JACKSBORO, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF)- State Treasurer David H. Lillard, Jr. presented a check for $119,810 in Public School Construction and Maintenance funds to Campbell County Schools, providing targeted local support for needed school construction projects.

TOP PHOTO: Left to right- Jack Lynch, Randy Heatherly, Jamie Wheeler, David H. Lillard, Jr., Jeffrey Miller, Charlotte McCoy, Brandon Johnson

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.

Charlotte McCoy, Director of Campbell County Schools, expressed appreciation for the program and the support it will provide to their students and facilities. The money will help replace sidewalks at Lafollette Elementary School; replace fencing for additional security at Campbell County High School; and replace canopies for bus loading at Caryville Elementary, Valley View Elementary, Jellico Elementary, and Wynn Elementary Schools.

“I was not expecting this money, so it was just like Christmas,” McCoy said. “I am very appreciative of it, and I know my staff and the board members are. We were so excited because we have had a very, very tight budget for the last two years. We’ve had to cut. So, for us, $119,810 will mean a big difference for our school district. It will help keep children safe, and warm and dry, and those things are critical for our children.”

Local legislators praised the Public School Construction and Maintenance program and its impact on Tennessee’s public schools.

“Every child deserves to learn in a safe, well-maintained school, and these funds will help Campbell County make meaningful improvements that benefit students, teachers, and families,” said Senator Ken Yager, R-Kingston. “I’m grateful the General Assembly created this program to help local school systems address important needs without placing additional burdens on local taxpayers.”

“Supporting the next generation starts with ensuring our students have the resources and learning environments they need to thrive,” said State Rep. Dennis Powers, R-Jacksboro. “I’m incredibly grateful Campbell County Schools has received this funding to make important improvements that will benefit students for years to come. Thank you to everyone who made this investment possible.”

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.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-07/22/2026-6AM)

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