In a word, Knoxville High School is giving students something powerful—opportunity. Through the dedication and vision of teachers like Jamie Palmer, the math department has quietly become a crown jewel of the district, nurturing critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and future-ready individuals.

As Knoxville's geometry and pre-calculus instructor, Palmer carries an unassuming authority. “Nobody graduates without coming through me,” she chuckles, but it’s more than a point of pride. She recognizes that her role goes far beyond textbooks and formulas; it’s about building resilience, igniting curiosity, and preparing students for whatever path they choose.

For Palmer, who graduated from Knoxville High herself in the class of 2000, math isn’t just a subject—it’s a life skill. After two decades of teaching across Illinois, Virginia, and Ohio, Palmer returned home, carrying with her a well-rounded teaching philosophy shaped by her experiences in both small rural schools and bustling urban centers. It’s this blend of hometown pride and worldly perspective that shapes her approach, making Knoxville’s math program a quiet yet transformative force.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to offer AP Calculus, AP Pre-Calculus, and several other high-level math courses for a school this size,” Palmer notes. For many rural schools, advanced math offerings are a pipe dream. In Knoxville, however, they’re a reality. Partnering with Carl Sandburg College, the district also enables students to earn college credit in algebra and statistics while still in high school. These programs don’t just help students academically—they can save thousands of dollars in tuition down the road.

Of course, it’s not just about college-bound kids. Palmer is equally passionate about her students entering the trades. “I tell them, ‘If you want to be a well-paid welder, you better understand geometry,’” she says with a smile. This practical perspective resonates with many of her students, particularly those who initially think math isn’t for them. Palmer has a knack for bridging the abstract with the tangible, ensuring her students see the relevance of math, whether in a college classroom, a machine shop, or on a farm.

Behind these academic accomplishments is a resilient group of teachers who, despite turnover in administration, have kept the wheels turning. Knoxville’s math department, Palmer explains, is a tight-knit crew of educators who collaborate daily, driven by the shared belief that they’re not just teaching math—they’re shaping lives. This collaborative spirit, combined with new leadership that supports their goals, has set the stage for even more progress in the coming years.

In a community like ours, where connections run deep, Palmer’s journey home is a full-circle story. Through her leadership, Knoxville’s math program is empowering students to succeed in a complex world, proving once again that this small town’s greatest asset is its people.