Hamilton County commits $2 million to new McConnell Elementary gym

HAMLTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) —  McConnell Elementary is getting closer to having a new gym facility.

Hamilton County has committed $2 million toward building a new multi-purpose gym.

The Hamilton County Mayor’s Office says McConnell Elementary has operated without a dedicated space for indoor physical education, assemblies, performances, and schoolwide gatherings.

“This is more than a building—it’s a long overdue investment in the students, teachers, and families of McConnell Elementary.  Every elementary parent I know agrees that the more their student moves during the day, the better. This new facility will further advance the already excellent educational experience at McConnell.” 

-Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp

The physical education teacher at McConnell, Laura Hensley, has long advocated for this facility, and has expressed her gratitude for the investment:

“I’m incredibly excited and grateful to the County for investing in a much-needed gym for our students at McConnell Elementary.  This space will not only provide meaningful experiences for my P.E. classes, but will also serve as a valuable resource for our entire school and community.” 

The Hamilton County Board of Education will vote on the approval of this funding on July 17, 2025.