The first school in Finley was organized in 1848 and met in a log house. In 1914 a new brick building was erected and included grades first through eighth and a three year high school. In 1927 the high school was discontinued and the PTA organized. In 1930 a two year high school was begun but lasted only a few years. In 1942 a new building was erected and expansion of that building was done in 1947, 1953, 1964, 1965, and 1970. This structure is the present Finley Elementary School. In 1997-1998, Finley changed grade configuration from a kindergarten through eighth grade school to a kindergarten through fifth grade school. In 2000-2001, a preschool was added. Presently, Finley Elementary has preschool through fifth grade.

Finley Elementary is located in Dyer County, 4 miles west of Dyersburg on Route 104W.