Little Rock, Ark. – Pulaski Heights Middle School officially dedicated its gymnasium Tuesday as the Coach Ramona McGee Gymnasium, marking a historic first for the Little Rock School District (LRSD). McGee, who has spent 30 years coaching girls’ basketball and volleyball across Pulaski Heights and Horace Mann middle schools, is the district’s first female coach to have a facility named in her honor.
Coach McGee’s legacy of winning and character
During her tenure, the district credits McGee with an impressive 20 volleyball championships, 35 basketball championships and 15 undefeated seasons. Her former players recall not only the trophies but the personal mentorship that extended far beyond the court.
“She was so fun and so personable. We still stay in touch to this day. It’s been 15 years,” said former volleyball player Katherine McKenna. McKenna remembered McGee encouraging her to try volleyball despite never having played before, cheering her from the sidelines during her first game and continuing to support her throughout life.
Emphasis on academics and life skills
McGee stresses that athletics are secondary to academic achievement. “I stress academics to all my student‑athletes because it’s very, very important that you get those academics in line, and then the athletics is second,” she explained.
Pulaski Heights principal Darryl Powell echoed that sentiment, noting that the championship banners in the gym reflect only part of McGee’s impact. “Coach McGee didn’t simply build winning teams. She helped build young people who were prepared to win in life,” Powell said.
From Hope to Little Rock – a lifelong commitment to youth
Born in Hope, Arkansas, McGee played college basketball at Philander Smith College, an experience she says shaped her desire to give back through teaching and coaching. After three decades in the district, she now serves as head girls’ basketball coach at Little Rock Southwest High School.
“I’ve enjoyed my 30 years of teaching and coaching in the Little Rock School District, and this is not the end for Coach McGee. The best is yet to come,” she said, expressing gratitude and optimism for the future.
Community celebration
The dedication ceremony drew students, parents, alumni and district leaders, all gathered to honor a coach whose influence has touched generations. The newly named gym will serve as a daily reminder to students of the values of hard work, faith, family and personal liberty that McGee embodies.
As the district looks ahead, McGee’s legacy sets a benchmark for future coaches, especially women, who aspire to lead and inspire in Arkansas schools.
Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.
