The Education Blueprint With Dr. Jon Rysewyk podcast

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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Class Dismissed: Season 1 Reflections and Responses 38:35

vor 13 weeks38:35

38:35

In this episode of The Education Blueprint , Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with public school parent and podcast co-host Prentice Elliott to wrap up Season 1 with a reflection on the journey so far and to answer a few listener-submitted questions. They’ll look back on the season’s highlights, share what they’ve learned, and provide insights into what’s in store for Season 2. Whether you’re a long-time listener or just tuning in, this episode is packed with reflections, answers, and a sneak peek at what’s ahead. Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022. Prentice Elliott joined the Knox County Schools communications team in 2015. Before joining the school district, he spent 13 years in local news, primarily covering sports in Augusta, Georgia, and Knoxville, Tennessee. He has a Bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from the University of South Carolina. Links & Resources: Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org . Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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Service After School: Exploring Military Pathways with Four Star General and Hamblen County Superintendent Arnie Bunch 46:42

vor 15 weeks46:42

46:42

Choosing to serve is a big decision—and with the right guidance, it can open doors to education, purpose, and a host of long-term opportunities. In this episode of The Education Blueprint , Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with General Arnie Bunch, a Four-Star General and current Hamblen County Director of Schools, to talk about what it really means to enlist. With 38 years in the U.S. Air Force, General Bunch shares firsthand insight into military careers, the values that shape service members, and the many ways students can prepare for a future in uniform. They’ll discuss how schools can support students interested in military pathways—from early exposure to career-connected learning to building the character, confidence, and skills required for service If you're a student considering enlistment—or a family member or educator wanting to support that path—this episode is full of insight, clarity, and encouragement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Military Enlistment Discussion 10:30 Understanding Enlistment and Its Misconceptions 20:14 The Benefits of Military Service for Young Adults 23:38 Exploring Military Service as an Educational Pathway 24:07 Core Values and Their Relevance in Education 25:05 Benefits of Military Service for Students 26:15 Character Development Through Military Experience 27:40 The Impact of Military Exposure on Youth 29:06 JROTC: A Gateway to Opportunities 30:25 Transformative Experiences in JROTC 32:01 Leadership Skills from JROTC 33:26 Attracting Veterans to Education 35:19 Shifting Perspectives on Post-Graduation Success 36:03 Understanding Military Options for Students 39:26 Navigating the Military Enlistment Process 43:51 Celebrating Service: Honoring Student Achievements 44:34 Advice for Students Considering Military Service Takeaways The military can be a viable option for all students. Enlistment provides educational benefits and career opportunities. Many misconceptions exist about military service. Education is crucial for success in any career path. Exposure to military options broadens students' perspectives. Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022. Gen. Arnold W. “Arnie” Bunch, Jr. ,brings a wealth of leadership experience to his role as Superintendent of Hamblen County Schools, a position he has held since 2022. A native of Hamblen County, Gen. Bunch previously served a distinguished 38-year career in the United States Air Force, retiring as a four-star general. In his final military assignment, he commanded the Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, overseeing nearly 89,000 personnel and managing a $60 billion annual budget. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy with a degree in civil engineering; completed Squadron Officer School at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama; earned a Master’s in mechanical engineering from California State University–Fresno; attended Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; and holds a Master of Science in national security strategy from the National War College in Washington, D.C. Links & Resources: Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org . Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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Growing Pains: How Growth Shapes Schools and Communities 49:56

vor 17 weeks49:56

49:56

In this episode of The Education Blueprint , Dr. Jon Rysewyk, Superintendent of Knox County Schools, teams up with Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs to tackle one of the hottest topics in the region—growth. They’ll explore the plans shaping the county’s future and dive into the challenges of managing rapid projected growth, including how it impacts everything from funding and facilities to staffing and student schedules. Tune in for a candid conversation on how Knox County is preparing for a thriving tomorrow—and why education is at the heart of it all. Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022. Glenn Jacobs, elected Mayor of Knox County in 2018 and re-elected to a second term in 2022, brings a unique blend of leadership and experience to his role. Born in Spain and raised near St. Louis, Missouri, Jacobs holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Northeast Missouri State University. Before entering public service, Jacobs had a highly successful 20-year career as WWE Superstar "Kane." He was also a small business owner. By focusing on jobs, education, and recreation, Mayor Jacobs has worked diligently to tell the rest of the world what he already knows: that Knox County is the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Follow Glenn Jacobs on X @GlennJacobsTN. Key Takeaways: Preparing students for jobs that don’t exist yet requires forward-thinking education, strategic business partnerships, and career exposure. A healthy economy is essential for bringing graduates back home to live and work. Links & Resources: Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Learn more about the Knox County at KnoxCounty.org Follow the Knox County Government on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Learn more about AdvanceKnox…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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College 101: Postsecondary Enrollment with Krissy DeAlejandro 1:04:05

vor 19 weeks1:04:05

1:04:05

In this episode of The Education Blueprint , Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Krissy DeAlejandro, President and CEO of tnAchieves, to talk about what it really takes to get students to and through college. They’ll break down how tnAchieves removes barriers to postsecondary education and how Knox County Schools is shifting the focus from just earning a diploma to preparing students for real success after graduation. From advanced academics to the 865 Academies, college fairs, and campus visits, they’ll explore the key experiences that help students turn their college goals into reality. 04:00 - How Krissy DeAlejandro became the first in her family to go to college 06:45 - What does tnAchieves do? 10:20 - What is postsecondary enrollment? 14:07 - The importance of mentors in tn Achieves 18:45 - What is the FAFSA? 22:57 - How to apply for postsecdonary enrollment 26:29 - What is Knox Access? 31:53 - How does KCS prepare students for success in life after high school? 41:44 - The role of 865 Academies and guaranteed experiences 48:36 - How the postsecondary path has changed recently 55:24 - Advice for parents and students Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022. Krissy DeAlejandro is the President and CEO of tnAchieves, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to helping Tennessee high school students transition to higher education. Originally launched as knoxAchieves in 2008, Krissy played a pivotal role in shaping the program, which began as an idea sketched on a whiteboard during her time as Deputy Chief of Staff for Knox County Mayor Mike Ragsdale. A first-generation college graduate, Krissy holds a bachelor’s degree from The University of the South (Sewanee) and a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She has also taught as an adjunct professor at both UTK and Pellissippi State Community College. In addition to leading tnAchieves, Krissy serves on the boards of Junior Achievement of East Tennessee and the Boy Scouts – Great Smoky Mountain Council, on the advisory councils of SCORE and College Promise, and is the executive director of The Boyd Foundation. Key Takeaways: The path to success after high school graduation has fundamentally changed in recent years Postsecondary education can be affordable and available for everyone Links & Resources: Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org . Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Learn more about tnAchieves at tnachieves.org . Follow the Knox County Government on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Learn more about Federal Student Aid here and find the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) here . Learn more about UT Promise here .…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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Literacy: The Great Equalizer with Dr. Sharon Roberts 47:53

vor 22 weeks47:53

47:53

Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give our kids–it is a foundational skill that can shape their future success. In this episode of The Education Blueprint , Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Dr. Sharon Roberts, senior advisor for SCORE (State Collaborative on Reforming Education), to dive into the importance of early literacy. They’ll discuss why third grade is such a pivotal moment in a child’s academic journey, how reading instruction has evolved, and the innovative ways Knox County Schools is supporting young readers. Plus, they’ll share simple, effective tips for parents to help their children develop strong reading skills from birth through elementary school. 01:47 - KCS kindergarten reading lesson 02:39 - How Sharon Roberts began her journey into education 10:05 - The difference between reading and literacy 11:49 - What are sight words and phonics? 16:37 - The recent change in reading instruction 19:40 - The importance of 3rd grade reading proficiency 23:04 - How has KCS improved english-language arts scores? 31:57 - The impact of legislation on 3rd grade reading 37:26 - How parents can support their child’s literacy Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022. Dr. Sharon Roberts, a Knoxville native, brings over four decades of experience in education and leadership. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Dr. Roberts earned a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, a Master’s in Educational Administration and Supervision, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. Throughout her 21 years with Knox County Schools, she served as a SPED and 6th grade teacher, instructional coach, principal, and assistant superintendent, before becoming the Superintendent of Lebanon Special School District. Dr. Roberts spent 12 years as the Chief K-12 Impact Officer at SCORE (State Collaborative on Reforming Education) and now serves as a Senior Advisor. She is also the President of Leadership Innovations, Inc., where she provides leadership coaching and organizational consulting. Key Takeaways: The importance of literacy The evolving approach to literacy in the classroom Links & Resources: Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org . Knox County Schools strategies for foundational literacy Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Learn more about State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) at tnscore.org SCORE casts a vision for student success in 2025 State of Education in Tennessee Follow SCORE on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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Education and the Mainstream Media with Hallerin Hilton Hill 48:10

vor 25 weeks48:10

48:10

The stories we hear shape what we believe. In this episode of The Education Blueprint , Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with special guest Hallerin Hilton Hill to unpack the powerful influence of mainstream media on education. From the headlines that capture attention to the narratives that shape public opinion, they explore how media coverage impacts schools, educators, and students. Tune in for an insightful conversation on navigating the media landscape, telling the full story of education, and ensuring that facts drive the public conversation. 00:25 - Evolution of school communication 03:32 - How Hallerin's mom inspired him 06:16 - What is the creative process like? 08:09 - Writing a song for Whitney Houston 9:48 - How Hallerin got his start in Knoxville media 20:21 - How the KCS communication philosophy has shifted 31:30 - How KCS and the media balance competing priorities 34:30 - How does the district decide what information can be shared 37:37 - How to become a more efficient communicator 41:43 - Making yourself "available" and open to new information Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022. Hallerin Hilton Hill is a veteran broadcaster, author, and motivational speaker known for his insightful commentary and engaging conversations. As the host of The Hallerin Hilton Hill Show on NewsTalk 98.7 and a respected voice in media, he has spent decades exploring the intersection of leadership, education, and community impact. Follow Hallerin Hilton Hill on X @Hallerin . Key Takeaways: Communication is not just talking but listening, as well. The media landscape has changed just as the way we communicate has. Links & Resources: Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Read more about KCS Communication here. Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org . Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Hallerin’s TV show Anything is Possible on WBIR-TV Channel 10 is home to great stories about people whose lives prove anything IS possible. Find it on YouTube . Listen live to HHH weekday afternoons from 3-7 p.m. EST on Newstalk 98.7 WOKI.…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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The Education-Economy Link with Mike Odom 58:03

vor 27 weeks58:03

58:03

KCS Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk and Knoxville Chamber President and CEO Mike Odom explore why the future of our economy hinges on what—and how—we teach the next generation. What students learn today will shape the economy of tomorrow.In this episode of The Education Blueprint , Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk and Knoxville Chamber President and CEO Mike Odom explore the critical link between education and workforce development. They'll discuss the role businesses play in shaping career pathways, how schools can best prepare students for the jobs of the future, and how parents can help guide their children in making informed college and career decisions. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the collaborative efforts being made to equip KCS students with the skills and experiences they need to thrive in an evolving economy after graduation. 00:45 - What KCS kids want to be when they grow up 03:39 - How Mike Odom became President and CEO of the Knoxville Chamber 06:41 - What does the Knoxville Chamber do? 08:28 - The 2030 Protocol 10:36 - Computing-focused economy 12:15 - Shifting from the Information Age to the Imagination Age 20:25 - Preparing the next generation for jobs that don’t yet exist 26:07 - The 865 Academies 35:10 - Engaging business partners 39:00 - The value of career-focused education 43:47 - Advice for parents 46:27 - An ask of state legislators 48:24 - It’s ok to not “get” quantum computing 50:50 - Small learning communities yielding positive results 54:13 - More advice for parents Key Takeaways: Preparing students for jobs that don’t exist yet requires forward-thinking education, strategic business partnerships, and career exposure. A healthy economy is essential for bringing graduates back home to live and work. Links & Resources: Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org Learn more about the 865 Academies Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Learn more about the Knoxville Chamber at KnoxvilleChamber.com Follow the Knoxville Chamber on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Learn more about The 2030 Protocol Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022. Mike Odom brings extensive experience in economic development and business advocacy to his role as President and CEO of the Knoxville Chamber. A Louisiana native, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University before beginning his career in marketing. After a decade in the casino industry, he transitioned to economic development, serving in leadership roles at the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, and Round Rock Chamber in Texas. Throughout his career, he has focused on regional business growth, workforce development, and education as key drivers of economic success. Odom joined the Knoxville Chamber in 2019. Follow Mike Odom on X @M_Odom.…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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Inside Snow Day Decisions with Todd Howell 41:58

vor 29 weeks41:58

41:58

Curious about what really goes into cancelling school for snow?In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk teams up with WBIR Chief Meteorologist Todd Howell to pull back the curtain on the snow day decision-making process—from the first signs of snow to the final call.Whether you're hoping for a snow day or just fascinated by the science behind the forecast, discover how Knox County Schools balances weather data, student safety, and logistics to make the best decision for families. Plus, get a behind-the-green-screen look at meteorology as Todd reveals what it truly takes to predict the weather—and why it’s not as simple as it seems. 04:45 - How Todd Howell became a meteorologist 10:00 - What makes East Tennessee weather forecasting unique 13:24 - Todd’s formula for snow in Knox County 15:40 - What happens in the WBIR news studio leading up to weather events 18:45 - The magic of salt and brine 23:57 - How KCS accumulates snow days 26:07 - How KCS snow day decisions are made 33:03 - How Sequoia Elementary 5th Grader Lucia helps make it snow <- prentice adding in the other student's clip as timestamp as well 33:39 - Is it better to be first or right? 36:50 - Winter weather Old Wives’ Tales Key Takeaways: How local topography affects East Tennessee weather patterns Summary of the decision-making process for school closures Links & Resources: Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org -For more information on Knox County Schools' weather policy Follow Knox County Schools on all platforms: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube Questions or show ideas? Email TheEducationBlueprint@knoxschools.org . Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.Todd Howell is a seasoned meteorologist with over three decades of experience delivering accurate and engaging weather forecasts. Growing up in Gaffney, South Carolina, Todd’s passion for weather began in elementary school, eventually leading him to pursue a Master's degree in Geoscience from Mississippi State University’s renowned Broadcast Meteorology program. Since joining WBIR-TV in 1993, Todd has become a trusted voice in East Tennessee, serving as Chief Meteorologist since 1996. A member of the National Weather Association, Todd is dedicated to helping viewers navigate the unpredictable world of weather. Follow Todd Howell on Instagram @toddhowell10 and @10weather on X.…

The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk

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Introducing The Education Blueprint with Dr. Jon Rysewyk 1:42

vor 30 weeks1:42

1:42

Join Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk and producer/co-host Prentice Elliott as they work to frame excellence in public education with a wide range of guests.

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Antoni Porowski and the Right Time to Leave a Party 46:55