Hilton Head Christian Academy breaks ground on new multi-million dollar building

Hilton Head, SC

The Lowcountry school, Hilton Head Christian Academy, has broken ground on a new $8,000,000 building. Given the bourgeoning community around them, the school’s leaders announced the necessity to grow with it. Surprisingly, despite the Academy bearing the name of Hilton Head, the growth will occur off the island.

Meeting the Needs

Three years ago, the Hilton Head Christian Academy made a strategic move to Bluffton, having identified a need within the community. According to Doug Langhals, the Head of School, the majority of the student body was commuting from off-island, leading the management to decide upon relocating where most of their students resided.

Since the relocation, the school reported a 65% increase in enrolment, accommodating an increasing population. However, they have now reached full capacity. “We’re in the midst of growth and we’re at a moment where we have filled up the building that we have and 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,” explained Langhals.

The Future Class

During the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, the current seventh-grade students eagerly watched, knowing they would be the first class to attend high school in the new 16,500 sq ft building. “Construction will mirror the design of the other buildings on campus. It’s going to have classrooms, lab rooms, break rooms,” said Rick Parrish, the Director of Operations at Choate Construction.

Student’s Perspective

Excitement and anticipation of the new building was palpable amongst the student body. Connor White, a senior at Hilton Head Christian Academy, shared his thoughts. “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.” He further expressed enthusiasm for the incoming students, “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.”

Funding and Completion

The not-for-profit school has successfully raised over 75% of the nearly eight million dollars required for the project, determination set to welcome students in the new building by fall 2025.