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Farragut West Knox
Knox County Mayor’s Vision and Economic Development Plans
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nox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs has a specific focus for strengthening Knox County’s role in the global economy. To do this, he emphasizes: • Ensuring better schools for everyone by improving literacy and expanding opportunities for career and technical education pathways; • Focusing on business development; and • Improving infrastructure as the community continues to grow. In Knox County, only about 40 percent of children are reading on grade level—per the state literacy standards—by the third grade. This means most students can read the words on the page, but they can’t synthesize the information enough to fully comprehend what they’ve read. Students who read on grade level, and can meet state literacy competencies, are more likely to graduate high school. High school graduates are more likely to seek continuing education in the form of post-secondary education. Literacy has a significant impact on a ready
workforce. Only with a diverse, educated and/or skilled workforce, can Knox County meet the workforce needs of the businesses already operating in our community and attract new ones. Further, it is important we teach our students that a college degree isn’t the only way to success. Many skilled tradesmen and women are leaving the workforce faster than young, qualified individuals can be trained to replace them, so it is vitally important to promote career and technical education pathways in our schools. Because of the trade partnerships being formed in this community, students seeking a certification will likely get one. With an abundance of flat land and ready access to water ways and interstate systems, Knox County is an appealing location to build a business. With active and abundant outdoor tourism opportunities, proximity to the splendor of the Smoky Mountains and a community focus on and commitment to building a strong workforce, Knox County has incredible assets
