Historic Partnership for Education in Hilton Head Island
In an exciting twist for residents of Hilton Head Island and the surrounding Bluffton community, Sea Pines Montessori Academy and Hilton Head Preparatory School have announced they will be joining forces to create a new educational powerhouse. The announcement, which sent waves of enthusiasm through the local community, revealed that this united institution will serve children from as young as 15 months all the way through 12th grade, marking a significant milestone in the area’s educational landscape.
A Unified Vision
According to the official news release from Hilton Head Prep, the newly combined school will continue to operate under the name Hilton Head Preparatory School. However, there will be a special focus with the launch of a unique, dedicated Montessori division named Sea Pines Montessori Academy at Hilton Head Preparatory School. This innovative division will cater to children aged 15 months up to third grade while maintaining offerings for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. This exciting partnership promises to offer an even more transformative educational experience for generations of families to come.
A Rich Educational History
The history of the two schools is as vibrant as the community itself. Established in 1965, Hilton Head Prep has been a cornerstone of learning on the island, thanks to the vision of Charles Fraser, who is also credited with founding the famous Sea Pines Resort. Following closely behind, his wife, Mary Fraser, founded Sea Pines Montessori Academy. For decades, these schools have been instrumental in shaping the lives of local families, laying a solid foundation of educational excellence.
With this groundbreaking partnership, the stars have aligned for a dual track program that offers a Montessori education through the third grade. Families will have the option to choose between traditional schooling or Montessori-based learning for their young learners, creating a more personalized educational journey that caters to each child’s unique strengths and preferences.
Seamless Transition Ahead
One of the best aspects of this merger is the physical proximity of the two campuses. As they are located right next to each other, the transition for children moving from Sea Pines Montessori to Hilton Head Prep will be a breeze. This means that students can smoothly continue their education without feeling lost in the shuffle.
Community Support Shines
Excitement is palpable among alumni and current members of both schools. Sam Bauer, an alumnus from 1984 and the current chair of the Hilton Head Prep Board of Trustees, expressed his joy, stating, “This partnership is truly historic, bringing together two institutions with deep roots in Hilton Head Island’s legacy.” He added that uniting the Fraser family’s educational vision under one umbrella will create a game-changing experience for families today and in the future.
A Bright Future
Co-chairs of the Sea Pines Montessori Board, Kelley Stearns and Sydney Hitchcock, also shared their enthusiasm for this collaboration. Stearns pointed out that uniting their strengths would provide “unparalleled educational pathways” for children as they journey toward high school graduation. Meanwhile, Hitchcock expressed eagerness over the enriched opportunities that will arise from integrating into Hilton Head Prep’s vibrant community.
Hilton Head Prep’s Head of School, Paul Horgan, will lead the new institution, stating, “This partnership is the culmination of a long-standing relationship between our schools.” Horgan is optimistic that combining efforts will enhance their mission to provide world-class education from toddlers to high school graduates.
Strategic Planning for Success
The merger aligns with Hilton Head Prep’s recently completed five-year strategic plan, which paves the way for a thoughtful and smooth transition. This plan ensures that the united educational vision will continue to serve the diverse needs of children and families in Hilton Head Island and beyond.
As the sun sets on this new beginning, one thing is clear: the future of education on Hilton Head Island is looking bright, and it promises to be an exciting journey for the children and their families in the community. Cheers to a phenomenal new chapter!
