Knox County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Knox County Schools has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, technology, academics, and public affairs.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Knox County Schools invests in individuals to ensure a vibrant future for the entire county through comprehensive educational programs and resources.

Leadership Roles at Knox County Schools

  • Chief Operating Officer - Russ Oaks
  • Chief of Staff - Clifford Davis
  • Chief Technology Officer - Freddie Cox
  • Assistant Superintendent & Chief Academic Officer - Jonathan Rysewyk
  • Director, Public Affairs - Carly Harrington
  • Russ Oaks - Chief Operating Officer

    Russ Oaks, the Chief Operating Officer at Knox County Schools, oversees the comprehensive operational framework that supports the district's educational mission. Oaks manages the day-to-day functions, ensuring that all facilities, logistics, and support services operate at peak efficiency to facilitate student learning and achievement. This role involves strategic planning for resource allocation and infrastructure development across Knox County. By optimizing operational processes, Russ Oaks directly enables the delivery of high-quality instruction and career-focused programs. The Chief Operating Officer's leadership ensures that the physical and logistical aspects of the school system robustly support the academic goals and the commitment to investing in students for a vibrant future.
    Russ Oaks

    Clifford Davis - Chief of Staff

    Clifford Davis, the Chief of Staff at Knox County Schools, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the district. Davis manages key projects that support the overarching mission of providing students with essential instruction, resources, and support. This leadership position involves coordinating efforts between various departments to ensure seamless execution of educational programs. By fostering collaboration, Clifford Davis enhances the effectiveness of district-wide operations, directly contributing to the achievement of student goals and the long-term vitality of Knox County. The Chief of Staff ensures that administrative functions operate with maximum efficiency, supporting the academic and career development objectives central to the district's philosophy.

    Freddie Cox - Chief Technology Officer

    Freddie Cox, the Chief Technology Officer at Knox County Schools, architects and directs the district's technology infrastructure and digital learning initiatives. Cox ensures that students and educators have access to cutting-edge resources and support necessary for academic and career advancement. This leadership role involves the strategic implementation of technological solutions that enhance instruction, streamline administrative processes, and secure data integrity across Knox County. By driving innovation in educational technology, Freddie Cox directly supports the district's commitment to providing students with the tools they need to achieve their goals. The Chief Technology Officer's vision ensures that Knox County Schools remains at the forefront of technological integration in education.
    Freddie Cox

    Jonathan Rysewyk - Assistant Superintendent & Chief Academic Officer

    Jonathan Rysewyk, the Assistant Superintendent & Chief Academic Officer at Knox County Schools, leads the development and execution of all academic programs and curriculum standards. Rysewyk ensures that students receive the highest quality instruction and resources to achieve their educational and career objectives. This critical role involves overseeing instructional strategies, teacher development, and academic support services across the district. By focusing on academic excellence, Jonathan Rysewyk directly contributes to the district's mission of investing in students for a vibrant future for Knox County. The Assistant Superintendent & Chief Academic Officer's leadership guarantees that the academic framework is robust, innovative, and aligned with the evolving needs of students.
    Jonathan Rysewyk

    Carly Harrington - Director, Public Affairs

    Carly Harrington, the Director, Public Affairs at Knox County Schools, manages external communications and stakeholder engagement to support the district's mission. Harrington cultivates strong relationships with the community, media, and government entities, ensuring transparent and effective dissemination of information regarding educational initiatives and student achievements. This role is vital for building public trust and garnering support for the district's commitment to student success and future prosperity in Knox County. By strategically communicating the value of investing in students, Carly Harrington enhances the district's public profile and fosters a collaborative environment conducive to achieving educational goals.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Knox County Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Knox County Schools?
    Knox County Schools is led by Russ Oaks (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Clifford Davis (Chief of Staff) and Freddie Cox (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Knox County Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Knox County Schools includes leaders such as Russ Oaks (Chief Operating Officer), Clifford Davis (Chief of Staff), Freddie Cox (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Knox County Schools have?
    Knox County Schools has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Knox County Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Knox County Schools includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Technology Officer, Assistant Superintendent & Chief Academic Officer, Director, Public Affairs.