Knox County Leaders Provide Update On 70% by 2024 Goal and Announce ADVANCE865
Press Release: Knox County Leaders Provide Update On 70% by 2024 Goal and Announce ADVANCE865
Although the state will not officially announce 2024 college-going rates until summer 2025, Knox County business and community leaders in partnership with tnAchieves and Knox County Schools are thrilled to announce that 70% of 2024 Knox County graduates enrolled at a community, technical or four-year institution directly following high school.
This achievement satisfies the “70% by 2024” goal set by community leaders in January 2023. Now, the 70% by 2024 community will shift its name to ADVANCE865 in an effort to continue to increase success pathways for Knox County graduates. With the metrics of Enroll, Enlist or Employ, ADVANCE865 creates an even bigger tent around how our community defines student success after high school. ADVANCE865 is excited to announce a new goal of 80% by 2028!
"The success of 70% by 2024 demonstrates what’s possible when a community comes together to prioritize opportunities for its students. Achieving the new goal of 80% by 2028 will require the collective effort of community partners, employers, and leaders across Knox County. I challenge everyone to join us in supporting ADVANCE865 and investing in the future of our graduates."
— Randy Boyd, UT System President and tnAchieves Board Chair
Aligning with Knox County Schools’ 865 Academy work, ADVANCE865 leverages data to track progress. By tracking students’ post-secondary outcomes, the ADVANCE865 Scorecard (seen below) will be updated annually to ensure accountability.
"Through 865 Academies, KCS is committed to equipping every student with the skills and experiences needed to graduate ready for the future—whether that means enrollment in a post-secondary institution, employment in a high-wage, high-demand profession or enlistment in service to our country. We are excited to be a part of ADVANCE865 and look forward to working with the community to reach the ambitious goal of 80% by 2028!”
— Dr. Jon Rysewyk, Superintendent of Knox County Schools
The collective support of an entire county and community reinforces the belief that every high school senior deserves the opportunity to pursue a high-quality pathway after high school. Setting this new goal ensures Knox County is equipped to meet future workforce demands with a prepared talent pipeline and promotes economic prosperity for the county and its citizens.
“At The University of Tennessee Medical Center, we deeply value this goal and are proud to be involved in this important effort. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous community for generations to come."
— Dr. Keith Gray, President & CEO of The University of Tennessee Medical Center
Please click here for more information about ADVANCE865 and here to support ADVANCE865 and the 80% by 2028 goal.
tnAchieves is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Any interview requests outside of the event or questions can be directed to Rebecca Franklin at Rebecca@tnAchieves.org or (865) 748-7767.
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