Chattanooga, TN — Hamilton County Schools (HCS) hosted its biennial Partners in Education Awards Breakfast at the Read House on Friday, November 15, to celebrate the power of partnership and honor the unwavering commitment of community partners who help to ensure all children thrive. The event brought together a wide range of nonprofits, businesses, volunteer organizations, government entities, and dedicated individuals who contribute their time, talent, and resources to make meaningful impact to educational outcomes for Hamilton County students.
"Our community partners represent the best of Hamilton County’s spirit—coming together to empower students, support educators, and open doors to opportunities,” says Dr. Justin Robertson, Superintendent of Hamilton County Schools. “Their commitment to our schools strengthens not only our classrooms but our entire community. This event serves as a reminder that education is a shared responsibility, and the achievements of Hamilton County Schools are rooted in the strength of its partnerships."
The morning was a celebration of collaboration, inclusivity, and the collective impact of a community rallying around our public schools. HCS focused their awards around action areas for their district and families. Awards were presented in the categories of Early Learning, Equity in Education, Educator Champion, Faith-Based, Family Resource, Future Ready, Out-of-School Time, and Partner of the Year.
Partner in Education Award Finalists
Early Learning
● Creative Discovery Museum (Winner)
● Chambliss Center for Children
● Robyn Stringfellow - WTCI-PBS
Educator Champion
● Junior League of Chattanooga
● National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
● ArtsBuild (Winner)
Equity in Education
● Lewis Jackson - Chattanooga State Community College, Early College
● Scenic City Love on a Leash
● Troy Rogers - 423 Chain Breakers (Winner)
Faith-Based
● Spirit City Church
● St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church (Winner)
●Signal Crest United Methodist Church
Family Resource
● Mackenzie Kelly - Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition
● First Things First
● Read and Ride Program - CARTA and Chattanooga Public Library (Winner)
Future Ready
● (Be)Caffeinated
● Trust for Public Land (Winner)
● White Oak Bicylce Co-Op
Out-of-School Time
● Chattanooga Public Library
● East Lake Expression Engine
● The Centenary (The Winner)
Partner of the Year
● BlueCross Blue Shield of Tennessee
● KELCURT Foundation
● Darren Hodges - Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED (Winner)
Hamilton County Schools invites new and existing partners to deepen their relationship with the district. Whether through enrichment programming, family and student resources, supporting educators, or sharing expertise, there are countless ways to make a difference in the lives of students.
“This event shows just how powerful partnerships can be at any level," said Kate Skonberg, Director of Family and Community Engagement. "Each contribution helps move us towards a thriving future for every student. We’re excited to continue growing this incredible network of support and invite others to join us in making a lasting impact in Hamilton County Schools.”
For more information on how to become a partner with Hamilton County Schools, please visit www.hcde.org or contact
[email protected].
View the presentation and partner summaries
here.