State Treasurer David H. Lillard Jr. this week presented a check for $57,200 in Public School Construction and Maintenance funds to Scott County Schools, and $32,415 to Oneida Special School District, providing targeted local support for school construction projects.
The Public School Construction and Maintenance program was established by the Tennessee General Assembly to help public school systems address construction and maintenance needs.
Administered by the Tennessee Department of Treasury, the program provides annual funding awarded in priority order, depending on the amount available each fiscal year. Over $10.5 million in Public School Construction and Maintenance funds were awarded to school systems in Tennessee in FY25-26.
The money will help Scott County Schools with construction of a new playroom/gym facility at Huntsville Elementary School, and will assist Oneida Special School District with replacing outdated HVAC units.
“This means a lot to our district in terms of some infrastructure projects that we had going on, especially at Huntsville Elementary with the new gym, and being able to help bring down costs for our district, and provide the best services we can for our students,” said Marc Taylor, Director of Scott County Schools.
“We wouldn’t have been able to replace a lot of these outdated HVAC units had we not received this money from the Treasury Department,” said Kelly Posey-Chitwood, Interim Director of Oneida Special School District. “We’re in a building where a lot of our rooms do not have windows for us to have any airflow. When you get 25, 30 kids in a classroom, and you have to worry about the heating or air unit going down … that’s why this is a blessing. The students have a great learning environment as far as the temperature inside the room.”
The state legislators representing Scott County praised the Public School Construction and Maintenance program and its impact on Tennessee’s public schools.
“These projects represent smart investments in the future of our communities,” said Senator Ken Yager, R-Kingston. “Whether it’s providing students with improved facilities to learn and play, or replacing aging HVAC systems that keep classrooms safe and comfortable, this funding will have a lasting impact on Scott County and Oneida students.”
“I am thrilled to see these funds go to such deserving schools in our community,” said State Representative Kelly Keisling, R-Byrdstown. “The Public School Construction and Maintenance Program is a shining example of fiscal responsibility and our continued investments in public education. I’m grateful to the Treasurer and his team for their strong stewardship of these investments by the General Assembly.”
Treasurer Lillard emphasized the importance of Public School Construction and Maintenance funding in ensuring safe and effective learning environments across the state.
“Ensuring that Tennessee students learn in safe, modern, and well-maintained facilities is a priority we all share,” Treasurer Lillard said. “These funds help local school systems address real needs, and I’m grateful to our partners across the state who work every day to support Tennessee’s children.”
