PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY OBION COUNTY SCHOOLS REGARDING REORGANIZATION DECISIONS

At a special-called meeting held this morning, the Obion County Board of Education voted to approve a  reorganization and restructuring plan for the Obion County School System, beginning with the 2025–2026 school  year. Board member Mr. Chris Akin made the motion, which passed with Board approval. The plan includes the  following actions: 

1. Black Oak Elementary Closure (Effective June 30, 2025): 

- Black Oak Elementary School will officially close on June 30, 2025. Students currently zoned for Black  Oak will be rezoned to either Hillcrest Elementary or Lake Road Elementary. 

2. Ridgemont Elementary Transition (Effective End of 2025–2026 School Year): 

- Ridgemont Elementary will close at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year. Beginning with the  2026–2027 school year, the facility will reopen as Obion County Middle School, serving students in  grades 6–8. 

- Pre-K through 5th grade students who currently attend Ridgemont will be rezoned to Hillcrest or Lake  Road Elementary. 

3. Future Restructuring Possibilities (Beginning 2026–2027): 

- To support long-term financial sustainability, additional reorganization, rezoning, or school closures  may be considered beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, if necessary for budgetary reasons. 

“We understand that this is a significant and emotional change for many of our families, staff, and community.  These decisions are never easy, but they are made with the long-term stability and success of our school system  in mind. We are committed to providing support to every student, family, and staff member throughout this  change. We will continue to focus on ensuring that every child continues to thrive in a safe, welcoming, and  high-quality learning environment.” – Tim Watkins, Director of Obion County Schools 

The Obion County Board of Education staff will make necessary contact with impacted families to provide  support, guidance, and information. Additional details and guidance regarding rezoning and student placement  will be provided to families in the coming weeks.