a home away from home!
Our resident life program is about family and community. Close friendships that students develop often last a lifetime. We have a healthy resident life community led by dorm directors and staff who create a safe, supportive, compassionate, and respectful family environment.
Just as TKA becomes a “home away from home” for resident life students, dorm directors and staff become “parents away from home” for our students. Our resident life staff are teachers and coaches and have high moral character. They invest time getting to know their students and support and encourage them academically, socially, physically, and spiritually. Dorm directors and staff live with our students in the dormitories and are fully involved in parenting them. Our dorm directors review each student’s grades weekly and assign students to one of two facilitated study halls according to each student’s academic progress.
Activities are scheduled with our student’s work load as a priority. Most of the activities are optional, allowing our students to prioritize their academic responsibilities. Optional activities may include hiking, outdoor experiences, shopping, movies and theme parks. Some examples of activities on campus in which students may participate include athletic events, drama, movie nights, baking nights, and pool parties.
What Makes TKA Residence Life Unique?
Community That Cares
Christ-Centered Living
Preparation for the Next Steps
Life Beyond the Classroom
Residence Life at TKA is about more than academics; it’s about building meaningful connections and creating lasting memories. Students have the chance to participate in a wide variety of activities that foster teamwork, leadership, and personal growth. Weekend outings allow students to explore the natural beauty of East Tennessee, from hikes in the Smoky Mountains to community excursions and cultural trips. Service projects encourage students to give back and develop a heart for others. On-campus game nights, movie nights, and seasonal events provide opportunities for fun and friendship.
Through these experiences, students develop a strong sense of belonging within a supportive and caring community. Every activity, big or small, is designed to help students grow socially, emotionally, and spiritually, making Residence Life not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.
Students From Around the World, Together in Christ!
Discover Your Place at The King’s Academy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do international students fit into the school community?
International students are an important part of our school family. They bring cultural diversity to campus and study alongside American students, experiencing U.S. culture while also sharing their own. Every year, students from an average of 15 different countries attend our school, creating friendships that often last a lifetime.
Do international students feel welcome at TKA?
Yes. The family atmosphere at TKA helps international students feel like they have a home away from home. Our students, faculty, and staff are warm, supportive, and committed to making every student feel included.
What percentage of students are international?
International students make up about 15% of our high school population. This creates daily opportunities for English immersion and cultural exchange both inside and outside the classroom.
What activities can international students join?
International students are encouraged to get involved in fine arts, clubs, student government, and athletics. Many also step into leadership roles, helping shape campus life and traditions.
What support is available for international students?
Our school has welcomed international boarding students for over 80 years, so our faculty and staff deeply understand their needs. Students receive support from the guidance counselor, ESL teacher, and dorm staff. Resident life directors create a caring, structured environment that feels like family and provides both academic and personal support.
What is the ESL program like?
Our ESL program is designed for students with varying levels of English proficiency. Courses focus on conversation, vocabulary, grammar, composition, and reading. Strong English skills are essential for success since English is the primary language of instruction and daily life at TKA.
Do you accept students with limited English ability?
Yes. Because of our strong ESL program, we can accept students at different stages of English proficiency. We partner with each student to help them progress toward fluency and confidence in using English.
What is an I-20 and how do students get one?
An I-20 is a form required to apply for an F-1 Student Visa. Students who do not have immigrant, refugee, or permanent residency status in the U.S. will be issued an I-20 after enrollment is complete and a deposit of $5,000 is paid. For more details about student visas, visit travel.state.gov.