Bristol Tennessee City Schools is excited to announce Anderson Elementary School, Holston View Elementary School, and Tennessee Online Public School (TOPS) have been designated as Reward Schools by the Tennessee Department of Education for the 2023-2024 academic year. 

This prestigious recognition is awarded to schools that exhibit high levels of performance and significant improvement across various indicators, including student achievement and growth. Reward School status is the highest distinction a public school can receive in Tennessee, highlighting exceptional academic progress and commitment to student success. This is the seventh consecutive year TOPS has received the designation and the first time for Anderson Elementary. Of the 1,691 schools in the state, only 377 achieved the honor.

"Reward School status is a reflection of the dedication and teamwork of our students, teachers, administrators, and parents who strive for excellence daily,” said Dr. Annette Tudor, director of schools. “This recognition highlights the commitment to academic growth and success happening in our classrooms and the support of our broader community. We are honored to celebrate their hard work and remain dedicated to ensuring every student has opportunities to succeed. I want to congratulate Anderson, Holston View, and TOPS as it is no small feat to demonstrate the level of achievement this designation requires."

The safety and well-being of our students and staff are priorities we all share. As we approach the holidays, a season of joy for many but a difficult time for others, it’s an important moment to remind our school community of the critical role we all play in maintaining safety and supporting mental health.

If You See Something, Say Something
One of the best ways to help keep our schools safe is by reporting concerns promptly. Through our Safe School Helpline, students, parents, and community members can report safety concerns confidentially at any time. Let’s remain vigilant—together, we can address concerns before they escalate. 

Partnering with Families for Safety
Parents, your partnership is vital. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Monitor backpacks and belongings to ensure no inappropriate or unsafe items are brought to school.

• Be aware of your child’s activities—both online and offline—and engage in open conversations about safety and respect.

• Look for signs of struggle—changes in behavior, withdrawal, or sudden anger may indicate your child is having difficulties.

• Contact school counselors or trusted staff if you notice anything concerning. We’re here to support you and your child.

Supporting Mental Health During the Holidays
The holidays can bring extra stress, and prioritizing mental health is essential. Here are some activities to help families stay connected and healthy:

• Volunteer together: Helping others can lift spirits and create meaningful moments.

• Exercise or take walks as a family: Physical activity is a great stress reliever.

• Practice gratitude: Share things you’re thankful for as a family.

• Limit screen time: Encourage face-to-face conversations and creative activities.

• Create a routine: Structure can provide comfort during a chaotic season.

Trust and Understanding in Safety Matters
We understand that when incidents occur at school, parents want immediate answers. While we aim to communicate promptly, our primary focus must remain on the safety of students and staff and the integrity of any investigation. This means we may not always be able to provide all details as quickly or completely as you may wish. We ask for your trust and understanding in these moments, knowing that every decision we make prioritizes the protection of our school community.

By staying vigilant, fostering open communication, and partnering for safety, we can work together to ensure a secure and supportive environment for all students. Thank you for your continued partnership and never hesitate to reach out to a school administrator, your child’s teacher, or me if you have questions or concerns.

I wish all of Viking Nation a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I look forward to serving alongside each of you in the coming semester.

At Tennessee High School, seniors Zoe Coble and Aubrey Tester have proven themselves to be a dynamic duo, leading with purpose and passion. As co-presidents of the Civinettes, a service club for young women, Zoe and Aubrey have made history as the first known pair to share the role. Their complementary leadership styles and dedication to serving the community are a true testament to the power of teamwork.

The Civinettes’ mission is clear—serving the community comes first. Under Zoe and Aubrey’s leadership, the club has expanded dramatically, doubling in members over the last two years.

“Aubrey is kind of the spokesperson for the group,” Zoe explained. “She’s great at being out front and communicating with people, while I love working on projects, designing shirts and posters, and helping spread the word about what we’re doing. It’s a great balance.”

Though you would never know it based on the confidence they now exude, their journey to leadership began from a very different place. Both describe themselves as shy and introverted when they first entered high school, still searching for where they belonged. 

“I was a quiet kid, just trying to find a place to connect,” Zoe reflected. “Civinettes gave me that. It’s not just about serving the community; it’s about helping other girls feel included and part of something bigger. That is what we have tried to encourage and build during our time in Civinettes.”

Zoe became involved with the Civinettes as a freshman and quickly found a home in the group. By sophomore year, she convinced Aubrey to join, and the two soon realized they had not only found a place to contribute but a calling. 

Their passion for community service is most evident through the Civinettes’ work with the Johnia Berry Toy Drive. Named in memory of Johnia Berry, a 2001 Tennessee High graduate whose life was tragically cut short during a home invasion in 2004, the toy drive raises funds annually to purchase toys for children in need across the region. 

“Johnia’s story has had a huge impact on me,” Aubrey shared. “Her life and legacy remind us why it’s so important to give back. I’m hoping to attend UT Knoxville, where she attended, and I want to continue her legacy of service when I’m there.”

The Civinettes fundraise for the toy drive through their annual Powder Puff Football Game, a fun and spirited event that brings the community together. In addition to the toy drive, the group sponsors the school’s Trunk-or-Treat and participates in the BTCS Reading Buddies program, where members read to elementary students at Reading Parties.

Zoe and Aubrey also share their love of soccer with the community. For two years, they have volunteered to coach a BTCS elementary youth soccer team, an experience they both describe as deeply meaningful.

“Coaching these kids has been incredible,” Zoe said. “It’s not just about teaching soccer—it’s about teaching teamwork and showing them what it means to be part of something. A lot of these kids wouldn’t have had the chance to play in travel or club leagues, and we’re so grateful to give them this opportunity.”

While Zoe and Aubrey’s leadership has been transformative for the Civinettes, they are quick to share credit for the club’s success. They expressed deep gratitude for Ms. Ellan Kitzmiller, one of the Civinettes’ sponsors, who they say has been a guiding force.

“Ms. Kitzmiller keeps us organized and on track but still gives us the freedom to develop our leadership skills,” Aubrey explained. “She’s been a huge part of this journey for us.”

"They are wonderful!" Ms. Kitzmiller said. "Also, our other two faculty sponsors, Julie Bittinger and Jessica Robinson, do so many things. It takes a lot to organize everything we do in our club, and Aubrey's and Zoe's leadership has been invaluable."

Aubrey and Zoe were also quick to give a huge shout-out to Mr. Derek Shipley, Tennessee High’s graphic design teacher, for his unwavering support.

“We couldn’t do what we do without Mr. Shipley,” Zoe said. “He helps us create promotional materials for our events, and he does so much for the whole school. Our school is incredibly lucky to have him.”

Finally, Zoe and Aubrey acknowledged Madison Moore, a former Civinette who graduated last year, for inspiring and mentoring them.

“Madison really helped us and showed us how to lead,” Zoe said. “She encouraged us, made us feel included, and taught us what it means to lift others up. We owe so much to her.”

As they prepare to graduate, Zoe and Aubrey leave behind quite a legacy—one that will continue to inspire Civinettes for years to come. Their partnership as co-presidents has shown what’s possible when passion, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose collide.

The holiday season is a time of joy and generosity, and for Kay Ward, coordinator of family and community engagement and the Bristol Tennessee City Schools (BTCS) Family Resource Center (FRC), it’s also a time of action. Months of preparation culminate in heartfelt efforts to bring hope and happiness to BTCS families in need, ensuring that the magic of the holidays reaches every corner of the community.

Thanksgiving Support
The FRC collaborated with BTCS staff, students, and community partners to provide Thanksgiving assistance to 147 families. Each family received a Food City gift certificate, distributed with the support of the following:

• THS Student Council: 90 families served

• Holston View PTA: 25 families served

• Tennessee Middle School Community: 32 families served

Christmas Assistance
The holiday cheer extended through the community Santa Pal program and the FRC's Tennessee High holiday program, which brightened the season for 122 students from 50 families. This effort was made possible by 22 community and private sponsors, including the Bristol Tennessee Firefighters Association Local 3227, which generously sponsored 29 Santa Pal participants and hosted a festive distribution party with Santa himself. Additionally, the Johnia Berry Toy Drive will serve an estimated 150 students not enrolled in other holiday assistance programs, ensuring even more children experience the joy of giving and receiving. The Tennessee High School Civinettes played a pivotal role in supporting the toy drive.

“We are so fortunate to live in a community that consistently steps up to help others," Ms. Ward said. "Everyone’s generosity and hard work have made a difference in the lives of so many children and families. The holidays can be challenging for those who are struggling, but because of this incredible community, we’ve been able to ease those burdens and bring joy to so many.

"My hope is that the children and families we’ve been able to serve feel not only the happiness of receiving gifts or a meal but also the warmth of knowing their community cares deeply for them. I truly believe these acts of kindness brighten their lives in ways that extend far beyond the holidays. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making this season special for our families. Together, we are helping to create a brighter future for every child we serve.”

These efforts embody the FRC’s mission: to proactively engage with the community to empower students and families, bridging gaps to ensure they grow together through connected systems of support. By focusing on meeting basic needs, promoting school attendance, and fostering early literacy, the FRC continues to create a foundation for student success.