There are three school systems in Blount County: Alcoa City Schools, Blount County Schools, and Maryville City Schools. The three public school systems jointly received the State Department of Education's Governors A+ award for community commitment to excellence in education. Included in the school systems are 23 elementary and middle schools, 4 high schools, and 1 adult high school. Private schools and vocational schools also serve the area.

The public school term usually begins in early August and ends in May. A child must be five years of age to enroll in kindergarten and six years old to enter first grade (both ages as of September 20, in the year of matriculation). Enrollment requirements include legal proof of age, a physical examination, a dental exam, and inoculations against polio, tetanus, measles, diphtheria, and whooping cough.