The South Knoxville Elementary School student council hosted its annual inauguration ceremony on October 6, 2022, at the historic Blount Mansion in downtown Knoxville.
United States Magistrate Judge Jill McCook administered the oath of office to the students, who promised to “proudly lead their peers, openly listen to their concerns and be a role model for everyone to see.”
State Rep. Gloria Johnson presented a Tennessee state flag that was flown over the Capitol on their behalf. City council member Tommy Smith presented a proclamation dedicating the day as South Knoxville Student Council Inauguration Day on behalf of Mayor Indya Kincannon. Knox County Commissioner Carson Dailey attended.
After the swearing-in, students gathered in the east parlor of Blount Mansion to sign their names to their oath on a piece of parchment paper using a quill pen. Their oath will be displayed at South Knoxville Elementary School.
Blount Mansion was home to William Blount, a signer of the United States Constitution, former U. S. senator and former governor of the Southwest Territory. The event was sponsored by the South Knoxville Elementary School, Blount Mansion and Held Law Firm.
Margaret Held, founding attorney of Held Law, said, “Lawyers should be involved in our communities. Especially when it comes to teaching our young people the importance of civics, governmental action and public service.”
Josie Russell contributed to this report