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Our Programs

Applications for the Summer 2026 Vol Ready Academy (June 1-6 for rising 8th & 9th graders) are open!  Apply by May 24, 2026.

Apply to be a Vol Ready Academy Participant 

Are you a current UT Student? Apply by May 20, 2026 to be a Vol Ready Counselor or Videographer!

Vol Ready Counselor or Videographer Application 

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Vol Ready Programs are our comprehensive K-8 pipeline programs aiming to get Flagship Community students ready for their future by addressing achievement gaps, building college awareness, and supporting students’ pathways to higher education. Our programs emphasize our four strategic pillars of success:

Academic Preparation, Career Exploration, Test Preparation, and Family Engagement.

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Academic Preparation

 Elementary and Middle School programs focusing on academic growth and college readiness.

Engagement Opportunities: 

  • STEM Engagements
  • Writing workshops 

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Career Exploration

Exposing students to diverse career paths and professional opportunities.

Engagement Opportunities:

  • Faculty and student speaker presentations and mentorship 
  • College and career fairs 
  • Student panels and networking opportunities 
  • Vol Ready Leadership Academy

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Test Preparation

Comprehensive test preparation and college entrance exam support.

Engagement Opportunities 

  • State test preparation sessions for all ages
  • ACT/SAT test preparation

Orange group of people icon with grey outline.Family Engagement

Supporting families in navigating educational pathways and college preparation.

Engagement Opportunities: 

  • Parent nights
  • Regional events
  • On-campus experiences and tours 

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Vol Ready Academy

The Vol Ready Academy (VRA) is a week-long, on-campus leadership development experience in the summer hosted by the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Office of Flagship Communities within the Division of Access and Engagement. This program is designed for rising 8th and 9th-grade students and introduces them to the foundational principles of impactful leadership and collaboration.

The program will be held from June 1 – June 6, 2026

Applications are open now! Apply HERE.

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College Access Etiquette Luncheon

The UTK Etiquette Luncheon was held on Monday, February 16, 2026 (President’s Day). This special annual luncheon is an experience designed to help high school students build confidence and develop professional dining and networking skills in a formal setting. Through guided instruction, invited students will learn essential etiquette skills that support success in interviews, internships, and future professional opportunities.

Be on the lookout for next year’s opportunity!