Austin-East HS to host block party – today

Austin-East High School will host a community celebration today (3/25/26) from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the school, 2800 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. Attendees should park in the rear parking lot.

The event – planned and led by AE students – will feature student showcases representing programs, clubs and organizations, along with carnival games, bounce houses, hands-on activities and a dunk tank.

Admission and parking are free, and all AEHS students, families, alumni, community partners and feeder school communities are welcome. Food will be provided free to the first 150 guests, with additional items available for purchase.

AMSE Foundation rebrands as Oak Ridge Discovery Foundation

The organization formerly known as the AMSE Foundation has officially rebranded as the Oak Ridge Discovery Foundation (ORDF), marking a bold new chapter in its mission to preserve, interpret, and expand the story of Oak Ridge’s scientific legacy and cultural heritage.

It’s more than just a name change. The Oak Ridge Discovery Foundation is poised to broaden its focus beyond traditional museum support to include expanded attractions, immersive historical storytelling, and new heritage-driven experiences that reflect Oak Ridge’s unique identity and its tremendous position within the scientific community.

Alan Lowe is the executive director. The new focus is on the future of nuclear science, clean energy and advanced technology.

The Foundation will continue supporting public education initiatives, including Nuclear Science Week programming, STEAM outreach and events such as the Atomic Expo. Growth can include new programs that connect science, history and community. ORDF will remain a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Energy.

Katherine Bike explains kickoff

Katherine Bike, school board member from District 4 (Bearden area), kicked off her campaign for reelection yesterday with a party at the Plaid Apron and a post explaining the word “kickoff.” Her posts are fun and often informative. Check them here.

Student on the BOE

Thursday, March 26, is the deadline to apply for consideration to be the Student Representative for the 2026–27 school year on the Knox County school board. This is a great opportunity for a rising senior to gain leadership experience and represent student voices across KCS. Learn more and apply: knoxschools.org/board

Notes & Quotes

Half-day today for Knox County Schools (3/25/26) plus full day off Friday, April 3. The Knox County Board of Education will meet on Thursday, April 9, at 5 p.m. in the BOE board room.

Halls Elementary School staff were treated to an amazing lunch on March 23 with food from Bel Air Grill and items from parents to round it out.

West Valley Middle School plans Valleywood, the eighth-grade celebration, for Wednesday, May 13, from 6-8:30 p.m. at The Lighthouse, 6804 Baum Drive, Knoxville. It is co-sponsored by the West Valley PTSO and the West Valley Education Foundation.

Gresham Middle School is seeking support for treats for students after completion of the state testing. Here’s a link: Amazon Gift List

Bobcat Bash, Central High School, Thursday, April 2, 5-7 p.m. Car show, vendors, food trucks and more. Info: Cassidy Taylor at 865-689-1400 ext. 71915 or email cassidy.taylor@knoxschools.org.

Oak Ridge Schools will host a districtwide Job Fair on Wednesday, April 1, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 304 New York Avenue, Oak Ridge. Info: www.ortn.edu/.

Quote: “The roadrunner is an opportunistic omnivore. Its diet consists of insects, small reptiles (such as lizards and snakes) rodents and other small mammals and birds, eggs, fruits and seeds. The roadrunner forages on the ground and, when hunting, usually runs after prey from under cover. It can run up to 20-miles-per-hour.” Source.

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