Chattanooga Schools

Hamilton County Schools remains dedicated to the goal of preparing students for success. During the 2024-2025 school year, Hamilton County Schools achieved its highest-ever graduation rate, and the school system was recognized as an “advancing district,” with 14 schools ranked among the top performing schools in the state. In addition, the district’s Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program scores reflect that the district increased its proficiency rates across all major subject areas.

With the goal of making Hamilton County Schools the fastest-improving district in Tennessee, college and career advisors are available throughout the district, along with opportunities for students to participate in advanced, dual enrollment, and STEAM classes. Students have opportunities to earn transferable credits to jumpstart their college education and increase their chances of success in postsecondary education.

Students also have unique opportunities to gain real-world experience in a number of highly competitive career fields. More than 20 Future Ready Institutes have been established in high schools throughout Hamilton County, in partnership with local businesses such as Volkswagen, Rock City, U.S. Xpress, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and EPB, as well as local hospitals. These institutes provide programs of study that allow students to gain hands-on experience in a variety of industries, such as entrepreneurship, aviation, engineering, business and marketing, healthcare, robotics, logistics, and more.

Hamilton County also offers the School Choice program, an individualized approach to education designed to help all students develop a passion for learning and pursue their unique dreams. This program allows open enrollment in schools that have seats available, giving students access to educational opportunities beyond the limits of their neighborhoods’ officially zoned schools. With this program, students can choose between college and career programs, magnet schools, Future Ready Institutes, charter schools, and more.

There are 14 magnet schools in Hamilton County with concentrations in liberal arts, fine arts, science, environmental science, math, and technology. Additionally, nine charter schools, as well as several specialty and public K-12 schools, provide specialized educational opportunities in the area. Hamilton County is also home to more than 38 private schools, many of which rank among the most prestigious in the country.