Knox County Schools has appointed Rebecca “Becky” Wuethrich to serve as Interim Chief of Security, effective November 1, 2024.
Ms. Wuethrich currently serves as Manager of Discipline and Investigations for KCS and will be replacing Jason Periard, who is stepping down to take a position in the private sector. KCS will conduct a national search for his replacement, led by the district’s Talent Acquisition Department.
“Becky Wuethrich is a veteran member of the KCS team whose work experience and long-standing relationships with our law enforcement partners and school security officers will make for a seamless transition as we prepare to launch a national search for the next leader of our Security Department,” Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk said. “Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a high standard of excellence and an unwavering commitment to keeping students and staff safe.”
“I take very seriously the importance of the responsibility I’ve been charged with. I have built my career working shoulder-to-shoulder with law enforcement,” Wuethrich said. “I know our school security officers and have had the privilege of working side by side with them for years to protect and preserve the safety of our students and I look forward to the opportunity to ensure a smooth transition as KCS works to identify the next Chief of Security.”
Wuethrich has nearly 40 years of experience within Knox County, beginning her career with the Metropolitan Planning Commission, Knox County Codes Administration, and Knox County Law Director’s Office. She joined KCS in 2011 to serve as Manager of Discipline and Investigations. She has been bonded through the Knox County Sheriff’s Office for more than 20 years and has participated in trainings from the FBI-LEEDA Command Leadership Institute, the Department of Children Services and many school campus safety sessions provided by KCS.
Dr. Rysewyk also expressed appreciation for Chief Periard’s leadership.
“Under Chief Periard’s leadership, our Security Department has grown in capacity and intentionality, and I want to thank him for his service to KCS and for his dedication to keeping our students and schools safe. We wish him well in his next endeavor.”
