KCS Unveils Wall of Honor Recognizing Veterans and Service Members
Knox County Schools on Tuesday unveiled a new Wall of Honor at the Sarah Simpson Professional Development Center – a permanent installation recognizing the courage, leadership, and service of KCS veterans and active-duty personnel.
The unveiling took place as part of the district’s commitment to Honoring Service. Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk and district leaders gathered to celebrate employees who have served or continue to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.
“Like military service, education is a calling,” said Dr. Rysewyk. “Those who have answered both calls bring unique strengths to our district. This display will serve as a lasting reminder of their contributions to our schools and community.”
This year, each veteran and active-duty employee received a commemorative t-shirt, while other staff members were invited to purchase a shirt as part of a fundraiser and to wear it on Veterans Day as a visible symbol of gratitude. Proceeds from the effort helped fund the Wall of Honor project and also supported Operation Hero’s Hill, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs’ initiative to end veteran homelessness.
On Monday, district leaders presented a check for nearly $8,000 to support the construction of 20 fully-equipped tiny homes for veterans.
Hero’s Hill represents a broad community partnership that includes local industry leaders, apprenticeship programs, and students from 865 Academy construction and electrical programs at Carter, Farragut, Fulton, Gibbs, Halls, Karns, South-Doyle, and West High Schools.
“Just last week, the state electrical inspector passed the rough-in inspection for our first two homes being built by KCS students,” said Jenny Holden, Executive Director of Grants and Community Development for Knox County Government, who oversees the Hero’s Hill initiative and spoke on behalf of Mayor Jacobs. “This work is made possible by mentors from the Associated General Contractors of Tennessee and the phenomenal instruction being provided by KCS Career and Technical Education instructors, who are all going above and beyond the call of duty for this project.”
“Hero’s Hill is a testament to what happens when vision meets vocation,” Dr. Rysewyk said. “Every nail and wall represents both a technical skill and lesson in leadership, empathy, and perseverance. The project reflects the core of our 865 Academies mission–preparing students for enrollment, employment, or enlistment.”
During the event, Dr. Rysewyk also introduced Dr. J.D. Faulconer, the district’s first Director of Military Enlistment and a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves. Dr. Faulconer’s role supports students who are interested in pursuing military service after graduation.
The Wall of Honor will be updated annually and open to the public for viewing during the Knox County Museum of Education hours on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. KCS employees can view the wall any time they visit Sarah Simpson for professional development.
Visit Knox County Schools’ website for more information on the 865 Academies.
Visit https://www.knoxcounty.org/operationheroshill/ for more information on Hero’s Hill.
