Statesville Christian School planning new outdoor classroom and multi-use space

Posted on by Mike Fuhrman

BY KARISSA MILLER

If plans come together correctly, Statesville Christian School will begin the first phase of construction of a multi-use outdoor space by the end of October.

“I’m excited about what God has in store for the future of Statesville Christian,” Head of School Ben Hummel said.

Ben Hummel, head of Statesville Christian School, holds up an architectural drawing of the school’s new multi-use outdoor space.

Hummel, who is entering year two in his position, said that the school is able to dream of projects like this because of the efforts of the previous leadership and board members.

“Earlier this year, we were able to announce that we’re debt free. Being debt free has allowed us to move forward,” Hummel explained.

Construction of the outdoor space will take place in a couple of phases. The existing outdoor picnic table area and soccer fields will be converted into a multi-use space for outdoor learning, sporting events and school functions.

It will add some decking and hardscaping with concrete. There will also be some shaded areas because it is currently open to full sunlight.

The entrance, Hummel pointed out, would be redone and the dirt under the picnic tables will be replaced with cement.

“It’s an all-encompassing idea to enhance our outdoor space. It would even have an updated sports court, tree house, fire pit and outdoor stage. It’s trying to reimagine the space,” Hummel said.

Taking advantage of the pleasant weather that North Carolina residents get to experience almost all year long, Hummel wants to get kids outside.

The total cost of the project, he said, is about $700,000.

Statesville Christian is in the middle of its annual fundraising campaign.

“We’ve raised enough money to start the project. The goal between now and Christmas is to raise the rest of the money,” Hummel said.

Currently, the school has a matching program. A generous donor will match up to $150,000 in gifts.

“God has been good to us even coming out of a tough and challenging time with COVID-19. We’re in an even better position to carry out our mission,” Hummel said.

The mission of Statesville Christian School is to train students, in partnership with families, to think, live, love and lead as Christians through programs of academic excellence based upon a Biblical worldview.