South Knoxville Elementary Achieves Remarkable Success in Third-Grade Reading Proficiency
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — South Knoxville Elementary School has distinguished itself in educational achievement, with 80% of its third graders meeting or exceeding the English Language Arts portion of the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP). This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the school’s status as a Title I institution, which is designated to support students from low-income families through federal funding aimed at leveling the educational playing field.
Superintendent Jon Rysewyk emphasized the significance of South Knoxville Elementary’s performance. He noted that the school ranks among the highest-performing Title I schools in Knox County regarding TCAP reading scores. Covering a range of learning needs and backgrounds, the school serves as a prime example of effective educational practices in action. “One of our priorities is to have great educators in every building,” Rysewyk stated, reinforcing the belief that both competent teachers and strong leadership are crucial for student success.
Dr. Tanna Nicely, the principal of South Knoxville Elementary, has been pivotal in achieving these impressive results. Rysewyk lauded her leadership and commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to read at a high level. “Dr. Nicely has exemplified the core principles that enable all her students to excel,” he noted.
For Nicely, the emphasis on reading is foundational, as it underpins the broader educational experience. “Reading is the foundation for most things, and I want all my students to have the equal opportunity to learn,” she remarked. A first-generation college graduate herself, Nicely expressed her desire to inspire her students, illustrating that academic achievement is within reach for them, too. “Every child deserves the right to learn how to read and to read fluently,” she emphasized, promoting a culture of high expectations and persistent effort.
The success of South Knoxville Elementary reflects a broader trend within Knox County Schools, which, under new academic standards, has seen improvements in literacy rates across the district. However, Nicely believes that excellence in reading is not simply a goal but a reachable reality. “Excellence isn’t by accident. It takes a lot of practice. It’s something that is achievable,” she assured, instilling a mindset of determination and success in her students.
To recognize their achievements, Nicely was presented with a ,000 check by David Coffey, a local businessman and advocate for public education. Coffey commended the school and its leader, describing them as a “North Star” in educational excellence. “There’s a wee bit of magic in this room that gets better results in reading than anyone else in all of East Tennessee and mostly the state,” he noted, highlighting the transformative impact of effective leadership and dedicated educators.
This remarkable accomplishment at South Knoxville Elementary serves as a significant case study for other schools, particularly Title I institutions, demonstrating that strategic initiatives, committed leadership, and relentless pursuit of educational equity can yield exceptional results for students in diverse circumstances.
