Hamilton County Schools, in partnership with the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga and Hamilton County Mayor’s Office, announced today an innovative community-based vision for the new Elementary School slated to serve the current DuPont, Alpine Crest, and Rivermont school zones.
This facility is scheduled to open in fall 2027.
The new school will be constructed on the same property as the newly renovated North River Family YMCA, with both facilities sharing a gymnasium. This unique partnership will offer expanded opportunities for students, staff, and families, including swim lessons, after-school activities, and summer camps.
“I am really excited about the possibilities this partnership opens for students and families,” said Dr.
Justin Robertson, Hamilton County Schools Superintendent. “Our goal throughout our work with facilities is to create new and innovative spaces that increase student learning and connection. As
we’ve talked with families and staff about combining the Alpine Crest, DuPont, and Rivermont school communities, one thing has been clear — they all value community engagement. I’m excited we get the opportunity to offer these communities something so unique and rooted in community
partnership.”
The partnership for this new school is inspired by existing YMCA partnership schools, such as Norton Commons Elementary in Jefferson County, Kentucky.
“Partnerships are at the heart of our Vision 2028 campaign, and this collaboration with Hamilton County Schools will allow us to expand our reach and open our doors to more than 10,000 students and their families each year,” said Baron Herdelin-Doherty, president and CEO of the YMCA of
Metropolitan Chattanooga. “Together, we are creating even greater impact for children, families and our community.”
The construction for the school is slated to start in the fall of 2026 and utilize $48 million from the previously issued facilities bond funding.
"In a groundbreaking partnership with the YMCA, we have an opportunity to set a new standard in public education that all parents can agree on: the pursuit of both academic excellence and physical health," said Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp. "This school represents more than a new
facility, it’s a vision for how a school campus can be a community hub seven days a week, serving students and families year round."
Hamilton County Schools announced the proposal for a new North River Elementary School at the site of the current DuPont Elementary School in August 2023. After community engagement and listening sessions, the Hamilton County Board of Education voted to move forward with the school
on November 21, 2024.
“This project makes me excited both personally and professionally,” said Joe Smith, Hamilton County Department of Education Board Chair. “As a board member, this school has been discussed for a long time, and I’m glad to see this school move forward in a way that will honor the wants and needs of this community. On a personal note and supporter of the YMCA, I look forward to
seeing how this partnership adds value to our students’ experiences and brings our families into the school, and continues to build on the sense of community that already exists.”