Laurel County Public Schools is pleased to announce the opening of two new auxiliary gymnasiums located on the campuses of North Laurel High School and South Laurel High School.
The project originated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the district identified the need for additional indoor space to support physical distancing and instructional flexibility. The construction was largely funded through the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER), which earmarked funding for school facilities, equipment, and COVID-19 mitigation efforts. The district broke ground in the Fall of 2024.
While both facilities share the same prefabricated exterior design, each interior was customized to meet the unique needs of its respective campus. Administrators and staff collaborated closely with architects and contractors to design interior spaces that align with the distinct needs of each campus's student body and extracurricular programs.
"These auxiliary gymnasiums represent a strategic investment in both immediate safety and long-term utility," said Tharon Hurley, Deputy Superintendent. "While born out of a critical safety need during the pandemic, these facilities now transition into permanent, dynamic spaces that will serve our athletic teams, fine arts programs, and general student population for years to come."
Each facility features full-sized basketball and volleyball courts that can be partitioned into smaller practice zones, as well as indoor turf fields for baseball, softball, football, and soccer practice. Equipped with retractable batting cage netting and divider curtains, the gymnasiums can also accommodate archery, cheerleading, weight training, and golf-simulation equipment, as well as dedicated home and visitor locker rooms and athletic training quarters.
Beyond athletics, the facilities provide flexible space for band and fine arts rehearsals and were designed with future expansion in mind. With minimal modifications, the buildings can also serve as additional instructional or cafeteria space and function as emergency shelter and reunification sites, ensuring they remain valuable assets to the district for decades to come.
The completion of the auxiliary gymnasiums reflects the Laurel County Public Schools' commitment to maximizing federal funding opportunities while creating lasting facilities that enhance student learning, extracurricular opportunities, and campus safety. The SLHS auxiliary gymnasium will be open to the public for viewing on Monday, July 27th, from 5:30-7:30. The public viewing of the NLHS gymnasium will be held on Aug. 7, from 4:00-7:00 PM.
Laurel County Board of Education
718 North Main Street, London, Kentucky 40741
Telephone: (606) 862-4600 Fax: (606) 862-4601 Website: www.laurel.k12.ky.us
BOARD MEMBERS
Mike Garland • Brice Hicks • Tony Krahenbuhl • Jeff Lewis • Kevin Murray