By Dudley Evans –

Roane County residents recently gathered in light numbers for two public informational meetings concerning the future of the county’s school facilities.

Representatives from the MGT Group—hired by the Roane County School System to lead a comprehensive facilities study—hosted the sessions Monday and Tuesday evenings at Roane State Community College’s Harriman campus. The study aims to evaluate aging school infrastructure and prepare for anticipated student growth as more families move into the area.

While discussions about potentially consolidating Roane County high schools have circulated, officials emphasized that these meetings centered strictly on evaluating renovations and improvements for existing buildings. No votes were taken during the sessions, which were intended to inform the public and gather community input.

Ultimately, the Roane County Commission will hold the authority to approve funding for any future projects recommended by the completed study.