Hilton Head Island Schools Set to Merge for Enhanced Learning Experience
On Hilton Head Island, two private schools are poised to unite, marking a significant shift in the local education landscape. Sea Pines Montessori Academy will officially merge with Hilton Head Preparatory School on the first school day of the new year, taking on Hilton Head Prep’s name, mascot, and leadership.
Who is involved?
The merger involves Hilton Head Preparatory School and Sea Pines Montessori Academy. This collaboration has been decades in the making, reflecting the intertwined histories of both institutions. Paul Horgan, the current Head of School at Hilton Head Prep, will lead the newly combined entity. Margot Brown, chief advancement officer for Hilton Head Prep and a dedicated member of the school for 20 years, emphasized the significance of the relationship between the two schools.
What is happening?
Sea Pines Montessori Academy will integrate its operations into Hilton Head Preparatory School, establishing a single educational institution that offers a comprehensive educational journey for children from 15 months through 12th grade. The merger will allow families to choose between two distinct educational tracks—Montessori and a traditional learning path—during the early grades, with both methods converging in the traditional curriculum beginning in fourth grade.
Where is this taking place?
This merger is occurring on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, where both schools are located in close proximity. Margot Brown noted that while standing on the Hilton Head Prep campus, she could easily reach out to touch one of the buildings belonging to Sea Pines Montessori.
When will the merger take effect?
The official merging of the two schools is set for the first school day of the 2024 academic year. This date represents a new beginning for students, parents, and faculty as they transition into an integrated educational environment.
Why is the merger happening?
The decision to merge stems not from financial difficulties of either school, as they have reported similar tuition prices, but rather from a desire to improve the overall academic experience for students. This strategic collaboration is intended to create more cohesive learning opportunities and streamline educational pathways between the institutions.
Background on the schools
Hilton Head Prep was established in 1965 by Charles Fraser, who also played a role in founding Sea Pines Academy, the precursor to Hilton Head Prep. Mary Fraser, Charles’ wife, founded Sea Pines Montessori Academy. The proximity and shared history of the two schools have made this merger a practical step in their evolution.
Currently, Hilton Head Prep enrolls approximately 460 students, while Sea Pines Montessori Academy has around 125 enrolled. Both schools are non-profit organizations committed to providing quality education to their students.
A Bright Future Ahead
With this merger, Hilton Head Prep will become the only school on Hilton Head Island offering education from preschool to 12th grade, allowing for a seamless transition for families as their children progress through school. The integration aims to enrich the educational foundation available to students and create a vibrant community of lifelong learners.
As the new school year approaches, students, parents, and faculty are encouraged to embrace the changes and look forward to the opportunities this union will bring.
