Category Archives: Local News

Take a deeper dive with the Tennessee Aquarium this spring

Alison Pryor with the Tennessee Aquarium joins News 12’s Amelia Greer to talk about some exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences being offered this season. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – It’s spring break season and plenty of families are making their way to the Tennessee Aquarium to make new memories and have new interactive experiences. This season, the aquarium…MORE

A colorful spring break at the Creative Discovery Museum

Mackenzie Steele with the Creative Discovery Museum joins News 12’s Amelia Greer to get students excited for an exciting spring break. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Spring break is nearly here for Hamilton County Schools and the Creative Discovery Museum is continuing the learning with a fun filled camp. During the camp, kids will get to…MORE

The School Resource Development Institute Concludes Year-Long Program

The School Resource Development Institute recently concluded its year-long program at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center today. This was all about helping Hamilton County schools strengthen funding efforts. Teams from three schools worked together to create strategic funding plans. “It’s Woodmore Elementary, Redbank Middle School, and Ooltewah High School. One of our first sessions was…MORE

Wilcox Boulevard Bridge Undergoing Repairs to Expansion Joints

CHATTANOOGA,TN (WDEF) The Wilcox Boulevard bridge is getting repairs to its expansion joints. To ensure safety, one side of the bridge will close, while the other side stays open. C-DOT is urging drivers not to speed through the area as work crews will be on-site, and extra caution is needed. “Thankfully, it’s next Wednesday and…MORE

Bill that could allow Tennessee schools to not admit undocumented students advances

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF)- A bill that could impact the ability of undocumented immigrants to be admitted into Tennessee public schools is stirring controversy across the state. Proposed by Senator Bo Watson of Chattanooga, House Bill 793 would allow for schools to deny admission to undocumented students. Each school district would have to decide if they…MORE

Hamilton County Schools facing budget cuts; exceptional education jobs in jeopardy

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Could there be a cut to exceptional education in Hamilton County? It is possible because of the upcoming budget. Hamilton County Schools will have to make staff cuts after a COVID-era grant expired. That adds up to 30 million dollars. This could lead to teachers being transferred, teaching assistants being laid off…MORE

Golden Apple Award: Susan Glasheen, George R. Stuart Elementary School

CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) – The best teachers truly care about their students. That certainly describes Susan Glasheen. Her classroom at George R. Stuart Elementary in Cleveland is a very welcoming place. Students love her. Parents love her. That earned Ms. Glasheen this week’s Golden Apple Award. “You know she is a teacher who cares deeply…MORE

City’s Homelessness Fuels Safety Concerns

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – While serious crime in Chattanooga has declined, many residents still feel unsafe, a perception tied not just to crime, but to the city’s growing homelessness crisis and lack of affordable housing. A Manhattan Institute report explores why public sentiment doesn’t match reality and what steps can be taken to address both…MORE

Marion County authorities searching for aggravated assault suspect

Marion County authorities searching for aggravated assault suspect

Billy Dewayne Massengale MARION COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) —  The Marion County Sheriff’s Department (MCSD) is searching for a man that has been charged with aggravated assault. MCSD released a wanted poster for 48-year-old Billy Dewayne Massengale. Massengale has currently been charged with Aggravated Assault and False Imprisonment. He is a white male, 6 feet tall,…MORE