Our Initiatives
Graduation Really Achieves Dreams
For more than 20 years, Project GRAD has inspired hope and provided opportunities to help improve student achievement, graduation rates, and college/career readiness, while removing barriers to postsecondary enrollment and completion. Today, Project GRAD staff collaborates within the school structure of Austin-East and Fulton high schools to support students and families in addressing challenges to academic success by connecting them with community-based resources and enrichment opportunities.
Project GRAD collaborates with three longstanding higher education partners, University of Tennessee, Pellissippi State Community College, and Tennessee College of Applied Technology/TCAT Knoxville, by offering on-campus experiences, exposing Austin-East and Fulton students to various postsecondary pathways, college resources, and support during the summer. Project GRAD provides community and family resources helping to ensure successful transition to postsecondary enrollment and supporting scholar completion through efforts to inform, equip, and support graduates from Austin-East and Fulton high schools.
High Schools
Project GRAD supports students who attend Austin-East and Fulton high schools.
Scholarships
Click the button below for full details about project GRAD scholarships.
The Pittman Family Scholarship Fund, administered by the Knox Education Foundation, is available for high school seniors enrolled in Knox County Schools. To qualify, applicants must have a parent or legal guardian who is a current, deceased, or disabled employee with the Knoxville Fire Department. Eligible students should complete an online interest form by January 1, 2025, to receive a link to the full scholarship application.