Bristol Tennessee City Schools will be closed on Tuesday, February 24.
about 10 hours ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic with a blue background featuring a blue alarm clock wrapped in a light blue knitted scarf. Text at the top reads “BRISTOL TENNESSEE CITY SCHOOLS.” A red diagonal stamp says “IMPORTANT UPDATE.” Large text in the center reads “CLOSED.” At the bottom, text reads “TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24.” The Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo appears in the lower left corner.
We are proud to share that Dominic Shipley has advanced from National Merit Semifinalist to National Merit Finalist in the 2026 National Merit® Scholarship Program.

As a Finalist, Dominic is now eligible to compete for one of approximately 6,930 National Merit Scholarships that will be awarded in 2026.

This is an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects Dominic’s hard work and dedication.

Please join us in congratulating Dominic on this incredible achievement. We are so proud to celebrate this milestone with him.
7 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic with a maroon background and gold script reading “Congratulations” at the top. Below, the name Dominic Shipley appears above a formal senior portrait of a student wearing glasses, a black tuxedo, white shirt, and black bow tie against a blue studio backdrop. A white banner at the bottom reads “National Merit Scholarship Finalist.”
Today marks President’s Day, a national holiday dedicated to honoring the presidents of the United States. The observance dates back to the celebration of George Washington’s birthday and continues as a time to reflect on the history of the presidency. Today we honor the individuals who have served as president and the role the office has played throughout American history.
8 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic from Bristol Tennessee City Schools on a navy blue background with a stylized American flag in the top left corner and red, white, and blue confetti on the right. Text reads “Happy President’s Day” with “February 16, 2026” below. A blue silhouette of a government building with a flag on top spans the bottom of the image. The Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo appears at the top.
Today is SRO Appreciation Day, and we proudly celebrate our school resource officers across Bristol Tennessee City Schools.

These dedicated men and women do so much more than keep our schools safe. They build relationships. They mentor. They listen. They show up every single day for our students and staff.

Please join us in thanking our school resource officers for the difference they make in the lives of our students.
9 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Nine-panel graphic honoring School Resource Officer Appreciation Day. Eight uniformed school resource officers are pictured in their respective school settings, each labeled with their name and school: Officer Julian Riojas (Viking Academy), Officer Aaron Colley (Tennessee High School), Officer Freddy Owens (Haynesfield Elementary), Officer Josh Graham (Avoca Elementary), Officer Sherman Eury (Tennessee Middle School), Officer Storme Rivera (Anderson Elementary), Officer Mallory Berezny (Holston View Elementary), and Officer Jonathan Gragg (Fairmount Elementary). The center panel features the Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo and the message, “Thank you, School Resource Officers!” in maroon text.

Vikings United launched this school year as a schoolwide support organization designed to keep resources local, strengthen school pride, and create meaningful experiences for students and staff. From teacher appreciation efforts and student events to long-term projects, this group is already making an impact.

Most importantly, Vikings United was created with one clear message:

If you care about Tennessee High, you belong here.

Whether you are a parent, alum, staff member, business partner, or community supporter, there are many ways to get involved.

Read the full story to learn how Vikings United is building something special at Tennessee High and how you can be part of it. https://www.btcs.org/article/2709261

11 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Collage graphic highlighting Vikings United at Tennessee High School. Images include three women standing at a Vikings United booth with a banner, a Snowball Winter Semi-Formal Dance announcement, a large dessert table, a teacher appreciation display with the school building, breakfast items for staff, and two women posing with the Viking mascot holding a gift basket. The center features the Vikings United logo with the words “Culture • Community • Fundraising.”
You’re invited to celebrate the incredible creativity of our students at the 11th Annual Virginia Duff Fine Arts Festival! 🎨🎶

Join us Thursday, February 26, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Tennessee Middle School for a districtwide K–12 showcase featuring a professional student art show and live vocal and instrumental performances.

Bring your family, invite a friend, and grab dinner from one of the local food trucks—we can’t wait to see you there! 💜
12 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Alt text: Graphic promoting the 11th Annual Virginia Duff Fine Arts Festival. The design features soft overlapping circles in pastel purple, blue, and green tones. At the top right, it reads, “The community is invited.” Centered text reads: “11th Annual Virginia Duff Fine Arts Festival.” Event details: Thursday, February 26, 5:30–7:30 p.m., at Tennessee Middle School, 840 Alabama St., Bristol, TN. The graphic describes the event as a districtwide K–12 fine arts extravaganza including a professional student art show and student vocal and instrumental ensembles. It notes that the art show and musical performances will occur at the same time, allowing attendees to move through the event at their own pace. A line at the bottom reads, “Grab dinner from one of the local food trucks.” The Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo appears in the lower right corner.
Huge congratulations to Deidre Pendley, our career and technical education director!

We’re proud to celebrate Ms. Pendley for receiving both the East Tennessee Trailblazer Award and the Tennessee State Trailblazer Award from the Tennessee Directors of Career and Technical Education (TDCTE), a well-deserved honor.

The Trailblazer Award recognizes CTE directors with six or more years of service who demonstrate extraordinary leadership at the local level while making a meaningful impact across the state or nation. Ms. Pendley exemplifies that standard in every way. Through her visionary leadership, she has championed high-quality CTE programs that open doors for students, support and empower teachers, and strengthen workforce pathways for our community.

Her work reflects innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to student success—along with active engagement in professional, civic, and community efforts that elevate CTE across East Tennessee and beyond.

We are incredibly grateful for Deidre’s leadership and proud to see her recognized as a true trailblazer for career and technical education.
15 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Deidre Pendley smiles while holding two glass TDCTE Trailblazer Award plaques—one for East Tennessee and one for the state of Tennessee—wearing a black TDCTE jacket and conference badge against a neutral background.

Looking for extra academic support for your child this spring? 🌱

Bristol Tennessee City Schools is offering Spring Intersession (March 17–19) and a Flexible Learning Day (March 23) to help students strengthen skills, stay engaged, and keep learning moving forward.

Register by March 6 to take advantage of this additional learning opportunity! www.btcs.org/page/flexible-learning-day

15 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic promoting Bristol Tennessee City Schools’ Spring Intercession and Flexible Learning Day. Three photos across the top show elementary students reading together, middle school students raising their hands in class, and an elementary student writing at a desk. Text reads: “Spring Intersession & Flexible Learning Day – Register Now.” Dates listed below: “Intersession: March 17–19” and “Flexible Learning Day: March 23.”

Bristol Tennessee City Schools is excited to announce the appointment of David Adkisson as our new chief financial officer. David brings nearly 15 years of combined government and school finance experience to this role. He began his career with the City of Bristol, Tennessee, where he served in multiple accounting roles.
David joined Bristol Tennessee City Schools in September 2015 as a general accountant, with his role expanding to lead accountant in 2020. He has served as our interim chief financial officer since September 2025.
A graduate of East Tennessee State University, David holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and a Master of Accountancy degree. He also served on the board of the Tennessee Association of School Business Officials from 2022 to 2024, supporting professional development and advocacy for school finance leaders across the state.

15 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Administrative announcement graphic from Bristol Tennessee City Schools featuring a professional headshot of David Adkisson. Text reads: “David Adkisson, chief financial officer.”
Today, we’re celebrating our high school counselors! Students shared thoughtful words about the counselors who support, guide, and encourage them as they plan for the future.

Ms. Bartley
“Ms. Bartley is always quick to support her students, taking the time to ensure every schedule is thoughtfully designed to align with each student’s goals and future plans.”
-- Kate

“Ms. Bartley explained graduation and college requirements clearly and made sure I understood why each choice mattered.”
-- Palmer

Ms. Arnold
“She plays one of the most important roles in school by making sure kids feel safe and secure while still being able to learn.”
-- Anthony

Ms. Snyder
“Ms. Snyder cares so deeply about every student beyond just our classes.”
-- Lily

“I love Ms. Snyder. She is so helpful and has a great vibe.”
-- Ainsley

Mr. Henry
“Mr. Henry is very understanding.”
-- Jayla

“Mr. Henry has been really helpful in helping me adjust to college, and he is always quick to answer any questions I have.”
-- Riley

Ms. Singleton
“Ms. Singleton will go out of her way to talk to you and ask how your day was.”
-- David

“Ms. Singleton is an angel on this earth.”
-- Aiden

Thank you to our high school counselors for the guidance, care, and encouragement you provide our students every day. 💛
18 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic for National School Counseling Week from the American School Counselor Association. Text reads “National School Counseling Week” and “School Counselors Amplify Student Success.” Five circular headshots are shown with name labels: Alexis Arnold, Whitney Singleton, Reece Henry, Ali Bartley, and Kristi Snyder. Large text reads “Thank You, School Counselors.” Bottom text reads “Bristol Tennessee City Schools” with the BTCS “B” logo. Dark blue background with colorful soundwave-style graphics behind the portraits.
Today, during National School Counseling Appreciation Week, we want to recognize and thank our Frontier Health school-based counselors who partner with Bristol Tennessee City Schools to support our students’ mental health and well-being.

Through our collaboration with Frontier Health, these dedicated counselors provide counseling and case management services to students and support to school staff—helping remove barriers to learning and strengthening the academic and emotional success of the children we serve. We are grateful for their expertise, compassion, and commitment to our students and families. 💙

Thank you to our Frontier Health partners for the vital role you play in supporting student success—today and every day.
19 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic for National School Counseling Week featuring the American School Counselor Association logo and the message “School Counselors Amplify Student Success.” The graphic recognizes Frontier Health school-based counselors with name labels: Cassie Leonard, Morgian Lopez, Valerie Caudill, Joseph Smithdeal, Tiffany Rivera, Harlow Rhudy, and Victoria Grant. Text at the bottom reads, “Thank You, School Counselors,” with “Bristol Tennessee City Schools” and the dates “Feb. 2–6, 2026.”
Bristol Tennessee City Schools will be closed on Thursday, February 5.
19 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Blue graphic with falling snow and icicles at the top reads “Bristol Tennessee City Schools.” Large bold text in the center says “Closed,” followed by “February 5, 2026.” A snowflake and a thermometer icon appear near the bottom, indicating cold weather.

Today we’re celebrating our middle school counselors! Students shared thoughtful words about the TMS counselors who support, encourage, and uplift them each day.

Mr. Stevens
“He is very funny and uplifting. He can make your day good.”
— Emma

“Mr. Stevens is very helpful to the students.”
— Robby

Ms. Abel
“Very fun and nice, understanding, and a great person overall.”
— Coleman

“I like to go to Ms. Abel because I feel like I can trust her with a lot of stuff. She is very nice and understanding. She is also a great listener.”
— Kambri

Ms. Patterson
“Ms. Patterson is so kind when I go see her. When I do go see her, she shares her own personal experiences that make me comfortable with my own.”
— Asher

“Ms. Patterson gives me great advice. It helps me through my life.”
— Jaylynn

Thank you to our school counselors for the impact you make every day. 💛

20 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic recognizing National School Counseling Week. The American School Counselor Association logo appears at the top with the text “National School Counseling Week” and the theme “School Counselors Amplify Student Success.” Three counselor headshots are shown with names: Miranda Abel, Daniel Stevens, and Amanda Patterson. The dates “Feb. 2–6, 2026” appear on the right. The message “Thank You, School Counselors” is displayed above the Bristol Tennessee City Schools name and logo on a navy background with colorful soundwave-style graphics.

Today we’re celebrating our elementary school counselors! Students and staff had so many meaningful things to say about the gifted professionals who support our schools each day.

Anderson Elementary

“Ms. Evans is deeply committed to serving students in addition to meeting the needs of the entire family. She loves to tell stories and is one of the big reasons that makes our Anderson family so great.”
— Mr. Sproles, principal

Avoca Elementary

“Ms. Hyden plans engaging lessons monthly to teach my third graders about important topics, such as self-love, safety, and test-taking strategies.”
— Ms. Kinch, teacher

“Ms. Hyden is fun and teaches us important things.”
— Clara Light, student

Fairmount Elementary

“Ms. Henley is a wonderful school counselor who truly cares about our students. She’s always kind, patient, and willing to listen, and she helps our students feel comfortable and supported. Our school is a better place because of her dedication, positivity, and genuine concern for everyone’s well-being.”
— Ms. Mason, teacher

“I love Ms. Henley because she is trustworthy and a good friend. She is nice and kind and puts our needs first.”
— Bradford, fifth grade student

Haynesfield Elementary

“Ms. Combs serves our students with relevant guidance lessons that cover everything from being a good friend to internet safety. She’s available for one-on-one counseling when kids need someone to listen, and she leads lunch bunch groups to help students develop lifelong skills like communication. She also supports our staff whenever we have questions or concerns about how to best support our students. Ms. Combs is here for all of Haynesfield!”
— Ms. Ragan, teacher

“She helps me when I am sad. She will talk to me and help to cheer me up.”
— Luna, third grade student

“She gives tips for next time—like if it happens again, you know what to do.”
— Brooklyn, third grade student

Holston View Elementary

“Ms. Logan is a wonderful asset to the students at Holston View. In my own classroom, she has supported students and gone above and beyond every day. She does regular check-ins and is always there to lend a helpful hand or a listening ear. I am beyond grateful for her and all the wonderful ways she supports my students and me. She is amazing!”
— Ms. Grindstaff, teacher

“She talks to us when we are having a hard time and helps us calm down.”
— Kyson, fourth grade student

“She helps everyone with their problems.”
— Nick, fifth grade student

21 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic for National School Counseling Week featuring the American School Counselor Association logo and the message “School Counselors Amplify Student Success.” Five circular headshots of elementary school counselors are shown with name labels: Amy Evans, Courtney Combs, Chelsea Hyden, Nancy Henley, and Alexis Logan. Text at the bottom reads, “Thank You, School Counselors.”
Today we kick off National School Counseling Week, and we're celebrating the incredible professionals who support our students every single day.

From helping students navigate challenges to championing their goals and well-being, their impact reaches far beyond the counseling office.

This week (and every week), we are grateful for all you do for our students, families, and schools.
22 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Graphic titled “School Counselor” with a list describing the role of a school counselor. The text reads: “A patient, empathetic, and resourceful professional who helps students with their goals and challenges; a multi-tasking ninja who collaborates with teachers, administrators, and parents to develop and implement plans for diverse learners, advocating for students, fostering resilience, and restoring hope; a natural-born problem-solver who often thinks outside the box; and a real-life superhero who doesn’t wear a cape.” The background is beige with playful school-themed icons, including an envelope with a heart, a lightbulb, pencils, flowers, and colorful doodles.
This week, we proudly celebrate School Board Appreciation Week and honor the dedicated members of the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education.

Local leadership truly creates a lasting impact. From decisions in the boardroom to opportunities in the classroom, our school board members lead with purpose, vision, and a deep commitment to putting students first. Their service helps shape strong schools today and builds brighter futures for generations to come.

Thank you to our school board members for your time, leadership, and unwavering dedication to our students, staff, and community.
29 days ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Five members of the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education stand together beneath the headline “Local Leadership, Lasting Impact.” The graphic recognizes Tennessee School Board Appreciation Week, January 25–31, 2026, and features red and blue star accents with a celebratory background.
We’re excited to launch Be Present! Every Viking. Every Day. Attendance matters! Showing up builds confidence, connection, and success. Watch this video to hear some Vikings share why they show up each day. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGy3WYPMQtg
about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Illustration of a smiling Viking mascot wearing a horned helmet and giving a thumbs up. The Viking holds a circular shield with the words “Be Present!” above raised hands in orange and teal. Large maroon text on the right reads “EVERY VIKING EVERY DAY” on a black background.
Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and reflect on his commitment to service, justice, and equality.
about 1 month ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
An American flag draped across the top of the image. Centered below are five red stars above blue text reading ‘Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.’ Smaller text below reads ‘Monday, January 19, 2026.’ The Bristol Tennessee City Schools name and logo appear at the bottom.
✨ Restoring a Crown: Tennessee High’s Finial Returns to Its Historic Skyline ✨

During recent roof work at Tennessee High School, crews uncovered evidence of an original architectural feature that had disappeared decades ago—an eight-inch, gold-leafed copper finial that once crowned the school’s iconic cupola. Using original 1936 blueprints and handcrafted techniques, the finial has now been faithfully recreated and returned to its rightful place.

This project is more than a repair—it’s a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and community pride, reflecting the ongoing commitment of Bristol Tennessee City Schools to honor the past while investing in the future.

📖 Read the full story on our website to learn how this remarkable restoration came together and why it matters to generations of Vikings and our community. https://www.btcs.org/article/2626044
about 2 months ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Aerial view looking down on Tennessee High School’s white cupola with a green copper dome topped by a gold finial, with Viking Hall, surrounding school buildings, and the Bristol community visible below.
Gold-leafed copper finial ball mounted on a square copper base, displayed indoors on a wooden surface, with a Bristol Tennessee City Schools logo sign visible on the wall in the background.
Aerial view of Tennessee High School’s white cupola and green copper dome, newly topped with a gold finial, overlooking Viking Hall, campus rooftops, and the surrounding Bristol neighborhood with rolling hills in the background.
Aerial view of Tennessee High School’s green, domed cupola topped with a gold finial, rising above Viking Hall and the surrounding campus, with Bristol’s neighborhoods and rolling hills visible in the distance under a bright, cloud-filled sky.
Hand-drawn exploded sketch of a cupola finial assembly, showing a spherical finial ball mounted on a vertical rod above layered octagonal plates. Labeled components include the finial ball, metal flashing to cover the pipe, flashing covering the plate, a mounting plate secured with eight screws into the cap, and the existing cap below. Notes indicate adding a metal layer to the top and bottom if the existing cap is too light.
Tennessee High School homeroom classes wrapped up the semester with a festive gingerbread house competition during the final week of school. The creativity, detail, and humor in these designs made for a fun and memorable way to head into the holiday break. 🍬🏠🎄✨
2 months ago, Bristol Tennessee City Schools
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.
A collection of student-created gingerbread displays set on tables, featuring creatively decorated houses and scenes made from graham crackers, icing, candy, and small props. Designs include colorful candy roofs, snowy icing paths, miniature trees, a drive-in movie scene, a dinosaur-themed display, and humorous handwritten labels. The exhibits showcase imagination, craftsmanship, and festive holiday spirit.