A publication of Bristol Tennessee City Schools                         Summer 2026

The Tennessee High School Mighty Viking Band proudly represented Bristol Tennessee City Schools and the state of Tennessee at the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C., on May 25. The Mighty Viking Band was the only band from Tennessee selected to participate in the nationally televised event, which honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country.

Approximately 100 student musicians and flag corps members traveled to the nation's capital for the parade, which was part of the nationwide America250 celebration leading up to the 250th anniversary of the United States. The band was also one of only two groups invited to stop and perform along the parade route, making the experience an especially meaningful honor.

The opportunity showcased the talent, dedication, and hard work of Tennessee High's student musicians while allowing them to take part in a national tribute to America's fallen heroes.

Bristol Tennessee City Schools and Bristol Tennessee Parks & Recreation partnered once again this spring to host the 2026 Power of Play Youth Sports Day, sponsored by Ballad Health. Held in early May at Tennessee Middle School, the event was a tremendous success, welcoming BTCS students and families for an evening focused on physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and family fun.

Students in pre-K through fifth grade participated in a variety of track and field events, including running races, standing broad jump, wiffle ball throw, and relays. Families also enjoyed a family fun walk, vendor village, food samples, free books from the BTCS Book Bus, opportunities to meet Tennessee High School athletes, and door prize giveaways.

The event highlighted the importance of active play while providing families with opportunities to connect with community organizations and resources. Thank you to our partners, sponsors, volunteers, vendors, and families who helped make this year's Power of Play Youth Sports Day such a memorable and successful event.

Congratulations to Tennessee High School special education teacher Brad Stubbs on being named the Rotary Club of Bristol VA/TN's 2026 Teacher of the Year for Bristol Tennessee City Schools.

Stubbs was recognized during the Rotary Club's 39th Annual Teacher of the Year Banquet, which honors outstanding educators from Bristol, Tennessee, and Bristol, Virginia. The annual event celebrates excellence in teaching and the positive impact educators have on students, schools, and the community.

BTCS is proud of Mr. Stubbs and grateful for the dedication, compassion, and expertise he brings to Tennessee High School and the students he serves each day.

Learn more about Mr. Stubbs at https://www.btcs.org/article/2829087.

In May, Bristol Tennessee City Schools recognized employees for their dedication and service during the annual Employee Recognition Dinner. The event celebrated retirees, Teachers of the Year, newly tenured teachers, years-of-service recipients, special award winners, and many others who make a difference in the lives of our students. Watch the video below for highlights from this special evening of recognition and celebration.

The Safe School Helpline is a convenient, confidential way for anyone to anonymously report information about situations that might affect safety at our schools. The Safe School Helpline is free and available 24/7. Examples of threatening situations include but are not limited to the following: bullying, drugs, theft, thoughts of suicide, violence, or weapons.

In addition, trained counselors are available 24 hours per day to talk with persons seeking assistance in coping with suicide thoughts, depression, or feelings of loneliness and loss. Callers can press option '3' when prompted.