About Us

Located in Board of Education District 3 and KCS Region 4, Ridgedale School serves students from across Knox County in a unique setting. Ridgedale School is the only school in Knox County that serves students from ages 5 to 22. Our diverse range of student ages, grade bands, programming, and ability levels provide unique opportunities for collaboration and working across subjects, programs, and grade bands unlike any other school in Knox County.

Middle School Alternative

The Middle School Alternative Program provides an opportunity for students in grades 6-8 to continue their education during a long-term suspension from their base school. We are dedicated to providing rigorous instruction utilizing trauma-informed instructional practices. Academic instruction follows KCS curriculum and course pacing guides. Students have the advantage of smaller class sizes with two adults in each classroom to provide additional academic support. Educators at Ridgedale encourage students to be lifelong learners. This is achieved through student ownership and pride in academic success. Students are regularly recognized for consistent positive behavior and work toward a successful transition back to their base school.

Special Day School Program

The Special Day School Program provides services for students, age 5 through 22, who are eligible for special education services or may be suspected of having a disability under IDEA. Students in our Day program receive individualized support for the development of behavioral, social, emotional, and academic skills. Our staff ensures that students receive appropriate educational opportunities through collaboration and inclusive practices. Services are provided in a highly structured setting with a low student to staff ratio so that all student needs can be addressed in a safe environment.

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Principal

Donna Brunson

Mrs. Donna Brunson has dedicated 23 years to working with students and currently serves as the principal of Ridgedale School. She is a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a B.S. in Psychology and and M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as an ED.S. in Instructional Leadership from Lincoln Memorial University. Before beginning her teaching career, Mrs. Brunson worked as a counselor and therapist for Peninsula Behavioral Health, supporting children and families in clinical settings. She began teaching in 2009 as a Mathematics teacher at Vine Middle Magnet School. After three years, she joined Austin-East Magnet High School, where she taught Mathematics for seven years and served as a TAP Mentor and Master Teacher. Her passion for empowering teachers and supporting student success led her into school leadership - first as an Assistant Principal at Fulton High School, and now as Principal of Ridgedale School.

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Dean of Students

David McGinnis

Mr. David McGinnis is a dedicated educator currently in his 25th year of working with students and serves a the Dean of Students at Ridgedale. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Carson-Newman University, a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Tusculum University, and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Administration from Lincoln Memorial University.

Mr. McGinnis began his journey in education after a 17-year career in manufacturing, bringing with him a strong work ethic and real-world experience that have enriched his approach to teaching and leadership. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to fostering academic excellence, building strong relationships, and supporting the growth and success of every student he serves.

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Staff Directory

Our staff directory provides a comprehensive and easily accessible listing of school and district personnel. Searches can be made by name, job title, or facility location.

Search Directory

Calendar

Ridgedale follows an academic calendar approved by the Board of Education that identifies the first and last day of school; student and teacher in-service days; early release days; school holidays; and grading periods.

These calendars are detailed by school year.

See Calendar

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