No. 5: New Elementary School (People's Choice: No. 5)

In 2024, the Burke County Board of Education committed to constructing a new elementary school in the Icard and Hildebran communities, thanks to a $42 million needs-based capital funds grant awarded in February by the Department of Public Instruction.

After months of discussion and debate, board members voted unanimously during their annual strategic planning session in May to accept the grant, which stipulates the funds be used exclusively for new construction rather than renovations.

The grant, funded by the N.C. Education Lottery, was celebrated during a ceremony on Feb. 9, when State Superintendent Catherine Truitt presented an oversized replica of the check to Superintendent Mike Swan and former Board Chairman Seth Hunt. Truitt emphasized the pressing need to replace the county’s aging schools, some of which date back to 1931 and 1955.

Despite the excitement surrounding the grant, the decision to move forward with a new school has faced pushback from some residents, particularly those in the Icard and Hildebran communities, who preferred renovations to existing schools.

However, board members confirmed that the grant’s guidelines allowed only for new construction. Hunt and other officials assured the community that the decision was made in the best interest of students’ future education and that input from parents and residents will be included as the project progresses.

The board has taken a significant step toward the project, approving in June a $1 million contract to purchase 43 acres off Huffman Avenue in Connelly Springs for the new school.

Financial Officer Keith Lawson acknowledged the challenges of finding suitable land but expressed optimism about the chosen location. Architects have begun preliminary designs and will continue their study to ensure the site meets all requirements.

Swan noted the fierce competition for the grant, with Burke County Public Schools vying against districts statewide for a share of the $250 million allocated from $1 billion in requests.

As plans move forward with funding in place and the commitment to address any overage costs through capital reserve funds, the new school is set to include modern facilities that enhance student learning and community engagement for years to come.