Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs’ School Mania is set to return for its fifth year in the parking lot of the Jacob Building in Chilhowee Park. The drive through event will, for the first time, take place during Tax Free Weekend to ensure families have time to purchase any school- or grade-specific supplies they don’t receive at School Mania.
The list of supplies being distributed was curated with the help of Knox County Schools to include as many general school supplies as possible. Thanks to the generous support of nearly 30 donors and financial sponsors, the Mayor’s Office will distribute 2,500 bags each valued around $45. Bags are available on a first come, first served basis while supplies last.
Additionally, BlueCare Tennessee and DentaQuest will offer free school supplies with dental screenings while supplies last. No appointment necessary and walk-ins are welcome at their mobile unit from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on
- July 17 at Boys and Girls Pediatrics (4600 Asheville Highway, 37914)
- July 18 at North Knoxville Pediatrics (1400 Dutch Valley Drive, 37918)
- July 19 at Hardin Valley Pediatrics (10857 Hardin Valley Road, 37932)
“The hope is that with the opportunity to get supplies from BlueCare Tennessee and DentaQuest, at our drive through event, and during the Sales Tax Holiday, students will be well-prepared,” said Mayor Jacobs.
At past events, a parent or guardian had to have a child present for every bag they requested. This year, while kids’ attendance is encouraged, it isn’t required. Attendees are asked to remain in their vehicles the whole time they are on property.
Cars will enter Chilhowee Park via 3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive and follow a one-way traffic flow to exit on Magnolia Ave. Event gates will open at 2 p.m. to allow cars to assemble, but no school supplies will be distributed before 3 p.m.