Mission:

The Mission of Thomas Jefferson Elementary is to facilitate optimal learning for all students and encourage the development of responsible citizens and lifelong learners. 

Beliefs:

We believe that the total child is the focal point of the entire program. We attempt to meet the mental, physical, emotional, and social needs of each child.

We believe that each child should be developing into an independent, self motivated learner.

We believe that students should be encouraged to learn from each other through open communication.

Location: 2216 Westmoreland Avenue / Kingsport, TN 37664

Principal: Brian Partin

Colors: Blue and Silver

Mascot:  Jaguar

School Program Highlights:

·          Current facility opened in 1957 serving grades K-5

·          Implemented the British Infant School concept during the 1960's -70's

·          Implemented school system's first full-day kindergarten program in 1985

·          Initiated a Magnet Program and extended school day in 1986

·          Building renovation with the addition of 15 new classrooms and an increase in enrollment from 325 to 500 students in 1992 -1993

·          Proclaimed by Governor Don Sundquist as the outstanding Parent Involvement Program (TJ Power-Thomas Jefferson Parents Organized with Education Resources) for the 1st Congressional District in 1999

·          Added Spanish Program to school curriculum in 2001

·          Placed a renewed focus on teacher development in the area of literacy instruction in 2002

·          Initiated a student physical fitness program in 2003 with emphasis on proper nutrition and exercise (before and during school Walking Program made available)

·          Teachers recognized as • Teacher of the Year• and • Who's Who in American Education• McGlothin Award Recipient

·          Teachers received grants from Putting Children First and FEPEK

·          Keep Kingsport Beautiful recognition

·          35 years of Regional Accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Extended Learning/Service Opportunities for Students:

·          Kindergarten Buddies

·          Reading Buddies

·          Extended Learning/Service Opportunities for Students (Cont.):

·          TJ Singers

·          Field Day

·          Tutoring Programs

·          YMCA after school program

·          Trash Busters recycling program

·          Visiting and performing for residents in nursing homes

·          DARE Program for 5th Grade

·          Junior Achievement Program

·          2nd Step Conflict Resolution/No Bullying Training

·          Read Across America Day

·          Visiting Authors/Illustrators/Artists

·          Students are actively engaged in collecting money, food, and clothing to assist those less fortunate that are in need

·          Annual Spelling Bee

·          Mental Math Bee

·          Annual Science Fair

·          Cinco de Mayo Celebration

·          Reading Counts Program

·          Speech Therapy and Special Education Services

·          English as Second Language 

·          Technologically enhanced classrooms

·          Full-time teachers in art, music, library, physical education, and Spanish

·          School counseling program provided by full-time guidance counselor