The end of October saw two groundbreakings take place within a span of a few days. Local dignitaries and the Macon County Board of Education gathered for the ceremony to signify the construction of the new Franklin High School, and then they met again to note the move forward on additions and renovations to Highlands School.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter,” said Josh Lynch, school superintendent, who was the first speaker at the Oct. 23 Highlands School event. “Today, we stand on the brink of a transformation … innovative classroom spaces … middle school renovations. We will also unveil new Pre-K classrooms – vibrant, welcoming spaces – elements essential to early childhood education. Investing in its youngest students invests in Highlands’s future.”
Highlands School is one of only three kindergarten-through-12th grade schools in North Carolina; two of those are in Macon County, with the other being Nantahala School.
Earlier this fall, Todd Gibbs, Human Resources/Transportation/Grounds & Facilities/AD for Macon County Schools, provided a list of some aspects of the Highlands School project. The list includes two Pre-K classrooms, renovations to the middle school building, four new classrooms added to the middle school building, renovation and expansion of the media center, four new offices, and renovations to the CTE (Career and Technical Education) and technology labs.
School board member Hilary Wilkes explained at the groundbreaking that the first meeting of the Advanced Highlands Education Committee occurred six years ago to “address deficiencies [at Highlands School] … knowing that our county’s funds were stretched.”
She noted that fundraising began and the community was supportive. With financial help from the county but also donors, individuals, organizations, and grants, “we put our dollars to work, first acquiring new technology for Highlands’ students,” said Wilkes.
“Many folks have spent many hours making sure this project is done right the first time and is fiscally responsible,” she added. She thanked several individuals by name, including county commissioners, outgoing County Manager Derek Roland, the Macon County Board of Education, and more.
“Macon County and North Carolina are committed to Highlands School for the long-term,” said N.C. Senator Kevin Corbin, who wrapped up the list of speakers at the event.
The changes and additions to Highlands School are expected to be completed the fall 2025, according to Lynch.