Knox County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Dedicated to fostering student success, Knox County Schools invests in individuals to ensure a vibrant future for the entire community through comprehensive educational support 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, directs all operational facets critical to the district's functioning. Overseeing essential services, Oaks ensures the efficient delivery of resources and support systems that underpin student achievement and community engagement. This leadership role involves managing the logistical framework that enables educational initiatives to thrive across Knox County. By optimizing resource allocation and operational workflows, Russ Oaks directly impacts the district's capacity to serve its student population effectively. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight guarantees that the infrastructure supporting the Career Magnet Academy and other institutions aligns with the overarching mission of investing in students for a vibrant future.
    Russ Oaks

    Clifford Davis - Chief of Staff

    Clifford Davis, the Chief of Staff at Knox County Schools, manages strategic initiatives and ensures alignment across key departments. Davis facilitates communication and collaboration between executive leadership and various stakeholders, driving the implementation of the district's core mission. This position involves coordinating efforts to provide students with the necessary instruction, resources, and support for goal achievement. The Chief of Staff's role is pivotal in translating the vision of investing in students into tangible operational plans. By streamlining processes and enhancing organizational efficiency, Clifford Davis directly contributes to the district's commitment to fostering individual student success and securing a vibrant future for Knox County.

    Freddie Cox - Chief Technology Officer

    Freddie Cox, the Chief Technology Officer at Knox County Schools, architects and oversees the district's technological infrastructure. Cox drives innovation in educational technology, ensuring students and educators have access to cutting-edge resources and support systems. This leadership function is crucial for delivering effective instruction in a modern learning environment. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include managing digital platforms, cybersecurity, and technology integration to enhance the learning experience. By implementing robust technological solutions, Freddie Cox directly supports the district's commitment to student achievement and its investment in a future-ready workforce. Technology leadership ensures the Career Magnet Academy and all Knox County Schools are equipped for evolving educational demands.
    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 academic strategies. Rysewyk ensures the delivery of high-quality instruction and comprehensive support systems designed to help students achieve their educational goals. This critical role involves curriculum oversight, pedagogical innovation, and the implementation of programs that foster student success. The Chief Academic Officer's focus on educational excellence directly aligns with the district's mission to invest in students for a vibrant future. By driving academic rigor and ensuring equitable access to learning opportunities, Jonathan Rysewyk significantly impacts the educational outcomes for all students within Knox County.
    Jonathan Rysewyk

    Carly Harrington - Director, Public Affairs

    Carly Harrington, the Director, Public Affairs at Knox County Schools, manages external communications and stakeholder relations. Harrington cultivates positive relationships with the community, media, and government entities, ensuring transparent and effective information dissemination. This role is vital for articulating the district's commitment to student success and its investment in the future of Knox County. The Director of Public Affairs oversees initiatives that highlight the resources and support provided to students, reinforcing the organization's mission. By fostering strong public engagement, Carly Harrington directly contributes to building trust and support for the educational endeavors across the district, ensuring a vibrant future for all.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    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.