Carolina Forest, S.C. Welcomes New Educational Facility
Carolina Forest, S.C. is set to witness an exciting development in the realm of education as Coastal High School, a charter school in the Myrtle Beach area, has announced its plans for a new building. This project marks a significant step for the school, previously known as the Coastal Leadership Academy, as it transitions to a more spacious and enhanced educational environment.
What is Happening?
The school is scheduled to break ground on a new facility on December 7, 2024. The construction will take place on a nearly 110-acre site located off of River Oaks Drive. The new building aims to provide improved educational facilities while maintaining a small student body size. As stated by Principal Sherri Oskin, the school plans to accommodate a maximum of 520 students from across various attendance areas.
Why the Move?
The decision to relocate comes after receiving approval from the Horry County Council in June. The move is aimed at fostering growth and allowing for a unique educational experience enriched by nature. “The school is looking forward to its new location and the opportunity for growth that it will allow,” Oskin emphasized. The new site, which is close to the Intracoastal Waterway, is designed to promote outdoor education and environmental stewardship.
What’s Unique About the New Site?
One standout feature of the new property is its commitment to preserving natural habitats. The school intends to leave a significant portion of the land untouched, creating spaces where students can explore and learn outdoors. This initiative is supported by a partnership with the North Atlantic Land Trust, which aims to incorporate outdoor education into the school’s curriculum. The focus will be on working alongside environmentalists and ecologists to foster a deep understanding of ecology and sustainability among students.
Plans for Outdoor Activities
While the school is set to offer traditional academics, it plans to introduce a variety of unconventional sports and outdoor activities, including archery, paddleboarding, and rowing. “We want to participate in sports like they have at the Olympics,” Principal Oskin explained. This approach represents a shift towards a more experiential learning environment, allowing students to engage with their surroundings actively.
Timeline and Future Prospects
Construction of the new facility is expected to take approximately nine months, with plans to welcome students in grades 9-12 by Fall 2025. The leadership at Coastal High School is enthusiastic about the upcoming changes, which promise to enhance educational opportunities and inspire students through a curriculum rich in outdoor experiences.
As the school community prepares for this exciting transition, many look forward to seeing how the integration of nature and education will benefit students. This move not only represents a significant upgrade for Coastal High School but also reflects a broader commitment to innovative and environmentally conscious education.
