Belle Morris Elementary School
General Information
Overview
Belle Morris Elementary School is a distinguished public elementary institution located in Knoxville, Tennessee, known for its deep commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and student development. The school is part of Knox County Schools and serves a diverse student population from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. Belle Morris focuses on nurturing the whole child through an engaging curriculum that integrates literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and fine arts. The school’s mission emphasizes creating lifelong learners who are responsible, compassionate, and capable of succeeding in an ever-changing world.
With a strong emphasis on character education, inclusivity, and parent collaboration, Belle Morris has become a cornerstone of the local community. The school also integrates technology and hands-on learning, ensuring students gain 21st-century skills essential for future academic success. Teachers and administrators at Belle Morris work collaboratively to provide a safe, supportive, and stimulating learning environment that encourages curiosity, respect, and creativity.
Contact Information
Address: 2308 Washington Pike, Knoxville, TN 37917
Phone Number: (865) 594-5231
Email Address: bellemorris@knoxschools.org
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1927 |
| Motto | “Learning Together, Growing Together” |
| Type | Public Elementary School |
| Grades | Pre-K–5 |
| Mascot | Bulldog |
| School Colors | Blue and White |
| District | Knox County Schools |
| Accreditation | Tennessee Department of Education |
Belle Morris Elementary School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Tennessee Public Elementary Schools | Top 25% |
| Knoxville Area Schools | Top 15% |
| Reading Proficiency (State) | Top 20% |
| Math Proficiency (State) | Top 25% |
| National Elementary Schools | Top 30% |
Belle Morris Elementary School Academics
Belle Morris Elementary School Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science and Environmental Studies
- Social Studies
- Fine Arts and Music
- Physical Education and Health
- Library and Media Services
- English Language Development (ELD)
- Special Education and Support Programs
Belle Morris Elementary School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Core Curriculum (Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies)
- STEM and Robotics Integration
- Music, Art, and Performing Arts
- Physical Education and Fitness
- Technology and Computer Literacy
- Gifted and Talented (GATE) Program
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
- Leadership and Citizenship Initiatives
Online Learning
Belle Morris Elementary School incorporates digital learning through platforms like Google Classroom, IXL, and Lexia Core5. These tools enhance classroom instruction by offering adaptive lessons tailored to student needs. Teachers use data-driven strategies to monitor progress and customize instruction, while parents stay informed through digital communication systems. During remote learning periods, the school provided Chromebooks and internet support to ensure accessibility for all families. This commitment to blended learning reflects Belle Morris’s dedication to preparing students for a technologically advanced future.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| English Language Arts (TNReady) | 69% Proficient or Above |
| Mathematics (TNReady) | 65% Proficient or Above |
| Science (State Assessment) | 71% Proficient or Above |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As an elementary institution, Belle Morris does not report graduation rates; however, it maintains a 98% promotion rate to middle school. The retention rate remains exceptionally low, at approximately 1.5%, due to the school’s comprehensive intervention programs, tutoring support, and family partnerships. Academic coaches and specialized educators work together to ensure every student meets grade-level expectations, embodying the school’s mission to leave no learner behind.
Belle Morris Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a public elementary school, Belle Morris Elementary does not require GPA, SAT, or ACT scores for enrollment. Admission is determined primarily by district zoning, and all children residing within the assigned area are eligible to attend. Out-of-district students may apply for transfer based on availability.
Belle Morris Elementary School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| In-District Students | 100% |
| Out-of-District Transfers | 85% (Based on Capacity) |
Belle Morris Elementary School Application Requirements
Enrollment at Belle Morris Elementary is designed to be inclusive and straightforward. Families must provide proof of residency, the child’s birth certificate, and up-to-date immunization records. Additional documents, such as previous report cards or special education plans, may be required for transfer students. The school emphasizes accessibility for all families and offers enrollment support in multiple languages to accommodate its diverse community.
Application Process
- Complete the Knox County Schools online or paper enrollment form.
- Provide proof of residency (utility bill or lease agreement).
- Submit birth certificate and vaccination records.
- Attend the optional school orientation session.
- Receive teacher assignment and class details.
- Begin classes on the designated start date.
Belle Morris Elementary School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | February 1 |
| Kindergarten Round-Up | April 10 |
| Transfer Applications Due | May 15 |
| School Year Begins | August 12 |
Essay Prompt
Belle Morris Elementary does not require an essay as part of its admission process. However, writing is a core academic focus, and students participate in creative and informational writing projects that help develop communication and critical thinking skills from an early age.
Belle Morris Elementary School Scholarships
Although scholarships are not typically offered at the elementary level, Belle Morris provides financial assistance through community partnerships and its active Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The school ensures that all students have access to necessary resources, field trips, and extracurricular activities regardless of financial background, promoting educational equality across its student body.
Belle Morris Elementary School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public School) |
| Registration Fee | None |
| Extracurricular Programs | Varies ($10–$50 per Activity) |
| PTA Membership (Optional) | $25 per Year |
| Financial Assistance | Available for Qualifying Families |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Belle Morris Elementary serves around 450 students representing a diverse range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The student body is composed of approximately 50% male and 50% female students, reflecting balanced enrollment. Ethnic representation includes 40% White, 30% Hispanic, 20% African American, 5% Asian, and 5% Multiracial students. This diversity enhances the school’s inclusive and multicultural environment, promoting empathy, understanding, and respect among students.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 65% of students at Belle Morris Elementary qualify for free or reduced lunch programs, highlighting the school’s dedication to supporting economically disadvantaged families. The school offers a comprehensive support system for students with disabilities, including Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), resource specialists, and adaptive learning tools. Dedicated staff members ensure that all students receive equitable educational opportunities, regardless of socioeconomic or physical challenges.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 450 |
| Average Class Size | 18 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 13:1 |
| English Language Learners | 20% |
| Special Education Students | 10% |
University Diversity
Belle Morris Elementary School celebrates diversity as one of its greatest strengths. The school regularly hosts multicultural events, language appreciation weeks, and global heritage activities to promote unity and understanding. Students learn about world cultures through art, literature, and music, fostering appreciation for differences while emphasizing shared values. The school’s inclusive practices extend to curriculum design and extracurricular programs, making diversity not just a demographic fact but a living principle that defines its educational philosophy.
Average Earnings
While Belle Morris Elementary does not track alumni earnings, the school’s strong educational foundation has helped its graduates perform exceptionally well in middle and high school. Students leaving Belle Morris often demonstrate advanced literacy and numeracy skills, setting them up for long-term academic success and future career readiness. The emphasis on early learning and strong character development serves as a springboard for future achievements across academic and professional spheres.
Belle Morris Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Belle Morris Elementary employs a dedicated team of approximately 30 teachers and 12 support staff members who bring passion and expertise to their work. The teaching staff includes specialists in early literacy, STEM education, and special education. All educators are certified by the Tennessee Department of Education and participate in ongoing professional development programs to stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies.
Faculty Profiles
Many Belle Morris faculty members have earned recognition for excellence in teaching and community engagement. Teachers integrate project-based learning and technology-driven instruction to ensure students remain engaged and challenged. The staff’s collective experience and dedication create a learning atmosphere rooted in collaboration, respect, and academic rigor.
Belle Morris Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Belle Morris Elementary campus offers a welcoming and safe environment equipped with modern classrooms, a library media center, music and art rooms, and a multipurpose gymnasium. Outdoor learning spaces, playgrounds, and gardens encourage experiential learning and physical activity. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities such as student council, art club, robotics, and choir. The school also hosts annual family events and literacy nights to foster community involvement and parental engagement.
Transportation
Belle Morris Elementary provides convenient access through Knoxville’s public transportation system and district-operated school buses. Bus routes are available for eligible students, ensuring safe and timely transportation. The campus is pedestrian-friendly, with crosswalks and sidewalks that promote walking and biking. Ample parking spaces and designated pick-up zones make drop-off and pick-up efficient for families.