Hilton Head Christian Academy Breaks Ground on New Building
In Hilton Head, South Carolina, excitement was in the air as Hilton Head Christian Academy officially broke ground on a new multi-million dollar building that will accommodate the growing number of students. On Tuesday, the school celebrated the start of construction on an impressive $8 million facility set to enhance educational opportunities for its students.
Responding to Community Needs
The school’s leaders explained that the decision to create this new building reflects not just the school’s vision but also a response to the community’s growth. For the past three years, Hilton Head Christian Academy has been operating in Bluffton after relocating from Hilton Head Island. Doug Langhals, the Head of School, mentioned, “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.”
Since the move, enrollment has shot up by an impressive 65%. However, with this growth comes the challenge of capacity. Langhals stated, “We’re in the midst of growth and we’re at a moment where we have filled up the building that we have,” highlighting the pressing need for additional space for students.
New Facilities on the Horizon
The planned building, spanning 16,500 square feet, will include classrooms, lab rooms, and break areas, all designed to foster a supportive learning environment. Rick Parrish, the Director of Operations at Choate Construction who is involved in the project, confirmed that the new structure will blend seamlessly with the existing campus.
A current seventh grader at the academy expressed his enthusiasm about the new building during the groundbreaking ceremony, eagerly anticipating the changes it will bring. “This new building that we had about three years ago has revolutionized the way that I’ve been able to learn,” noted Connor White, a senior at the academy. He emphasized the impact of the campus facilities on students’ learning experiences.
Looking to the Future
As students signed their names on a beam that will be integrated into the new structure, there was a sense of optimism for the future. Connor White added, “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.” This sentiment encapsulates the hopes of both students and staff for what the new building will mean for education at Hilton Head Christian Academy.
Fundraising and Completion Timeline
So far, the not-for-profit school has raised more than 75% of the funds needed for this project, with plans to complete the new building by the fall of 2025. This timeline points to a bright future not only for the school but also for the educational landscape in the Lowcountry region.
The groundbreaking ceremony served as a celebration of progress and potential, illustrating how the school is committed to adapting to the needs of its ever-growing student body. As Hilton Head Christian Academy embarks on this exciting new chapter, the local community eagerly anticipates the positive changes ahead.
