Neely’s bend Elementary School was named for the Neely family which settled the area about 1780. Our community has undergone a metamorphosis from predominantly rural to suburban-urban lifestyles during its 151-year period. Because of the unique geographic location of the school in an area bounded on three sides by a “Bend” in the Cumberland River, change has come gradually. Children attending Neely’s Bend Elementary School represent families living in newer and older suburban developments as well as apartment complexes.

The first school for the children of Neely’s Bend was a one-room wood structure in existence by 1840. An interior wall was painted for a chalkboard and a wood stove heated the room. Teachers were responsible for cleaning, keeping up the grounds, and building.

The next school was a two-room structure in use in the 1920’s. Two teachers taught children in eight grades. The frame building was replaced by a modern brick building at Neely’s Bend Road and Hudson Road. It had three rooms and a hall to accommodate eight grades. Members of the PTA served hot meals on Fridays. Later, hot lunches became an everyday occurrence. PTA meetings often ended up with a square dance.

On January 4, 1954, the student body, led by the principal – Orville Earheart, walked along Neely’s Bend Road from the old Hudson Road to the present site, 1300 Neely’s Bend Road. This was the first year for the school’s new building. The new building had six classrooms, kitchen, cafetorium, library, office, clinic, and teacher’s lounge. Due to the growth of our community, ten new classrooms were added in 1964. In 1988, ten more classrooms were added. Now we have a wonderful new playroom with office space and student restrooms added to the existing building. Now it is time for another addition. Plans are currently in place for our faculty and students to vacate our present location during the 2006 winter break. Our building will be renovated for our return in fall 2007.

Building and School Grounds

Neely’s Bend Elementary School’s location makes it very much a part of our community. Located on the corner of School Pass and Neely’s Bend Road, the campus with its ball fields, basketball court, playground equipment, and walking track provides a great place for school and family activities. The grounds are used throughout the day and on into the evening. We strive to hard to maintain a clean and litter free campus.

As part of understanding and learning about our environment and along with volunteers, we plant trees, shrubs, and flowers. We welcome you to join us each spring as we team together to improve the grounds.

Our building will continue to be well kept by our responsible custodial staff. Plants, children’s artwork, bulletin boards, award boards, and classrooms make for an attractive and colorful learning environment.

Scout troops are welcome to use our building for their regularly scheduled meetings. Taking responsibility to maintain the premises is still the key to building use. However, proper authorization must be secured through the principal and the school system. Be sure to drop by for a visit.