Hilton Head Christian Academy Breaks Ground on New Building
HILTON HEAD, S.C. – On Tuesday, Hilton Head Christian Academy took a significant step forward by breaking ground on a new multi-million dollar building project. The school is investing $8 million to expand its facilities to accommodate the growth in student enrollment and to better serve the community.
Expanding Horizons
The academy’s leaders recognize that as the local community grows, so too must the school. Doug Langhals, the Head of School, explained that the academy’s transition from Hilton Head Island to Bluffton three years ago has proven beneficial. He noted that most of their students were coming from off the island.
“Demographic wise, the majority of our student body was coming from off-island, and so we decided to move out here where the student body was,” Langhals stated. Since the move, enrollment has increased by an impressive 65%, leading to overcrowding in their existing facilities.
Addressing Capacity Issues
As the school has reached capacity, leaders felt it was crucial to proceed with their master plan for expansion. Language articulated this necessity, stating, “We’re in the midst of growth, and we’re at a moment where we have filled up the building that we have. This high school building has always been a part of the master plan, but we’re in need of it just for space for students.”
What’s Inside the New Building?
The planned structure will be a sizable 16,500 square feet, and according to Rick Parrish, Director of Operations at Choate Construction, it will feature classrooms, lab rooms, and break rooms that will mirror the existing buildings on campus.
Students are optimistic about the new building, especially those who will benefit from its completion. Current 7th graders attended the groundbreaking ceremony, aware that they will be the first class to utilize the new facilities upon completion.
Students Share Their Excitement
Senior student Connor White shared his enthusiasm, recalling how the recent campus developments have transformed his learning experience. “This new building that we had about three years ago has revolutionized the way that I’ve been able to learn—whether that be in an open common space or in a classroom like usual,” White said.
He also expressed hope for future students, stating, “As our school grows and our world grows, I think these kids are going to grow up and they’re going to have all these new experiences.” White, along with many of his classmates, participated in a memorable moment at the groundbreaking ceremony by signing a beam that will be part of the new building.
Funding the Expansion
As for funding, the not-for-profit school has made remarkable progress, having raised over 75% of the necessary funds for the construction. The goal is to have the building ready for students by the fall of 2025.
A Positive Impact on the Community
The expansion effort at Hilton Head Christian Academy is a clear indication of the school’s commitment to meet the educational needs of the growing Lowcountry population. The new building promises not only to enhance the learning environment for current students but also to invite future generations to thrive in a well-equipped setting.
As the school continues its journey of growth, the community watches with excitement, eager to see the positive changes that lie ahead for students and families at Hilton Head Christian Academy.
