KCS announces Christian Horner as chief technology officer

KINGSPORT — Kingsport City Schools has named Christian Horner as the district's chief technology officer. In his position, Horner will oversee all technology operations for the district, including programs, services, policies, support and programming. Horner will assume the role on Sept. 21. He will replace Andy Arnold, who retired last month. "Mr. Horner has demonstrated the leadership, expertise and commitment to service that make him the right person to lead our technology efforts as chief technology officer," said Superintendent Dr. Chris Hampton. "Technology touches every aspect of our school district, and Mr. Horner understands that our goal is not technology for technology's sake. . . . It is using technology thoughtfully and strategically to improve teaching and learning, strengthen operations and better serve our students, staff and families. I am excited to see him take on this expanded leadership role and look forward to the continued progress he will help lead for Kingsport City Schools." Horner has worked in education for 18 years and has been an employee of KCS since 2020. He most recently served as the KCS coordinator of innovative learning. In that role, he provided leadership for the integration of educational technology and designed and facilitated district-wide professional development programs. He also collaborated with leadership to evaluate educational software, manage technology budgets and align digital curriculum with state standards. He also previously served as a middle school social studies teacher and instructional technology coach with Rutherford County Schools. Horner holds a bachelor of science in geography from Middle Tennessee State University and a master of arts in education degree from Trevecca Nazarene University. He is currently pursuing a doctor of education degree from East Tennessee State University and is expected to graduate in 2028. "I am incredibly honored and excited to step into the role of Chief Technology Officer for Kingsport City Schools," said Horner. "My time as innovative learning coordinator allowed me to build strong, collaborative partnerships across every school and department. Together, we explored new practices and developed innovative products and systems, all with the goal to improve learning for KCS students. As chief technology officer, I look forward to building upon our progress by ensuring that our technology strategy is driven by our common goal of improving the learning experience for our students. I am truly grateful for the trust placed in me, and I am excited to continue working alongside our incredible team to serve our students, staff and community in this new capacity."