Chattanooga, TN — Hamilton County Schools (HCS) has been recognized by the Tennessee Department of Education with the Advancing District accountability designation for the first time since 2019.
This designation is a part of the state’s accountability system, which is determined through multiple factors, including student growth, academic achievement, grade band success rates, chronic absenteeism rates, English Language Proficiency Assessment performance, and graduation rates. This status comes on the heels of the district’s highest-ever graduation rate of 94.2%. “I’ve often said that a healthy school district cannot be measured by just one thing. I’m really proud of the work happening in our schools every day,” said Dr. Justin Robertson, HCS Superintendent.
“This recognition confirms what we’ve already been seeing — our students are learning and our schools are creating meaningful connections with kids. This progress does not happen overnight, but is a result of dedicated teachers and staff, proven strategies, and consistency in support and leadership.”
The state sets district status according to five levels: Exemplary, Advancing, Satisfactory, Marginal, and In Need of Improvement. For the last few years, HCS has been designated as Satisfactory, moving up to the Advancing category reflects strategic decision making by the Hamilton County Board of Education, measurable improvements in student outcomes, and the district systems of support.
Classroom Success
This year, the district has seen notable improvement and progress in key grade bands such as high school and early learning.
Over the last few years, the district has invested in supports at key grade levels, especially focusing on transition grades such as middle school and high school transition. The development and implementation of freshman academies has shown exceptional progress in setting students on a successful track earlier in high school, a proven strategy for ensuring high school students make it to graduation.
With focused support, the district saw increases in overall success rates in core content areas in high school as well as growth in both elementary and high school subject areas.
Strengthening Student Engagement and Attendance
The district has also focused resources on proactive approaches to reducing barriers to student learning, such as chronic absenteeism. The district has prioritized systems and structures that identify and assist families needing additional outreach and provide direct intervention. These district efforts have been strengthened through partnerships with key local leaders and organizations through the Hamilton County Children’s Cabinet and Out-of-School Time Alliance.
Fostering student connection and engagement remains central to the district’s approach. The expansion of advisories and student clubs has helped create school cultures that promote students finding their strengths and developing joy in learning. Building these relationships with students has contributed to increased student attendance and engagement in learning inside and outside of the classroom.
The Advancing District accountability designation is a testament to the work of HCS teachers, students, and leaders. Looking ahead, the district will continue to focus on data-backed strategies for student learning, building relationships with students and families, and developing impactful teachers and leaders.
“I’m extremely proud of our school district. This recognition is the result of years of hard work and a steady focus on student success,” said Joe Smith, Hamilton County Board of Education Chairman. “It speaks to the intentional decisions made by the school board, the leadership of Dr. Robertson and his team, the commitment of our principals, and most importantly, the work of our teachers every day in their classrooms. This is their achievement, and I am grateful to be a part of it.”
