Philosophy

Each child is unique, dynamic - a precious gift. We must guide, support, and protect them. We must provide an environment where students will not only be encouraged to learn, but where they develop a sense of responsiblity, self- motivation and compassion.

Mission

At Tate's School of Discovery our mission is fourfold.

• First, we strive to create a strongly affirmative environment where students feel safe and supported as we embolden them to challenge themselves and take educational risks.
• Second, we work together to make our curriculum effective and sequential, aiming always to make learning as meaningful for each young person as we possibly can.
• Third, we select talented, enthusiastic teachers and provide them with the support and training that they need to develop professionally.
• Finally, we embrace our students with a sense of belonging, stimulating lessons, body-brain compatiable activities,and continuous opportunities to expand their knowledge about and understanding of their world.

History

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, just off Interstate 40, lies a school with a passion for excellence - Tate's School of Discovery. The story of Tate's success began in 1968 when Lou L Tate founded the school at Erin Presbyterian Church with the idea of creating an environment where students could not only be encouraged to learn, but where they could also develop a sense of responsibility, self-motivation and compassion. Tate's quickly became known in the area for its high academic standards, traditional values, and low teacher-pupil ratio. After experiencing a steady and gradual expansion, the school was later relocated to west Knoxville where it now stands on a picturesque fifty-acre farm with rolling hills and unspoiled wooded areas. A log cabin and a delightful farmhouse are just a few of the unique buildings that provide cheerful and inviting classrooms where students enjoy learning in the freedom and serenity of the pastoral surroundings.

While relying on past experience and tradition, Tate's also keeps an eye toward the future with the latest in technology in the classrooms and with teachers well-trained in current educational methods. Academically capable students are challenged by the variety and depth of the curriculum offered at Tate's and are guided along the way by a caring and professional teaching staff. It is a place where students trust themselves enough to take risks in a safe and supportive environment. The teachers at Tate's strive to maintain an open line of communication with parents, because they share the belief that a large part of a student's success involves a joint effort between parents and teachers.

Graduates from Tate's leave with a sound academic foundation, a lifelong love of learning and a positive self-worth. Although our students go on to academic and professional success later in life, they continue to be considered a part of Tate's family and are always greeted with a warm welcome when they return "home" to visit with teachers and friends. Tate's is simply a wonderful place for children to learn and grow, to develop self-esteem and friendships, and to celebrate and share accomplishments.