BOONE — As the construction of the new Valle Crucis School nears completion, the Watauga County Board of Education and Watauga County Board of Commissioners are closely tracking progress to ensure a secure and orderly start to the 2025–2026 academic year.
H&M Construction maintains that the new school building will be ready for occupancy by Aug. 12. However, architectural partners at Clark Nexsen have raised concerns, suggesting that this timeline might be overly optimistic given the current pace of work and outstanding tasks. The first day of school for the upcoming academic year is scheduled for Aug. 18.
Watauga County Schools has developed contingency plans to provide in-person learning in a safe environment, should the new facility not be ready for immediate occupancy. These plans include utilizing Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute (CCC&TI), the Valle Crucis Conference Center (VCCC), and Holy Cross Episcopal Church as alternative instructional sites.
Superintendent Leslie Alexander emphasized the district's top priority. “Our No.1 priority is ensuring that students and staff return to a safe, fully functioning and welcoming environment,” Alexander stated. She expressed hope while also acknowledging the need for a realistic outlook on the construction schedule. The Superintendent also conveyed gratitude to the Valle Crucis Conference Center, Holy Cross Episcopal Church, and Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute for their readiness to host students and staff again if needed.
Gary Childers, Chair of the Watauga County Board of Education, affirmed the community's excitement for the new school. Childers noted, “While we are disappointed in the uncertainty surrounding the construction timeline, we will not compromise when it comes to the safety and readiness of our schools.”
To meet the scheduled opening, several critical construction milestones must be achieved within the next ten days. These steps are crucial to ensure that all mechanical systems operate effectively and that the school successfully passes all required life safety and health inspections. Gaining approval for occupancy before Aug. 18 hinges on these essential inspections.
An official update for Valle Crucis families and staff is slated for Aug. 1. This communication will provide the latest information on the construction progress and outline definitive plans for the upcoming school year.
Braxton Eggers, Chair of the Watauga County Commission, highlighted the collaboration and commitment from education partners and the wider community. Eggers stated that the shared objective is to achieve a “successful, safe, stable start to the school year.”
The school district remains steadfast in its commitment to opening the new Valle Crucis School as soon as all inspections are completed and the facility is officially cleared for safe use. The dedication to ensuring a high-quality start to the school year for all Valle Crucis students remains unwavering, according to a press release from the school system.
