The Tennessee Department of Education announced on Thursday that Holston Middle School has received the STEM designation, which recognizes excellence in delivering high-quality, integrated education related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. In addition, Farragut High School became a two-time recipient of the STEM designation.

Holston was one of 19 schools across the state to receive a STEM or STEAM designation for the first time this year. Only three other KCS schools – Farragut High, L&N STEM Academy and Green Magnet Academy – have ever received this designation, and Holston is the first middle school within the district to be recognized. Farragut High is one of 9 schools across the state to receive the STEM or STEAM designation this year for a second time.

In earning the distinction, Holston Middle and Farragut High serve as models for other schools across the state, as they reflect dedication to creating a comprehensive, student-centered learning environment that emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world application.