BTCS bus rules and watch our safety video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=640Yg-4ZaM0

“He is funny and very, very smart!” — Soren, 1st grade
“He’s really nice. He helped me pack up to go home when I was sick.” — Priscilla, 1st grade
Mr. Sproles brings a perfect mix of humor, heart, and dedication to Anderson. Whether he’s making students laugh or lending a helping hand, his care and positivity make a lasting impact on everyone he meets.

Our next National Principals Month spotlight features Kayla McMeans, principal of Holston View Elementary School!
“She is kind to everyone, and she knows my name.” — Wrenley, Kindergarten
“Ms. McMeans has the coolest office. Did you know that she has a candy machine?” — Mason, Kindergarten
At Holston View, Ms. McMeans leads with heart—bringing laughter and a sense of belonging to the school community.


“She is really good at keeping kids safe.” — Fallon, Kindergarten
“We like to give her hugs.” — Liam, Kindergarten
Mrs. Hardin’s caring spirit and joyful energy make Haynesfield a place where students feel valued, supported, and excited to come to school each day.

