Student & Family Resources
Whether you’re new to our school or a longtime Carter High School family, we want to provide the resources you need to achieve success.
This is a central hub for students and families to easily access information for navigating the school and school day, including enrollment, student handbooks, information about schedules, extra curricular activities, and more!
Enrollment
Carter High School serves students in 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade.
Students who are zoned for Carter High and attended a Knox County middle school for 8th grade are automatically enrolled.
Enrollment for students who are new to the districts must be completed in person by a parent or legal guardian.
Daily Schedule
At Carter High, the school day begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. on regular school days.
On Late Arrival Wednesdays, the first bell rings at 8:40 a.m., and classes begin at 8:50 a.m. Dismissal is still 3:30 p.m.
Students must attend for at least 3.5 hours to be counted present for the day.
Academics
Carter High School proudly follows the district's 865 Academies model - connecting every student to college, career, and community.
In the Freshman Academy, ninth-grade students build a strong foundation for high school success through aptitude and career interest assessments, exploration of Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, and preparation for rigorous academic coursework.
Beginning in 10th grade, students select one of our two career-themed academies:
- The Academy of Engineering and Manufacturing
- The Academy of Communication and Health
Through these academies, students engage in challenging academic experiences, including Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and Dual Enrollment courses - both within their core subject areas and academy pathways. This combination of strong academics and real-world application ensures that every student graduates ready for college, career, and life.
As part of the districts 865 opportunities, all Carter High School students participate in industry field trips, job shadow experiences, and post-secondary visits, providing students firsthand exposure to future careers and educational pathways beyond high school.
Student Supports
The entire staff at Carter High School is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where every student can learn, grow, and succeed. Each academy is supported by its own school counselor, providing personalized academic and career guidance, along with a dedicated social worker who helps ensure students’ social, emotional, and personal well-being.
Athletics, Clubs, and Arts
Learning at Carter High School extends beyond the classroom.
Carter High offers a wide range of after-school and extracurricular opportunities—including athletics, clubs, and performing and visual arts—that allow students to develop new skills, connect with friends, and explore their personal passions.
Library / Media Center
The Carter High School Library is a central space for learning, reading, and discovery. Many teachers also offer classroom libraries with age-appropriate books to promote literacy and foster a passion for reading.
Carter High School Foundation
Carter High School is supported by a strong network of parent and community organizations through the Carns High School Foundation, a group dedicated to raising funds to strengthen academics, athletics, and the arts.