Hilton Head Island High School Embarks on Extensive Renovation Project

Hilton Head Island High School Begins Major Renovation Project

Hilton Head Island, SC – On Wednesday, May 8, the Beaufort County School District (BCSD) held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of one of its largest and most ambitious projects: the redesign and renovation of Hilton Head Island High School. This extensive construction project is backed by funding from the district’s 2023 bond referendum and is expected to take about 4.5 years to complete.

Community Leaders Emphasize Importance of the Project

The ceremony featured speeches from several key figures, including Board of Education Chair Christina Gwozdz, Superintendent Frank Rodriguez, Principal Steve Schidrich, and even some students. Rodriguez highlighted the significance of this project, noting its long-term impact on the community and the academic needs of the students.

“This is an exciting time to stand here together on the threshold of a new era for Hilton Head Island High School—one filled with promise, potential, and endless opportunities,” declared Gwozdz, expressing optimism about the forthcoming changes.

Planning and Community Involvement

The journey toward this renovation started back during the school district’s 2019 bond referendum. At that time, the district decided that the funding from the referendum would be allocated toward the design of the high school project. In 2022, a detailed feasibility study was conducted to evaluate how renovations could take place while the school remained operational. The decision was made that keeping students in the building during construction would be the most efficient option for instructional activities.

This ambitious project saw the district partner with Little Diversified Architecture in 2023. The lead architect, Don Baus, and his team have since engaged with community members and the School Improvement Council to gather input and ideas for the new designs. As part of the planning process, the school district emphasized the importance of community involvement, which according to Robert Oetting, the district’s Chief Operations Officer, is crucial for the project’s success.

Planned Features of the Renovation

Hilton Head Island High School, which is the largest single-story school in the district, originally opened its doors in 1983. Although it has seen some expansions over the years, this renovation will be the most significant yet. The redesign will occur in two phases, and one of the most exciting changes is that the school will gain two additional stories, enhancing its overall capacity.

Phase one of the renovation will focus on adding a variety of new facilities, including more classrooms, science laboratories, a modern media center, administrative offices, special education classrooms, and other vital spaces for student learning.

The project’s phase two will introduce a new cafeteria intended to flow into a large courtyard, providing students with a space to gather and socialize.

Oversight and Community Engagement

The entire renovation will be monitored by the district’s Citizen-Led Oversight Committee, an independent group made up of volunteers who will ensure that the project remains on track as per the plans funded by the bond referendum. Community members can view more information and designs related to the remodel through the district’s dedicated online platform.

This new chapter for Hilton Head Island High School promises to transform the educational environment, making it more conducive to modern teaching and learning. With the input of community stakeholders and a solid plan in place, the school district is looking ahead with optimism as this major renovation unfolds.