HAMPSTEAD, NC – District leaders, local officials, and community members gathered today to break ground on the new K-8 school, a project designed to meet the growing needs of one of North Carolina's fastest-expanding regions.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held at the future site of the school, featured remarks from Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove, Board of Education Chair Don Hall, Pender County Commission Chair Brad George and representatives from Bordeaux Construction, the company tasked with bringing the state-of-the-art facility to life.
"This groundbreaking is more than just the start of construction—it's the beginning of a new chapter for Pender County Schools," said Dr. Brad Breedlove. "The expanded capacity and modern amenities of this new K-8 school will ensure that we are not only meeting the needs of our current students but are also prepared for the continued growth of our community."
The new school, which will serve up to 2,312 students, is the result of a strategic redesign approved by the Board of Education in May 2024. The redesign increased the school's total square footage by 24,000, allowing for 14 additional classrooms and a second-story addition to the middle school wing. This expansion was a direct response to the district's need for more middle school classroom space, as Pender County continues to see rapid population growth.
Board of Education Chair Don Hall highlighted the collaborative efforts that made this project possible. "Pictures and overhead videos don't do this site justice, but there is still a lot of work to be done and we're headed down the right path. We have a growing county and growing school system so this is a step in the right direction."
The redesign also addressed logistical considerations such as traffic management, ensuring that the school can efficiently handle the increased number of students and vehicles. Bordeaux Construction has confirmed that the expanded design remains within site capacity limits, and the project's core capacities have been carefully planned to ensure the smooth operation of the school once it opens.
With construction now underway, the new K-8 school is set to open its doors in the fall of 2027. This facility will not only provide a modern educational environment but will also play a crucial role in supporting the district's long-term growth and success.