KnoxTNToday is dedicated to impartial coverage of Knox County politics and campaigns for government offices. Our commitment is to present all candidates equitably and to ensure transparency in our reporting. By fact-checking statements and engaging with the community, we aim to empower voters to make informed decisions.
We covered the Sheriff’s, Mayor’s, Trustee’s, County Clerk’s and School Board District 1,4,7 races. Today, we cover the candidates for Knox County School Board in districts 6 and 9 who are on the ballot in the Knox County Primary Election to be held May 5, 2026: Cadence Collins, Kevin Crateau, Lee Ann Eaves, Thierry Sommer for District 6, and Brandy Jenkins, Kristi Kristy, and William Schofield for District 9. We also have the responses from Katherine Bike that were missing last week from the candidates on the ballot for District 4.
KnoxTNToday reached out to each candidate and received responses to five questions from all but one candidate. We are providing the responses that reflect those questions in alphabetical order by district.
Why are you running for the school board, and what are your top three priorities?
DISTRICT 6
Cadence Collins: I am running for School Board in District 6 because I’m a mom who cares. I care about our kids. I care about our teachers. I care about our public schools. I care about you. My top three priorities are to keep public funds in public schools by saying NO to the voucher expansion. With proper funding and budgeting, we can support our educators by promoting a better work environment, ensuring a good work/life balance, and providing school supplies. Finally, we can and should prioritize our children’s well-being by providing more mental health services, focusing on developmentally appropriate curriculum, and disincentivizing overly stressful assessments. We cannot expect our students to thrive if they do not feel safe physically, mentally, or emotionally in our schools. To put it more simply: Priority 1) Protect Public School Funding. Priority 2) Support our Educators. 3) Promote overall wellness for our kids so they feel safe to learn, grow, and thrive.
Kevin Crateau: I am running because I have been married to the best teacher, dean, now principal for the last 24 years and have heard every day about what’s working in Knox county schools, what’s not and how to fix things. I am also running because I have been involved in helping schools in my area from the day my oldest entered Hardin Valley Elementary, and throughout my journey I have realized that I could do way more to help, and the time is right RIGHT NOW! My experience includes:
- Co-Leader of the successful Hardin Valley Supports a Middle School community organization, started in 2013
- President of the Hardin Valley Academy Foundation since 2018
- Proud Member of the Karns Fire Department Board of Directors for the last 4 years
- Community Leader for Hardin Fields neighborhood cleanup and family activities
My top three priorities are: Creating more middle school opportunities to engage kids in CTE (career and technical education) that will help determine their path going forward through graduation. Fixing the regional curriculum facilitator issue when 17 great educators were cut last summer due to delayed federal funds that were eventually received a month later .Addressing the poverty level pay for our teacher assistant in the special ed programs that put in a full 5 day week helping with the students with the most needs,
Lee Ann Eaves: I am running as a teacher; to support Pre-K thru 12th grade educators with the plan times, work load and clear expectations. Running as a parent/grandparent; my 2 children/10 grandchildren have gone through/are attending public schools. I must support them to develop into lifelong learners so that they will obtain careers based on the education they received, whether that be college, military, or trade school. Running as a voter; MY VOICE, MY CHOICE towards education as a whole and what is the best fit for teachers, students, and parents in this community of District 6.
Thiery Sommer: No response
DISTRICT 9:
Brandy Jenkins: I’m running because I’m a lifelong Knox County resident, mom of two daughters in South Knox County Schools, and I believe our schools work best when decisions are focused on students and educators, not political agendas or national politics. As a parent, volunteer, and longtime member of the South Knox community, I’ve seen firsthand how important strong public schools are for families across District 9. My top priority is supporting and retaining great teachers. We cannot have strong schools without strong educators, and that means making sure teachers have the support, resources, and working conditions they need to stay in the profession. I also want to strengthen early literacy and student support so children build a strong foundation for learning from the start. Too often students don’t receive extra help until they’ve already struggled with high-stakes testing, and we should be focusing on giving them the tools to succeed beginning in the early grades. Finally, I believe we must continue investing in our public schools so they have the resources needed to support both teachers and students. Improving class sizes, expanding early literacy support, and strengthening our schools all require a commitment to funding public education.
Kristi Kristy: I am running for re-election because I love our South Knoxville community and schools. My own family has been blessed by the strong foundation our schools provide, and I want all families to have the same wonderful experience. I will always be a strong advocate for our families, community, and schools. Serving in this role is an honor and I am committed to building on the progress we have made. I was blessed to serve as chair of the committee that built the district’s new five-year strategic plan. What the district needs now is steady and consistent leadership that understands the mission and vision ahead of us. I will work to ensure South Knoxville is represented consistently and effectively for the next four years. That is what our community and every child deserves. Safety and security are always top priorities, and security is never a one-time discussion; it requires constant evaluations, strategic upgrades, and an unwavering commitment to student and staff safety. I will continue to advocate for competitive pay for our highly trained, armed officers, and I value the strong relationships I have with both Chief Noelle and Sheriff Spangler. College and Career Readiness-I have always been passionate about Career and Technical Education and have been a strong advocate for expanding opportunities for high school students since my first day on the board. Through our 865 Academies and partnerships with over two thousand industry, military, and post-secondary institutions, students are gaining real-world experience and exposure to career pathways. Our Academies also emphasize employability skills and resume building in helping prepare students for the future. There are advantages to CTE expansion and career exploration at the middle school level as well, and I would like to see the district expand programming more to middle grades in the coming years. Early exposure helps students discover interests, build confidence, and make more informed decisions about future pathways. Highly Qualified Educators in Every Classroom- When I first joined the school board, our district faced significant challenges in having schools fully staffed before the start of the school year. By making a historical investment (funded by strategic cuts throughout the district) in staff pay two years ago, we are seeing significant improvement in this area. I will continue to advocate for competitive pay for our teachers to ensure we are not losing our best educators to neighboring districts with higher salaries.
William Schofield: My opponent is a two-term incumbent. As a strong supporter of term limits, I think it is time for representation. I also believe there is strong support in the community for change in this seat. I’m running for the Knox County Board of Education in District 9 because my opponent is a two-term incumbent and, as a strong supporter of fresh leadership and accountability, I believe it’s time for new representation. After 31 years as a Knox County resident, husband for 30 years, father of four sons (three KCS graduates and one still in public school), and an active member of Mount Olive Baptist Church, I’ve seen firsthand what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to putting students and families first. There is strong support across Knox County for real change in this seat so we can refocus Knox County Schools on core academics, parental rights, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
My top three priorities are: Promote student learning and attendance by returning to proven fundamentals—rigorous instruction, high expectations, and a distraction-free environment—so every child can thrive and chronic absenteeism drops. Defend traditional values and parental rights by keeping explicit or age-inappropriate materials out of classrooms and libraries, supporting parental choice and opt-in programs like Bible Release Time, and ensuring parents—not bureaucrats—have the final say in their children’s education. Promote fiscal responsibility by demanding strict oversight of every tax dollar, prioritizing core education over divisive agendas or unnecessary programs, and making sure resources serve the children of American citizens first.
How do you plan to engage with parents and the community to gather their input?
DISTRICT 6
Cadence Collins: I plan to have an open-door policy. Even before stepping into office, I have encouraged parents, teachers, and community members to reach out to me with their concerns so that I can help however I can. I believe you don’t have to wait to take action, advocate, and collaborate to find solutions to problems. I encourage anyone with questions or concerns to email me directly at cadenceforschoolboard@gmail.com I also prioritize being active in the community. I attend community meetings in Karns and Hardin Valley every month, attend school fundraisers and events, and volunteer at school and community events. Some of my favorite events have been competing in the 4th Annual Chili Bowl benefiting the Karns Marching Band, setting up chairs for a first-grade holiday recital at Ball Camp Elementary, and attending Hardin Valley Middle’s production of Shrek Jr: The Musical at Hardin Valley Academy. I believe it is crucial to be present in the community before hoping to represent the community.
Kevin Crateau: I believe we need to cut through the clutter of all the parent square constant notices and info sent to the parents and give a quarterly online forum for the school board and the Superintendent to share the latest and inform those parents who may not be living it every day.
Lee Ann Eaves: Engaging with parents will be through various media, such as visiting PTO meetings and holding question and answer sessions. It is my goal that District 6 parents know their school of choice is focused on each student’s success.
Thiery Sommer: No response
DISTRICT 9:
Brandy Jenkins: Listening to parents and educators is essential to making good decisions on the school board. I plan to stay actively engaged by continuing to attend school events, meeting with parents and teachers regularly, and creating opportunities for open community conversations. I also believe communication should be transparent, proactive, and accessible, so families feel comfortable sharing their concerns or ideas. Parents and educators are closest to what students experience every day, and their input should ultimately guide the decisions we make.
Kristi Kristy: During my time on board, I have consistently engaged with families, teachers, staff, and administrators through email, late-night phone calls, volunteering, and attending community events. My commitment to meaningful engagement remains unchanged. I take my responsibility as a representative seriously and will always make myself available to families or students in need. I am always happy to meet with constituents or discuss concerns via phone or email.
William Schofield: I will engage parents and the community the same way I’ve lived in Knox County for over three decades—by showing up and listening. That means active, face-to-face campaigning at neighborhood events and doorsteps; truly hearing every voice, not just the loudest ones, at board meetings; and remaining accessible year-round through open office hours, community forums, and direct communication. East Tennessee families know their children best, and I will make sure their input drives decisions, not top-down mandates.
How do you plan to address mental health issues among students?
DISTRICT 6
Cadence Collins: I plan to address mental health issues among students by advocating for more counselors and more access to mental health services. We cannot expect our kids’ mental health to improve when we do not prioritize access to mental health services and mental health professionals.
Kevin Crateau: I have been vocal on my focus on special ed – Evaluation, planning, treatment, and the gross underpayment for the teacher assistants that do a saints work in helping with our special ed students
Lee Ann Eaves I am very concerned about our students’ mental health and feel it is important to have guidance counselors in early elementary to teach classes on positive self-reflection and appropriate behaviors. For middle and high school to include mental health education in the curriculum, by inviting mental health professionals to speak in small groups. Have students share personal experiences to help other students cope through situations. Establish mental health awareness weeks and workshops that students can sign up for, example “Say No To Drugs”
Thiery Sommer: No response
DISTRICT 9:
Brandy Jenkins: Student mental health is a growing concern, and our schools need the resources to support students, both academically and emotionally. That means continuing to invest in qualified guidance counselors, mental health professionals, and programs that help students manage stress and build resilience. Equally important is making sure students feel safe and supported at school. When students feel connected and supported, they’re better able to focus on learning and succeed in the classroom.
Kristi Kristy: Mental health issues are a community-wide concern impacting individuals of all ages. Within our schools, it is important that we are proactive and intentional in our responses. I will continue to support and advocate for expanded staff training in Youth Mental Health First Aid. This program equips educators and staff with tools to recognize early warning signs of mental health concerns, provide initial support, and most importantly help connect students with qualified professionals for further care.
William Schofield: Schools are not mental-health clinics. Clinically trained professionals—not teachers or administrators—should handle diagnosis and treatment. My approach is straightforward: clear policies for early identification, proper reporting, and swift referral to qualified outside providers and families. We must protect student privacy, avoid over-medicalizing normal childhood challenges, and keep the focus where it belongs—on safe classrooms and strong academics—while ensuring no child falls through the cracks.
What metrics will you use to evaluate the success of our schools?
DISTRICT 6
Cadence Collins: When I think of success in schools, I think of a community that is thriving. A successful school has caring and strong leaders, inspired and fulfilled teachers, and students who love to learn and look forward to attending school every day. It is hard to quantify that kind of success, but I hope we can see that success reflected in our graduating rates increasing, our transfer requests lowering while enrollment increases, and teachers staying in the classroom and in their community school for more than 5 years.
Kevin Crateau: I will still focus on the basics of Reading and Math as we know those are super important to the long-term success of our students. I will also be looking at measurements like CTE enrollment, dual enrollment, growth in readiness scores to graduate and so much more.
Lee Ann Eaves: I would use student and parent surveys about their schools climate and culture. Students would be asked a variety of questions from safety to academics to homework. Parents would be asked what their perception of safety, respect when they volunteer and how they feel supported by their chosen school for the child/children/grandchildren.
Thiery Sommer: No response
DISTRICT 9:
Brandy Jenkins: Test scores can provide some useful information, but they shouldn’t be the only way we measure success. We should look at student growth, early literacy rates, graduation rates, attendance, and teacher retention. A strong school system is one where students are learning and making progress, teachers want to stay in the profession, and families feel confident in the education their children are receiving. I also believe standardized testing should be used as a tool for improvement, not a barrier. The goal should be to use that data to understand where students need more support and how we can adjust our approach to help them succeed.
Kristi Kristy: I believe in a holistic approach when evaluating the success of our schools and district. We have strong academic data points to help guide us- including the number of students earning industry certifications, ASVAB and ACT scores, number of student internships, and graduation rates. At the middle and elementary school levels, we also have state testing data and benchmark test results. However, data alone does not tell the full story of defining success. A positive school environment, retaining highly qualified educators, and supporting student well-being are equally critical components. True success is measured not only by performance metrics but also by the strength of the environment in which our students learn and grow.
William Schofield: I believe in clear, transparent, results-based accountability. The key metrics I will track are: Chronic absenteeism and overall attendance percentages (because students must be present to learn), Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program and Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System scores (to measure both proficiency and real academic growth), Graduation rates (with emphasis on college- and career-ready diplomas), and teacher retention rates (because quality educators are the heart of great schools). These are objective, publicly reported numbers that tell us whether Knox County Schools are truly preparing our children for success or simply moving them through the system.
What are your plans to support and retain quality teachers within the district?
DISTRICT 6
Cadence Collins: We have to do a better job of supporting our teachers in every sense of the word. Of course, I would advocate for better pay, but no paycheck is worth being miserable. We need to ensure our teachers have good classroom ratios, increase support with more teacher aides, and let our teachers teach without overly intense control and scrutiny from KCS or the government. Quality educators who love to teach do not wish to simply be facilitators of curriculum, but currently, they have little choice in how they go about teaching the state-mandated curriculum. We need to step back and give teachers the freedom to teach how they know best.
Kevin Crateau: I support the plan to get educators to the minimum of $50,000 salaries by next year. I also believe that we can’t end there and need to constantly look at market level pay studies to keep great educators in every classroom, KCS is already doing a great job with that, but we need to help with that by trimming non effective programs and rebalancing our budget priorities to match our strategic priorities.
Lee Ann Eaves: I want to continue with an environment where educators feel valued, heard and professionally supported. That they receive competitive compensation, clarity of work load, non-disruptive planning time, positive support of admin–especially when it comes to behavioral issues, providing additional support staff, and managing teacher/student ratio to give teachers time to use data to drive instruction.
Thiery Sommer: No response
DISTRICT 9:
Brandy Jenkins: Supporting teachers has to be a top priority if we want strong schools. I’ll continue fighting for competitive pay and improved working conditions so educators can focus on teaching our kids. We should look closely at things like class sizes, staffing support, and reducing unnecessary administrative pressures. When teachers have the resources and respect they deserve, they’re more likely to stay in the profession––and that stability benefits every student in our school system.
Kristi Kristy: This connects to one of my top three priorities listed above. First, we must ensure our teachers are paid professional and competitive wages. During my time on board, I consistently advocated for better pay as we were losing far too many talented educators to neighboring districts. We made a historic investment in teacher and staff pay two years ago and are seeing the benefits as we began this school year with fewer than six teacher vacancies district wide. Competitive pay is essential- not only to recruit the best educators, but to retain the experienced, highly qualified teachers our students deserve. Equally important is providing teachers with meaningful, high-quality professional development and the tools they need to be successful in the classroom. That includes support systems for addressing behavior issues and minimizing classroom disruptions so educators can focus on learning.
William Schofield: Great teachers built the schools we love, and we must treat them as the professionals they are. My plans include pushing for an equitable pay scale that keeps Knox County competitive with surrounding districts, so we stop losing talent to higher-paying neighbors. I will support regular, anonymous climate and culture surveys to identify and fix issues that drive good teachers away. Finally, I favor exploring a merit-based incentive system that rewards outstanding classroom performance—because excellence should be recognized and incentivized, not buried in one-size-fits-all contracts. At the same time, we must protect teachers from mandatory divisive trainings that waste time and erode morale, keeping the focus on what they do best: teaching our kids reading, writing, math, and real-world skills. Knox County families deserve schools that reflect East Tennessee values—academic excellence, parental authority, fiscal prudence, and a safe environment where every child can succeed. I’m ready to deliver that change on the Board of Education.
Katherine Bike, District 4:
Question 1: Why are you running for the school board, and what are your top three priorities? I’m running for reelection because the work isn’t finished. My three priorities: Protecting public school funding. Every dollar that leaves our public schools is a dollar that doesn’t reach our kids. I’ll keep pushing back on privatization schemes that drain resources without accountability. Student supports and intervention access. Too many kids are waiting too long to get the help they need. I want every student — regardless of which school they attend or what zip code they live in — to have access to the supports that set them up to succeed. School security. According to peer-reviewed research published in the Journal of School Health, students who feel safe at school report higher academic achievement, better attendance, and lower rates of disciplinary issues. Safety isn’t a side issue — it’s a precondition for learning. Every security decision we make should start there, with teaching and learning as the priority, not optics.
Question 2: How do you plan to engage with parents and the community to gather their input? As an incumbant I already do this — and I’ll keep doing it: I host “Meet Your Rep” events at local businesses, visit schools, and hold meetings in locations that are actually convenient for families — not just convenient for me. I write about board business publicly on Substack so constituents know what I’m thinking and why. I don’t disappear between votes. My track record on the board is part of my answer here. I’ve built relationships across the district, and I’ve shown that I’ll listen — and then actually act on what I hear.
Question 3: How do you plan to address mental health issues among students? The biggest barrier isn’t awareness — it’s access. Kids and families often know they need support. The problem is navigating a system that makes getting that support harder than it needs to be. My focus is on reducing those barriers: streamlining how students get connected to services, making sure school staff know what’s available and how to refer, and ensuring we have enough counselors and social workers to actually meet the need.
We can’t just say we care about student mental health and then underfund the infrastructure that delivers it. And I always vote in favor of mental health partnerships with the district.
Question 4: What metrics will you use to evaluate the success of our schools? Test scores are one data point. They’re not the whole picture. What happens in student support meetings — IEP meetings, 504s, intervention conferences — tells us a lot about whether a school is actually functioning for the kids who need it most. I don’t have visibility into those meetings, but I know the data matters. That’s why I’ve pushed to move it into policy: I’ve advocated for surveying parents after student support meetings so we can actually measure how families are experiencing the process. Metrics I’ve already been asking for are school enrollment sizes, teacher staffing ratios, and position vacancies for all other school-level positions on a regular basis.
Question 5: What are your plans to support and retain quality teachers within the district? Teachers are leaving the profession. Retention starts with compensation. Knox County has to remain competitive, and that means honest conversations about pay at the board level — not just applause at Teacher Appreciation Week. I’ve always supported raises for teachers and school staff. But it’s not only money. Working conditions matter. Class sizes, planning time, administrative burden — these are board-level decisions that affect whether teaching in Knox County is sustainable long-term. Teachers were not getting promised planning time during early release days and parents were struggling with pickup times with early release vs half days – I worked with the district to bring survey data and vote on a better plan for everyone.
Knox County Commission candidates will be covered next two Mondays.
KnoxTNToday will continue to share other primary-race candidates’ views in future articles.
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