Grand Opening of East Lake Elementary School in Orangeburg County

News Summary

Orangeburg County School District has officially opened the East Lake Elementary School, a new state-of-the-art facility. This $46 million school will serve over 700 students from Holly Hill, St. James Gaillard, and Vance Providence elementary schools, making it the first complete elementary school built in the area in 70 years. The modern school features innovative learning spaces, including a STEM lab, spacious classrooms, and a gym. The community celebrates progress with this new landmark, bringing students together and paving the way for future developments.

Orangeburg County Celebrates the Grand Opening of East Lake Elementary School!

Holly Hill, S.C. is buzzing with excitement as the Orangeburg County School District officially cut the ribbon on the stunning new East Lake Elementary School! This brand-new, state-of-the-art facility will open its doors to students on Monday, welcoming kids from Holly Hill, St. James Gaillard, and Vance Providence elementary schools into an exceptional learning environment.

A Vision Turned Reality

This amazing school came with a price tag of $46 million, all made possible thanks to a recent $190 million bond referendum that voters backed in November 2022. It’s a huge step forward for the community, and East Lake Elementary School will accommodate over 700 eager young learners from Pre-K through 5th grade. In fact, it’s the very first complete elementary school built in the eastern part of Orangeburg County in seven long decades! Can you believe that?

Modern Facilities for Modern Learners

Spanning approximately 110,000 square feet, East Lake Elementary School is more than just a place to learn; it’s a hub of excitement and innovation! With features like a fully equipped STEM lab for budding scientists, cozy outdoor patios for fresh air breaks, and fantastic turf playgrounds for fun and games, students are set to soar in their educational journeys. Not to mention, the spacious gym is sure to be a hit, providing plenty of room for sports, classes, and community events.

But it gets even better! The modern classrooms come equipped with teacher suites that boast kitchenette-like amenities, including full-sized refrigerators. This means teachers have everything they need at their fingertips, making those busy school days a lot smoother!

Community Unity and Future Plans

The grand opening was a fantastic event attended by community members, future students, school district officials, and local council members, all combining their excitement for this new chapter. There’s a collective buzz not just about the facility itself, but about what it represents for the community—progress and unity among three older schools now consolidated into this cutting-edge establishment.

Another cool tidbit is that the old Holly Hill Elementary School will not just vanish into thin air. It’s slated for demolition to make way for a new parking lot and a parent drop-off loop for East Lake Elementary. Transitioning students will have their feet firmly grounded in fresh surroundings, with Holly Hill Elementary students starting on Monday and St. James Gaillard and Vance Providence students set to follow in the fall of 2025!

Local Impact and Future Developments

Interestingly, this transition also opens the door for new possibilities in the area, such as plans to turn the old St. James Gaillard Elementary School into a shiny new town hall and repurposing the Vance-Providence building, ensuring that the history of these schools will be preserved in the revitalization of the community.

The school’s mascot, the eagle, will serve as a powerful symbol, encouraging students to lift their wings high and strive to achieve their dreams. With bright, spacious rooms and unique learning opportunities, children will be excited to forge new friendships and embark on their educational journeys.

What Lies Ahead

As the doors of East Lake Elementary swing open, students, parents, and educators alike are brimming with anticipation for what this new educational landmark will bring. With modern facilities, a supportive community, and a clear vision for the future, the Orangeburg County School District is setting up its youngest citizens for success like never before. So, get ready, Holly Hill! The possibilities are endless, and the journey is just beginning!