NORTH AUGUSTA, SC — Aiken County Public School District (ACPSD) leaders, board members, and community supporters gathered Tuesday, December 16, to break ground on a $50 million renovation and expansion of North Augusta Middle School. The ceremony marked the beginning of a project that will modernize the historic campus, replacing aging infrastructure with state-of-the-art learning environments. This significant investment is made possible by the 2024 renewal of the one-cent sales tax, a measure approved by Aiken County voters last November.
Originally built in 1954 as North Augusta High School, the campus has undergone several transformations over the decades, transitioning to a junior high in 1969 and a middle school in 1986. While a 2010 addition brought modern science labs and a new cafeteria, much of the campus remained tethered to its mid-century roots, leading to challenges with outdated HVAC systems, flooding walkways, and limited ventilation. Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy noted that for too long, the campus has felt like "half of a beautiful school." He emphasized that the project is about more than just structural repairs; it is about reimagining the educational experience
The new facility will feature a clearly defined, secure front entrance, modern mechanical and electrical systems, and flexible, well-lit classrooms designed for collaboration. The design also includes centralized administrative suites, improved circulation, and specialized areas for athletics, performing arts, and exploratory learning. Furthermore, new outdoor learning spaces will be integrated to extend instruction beyond the classroom walls. North Augusta Middle School Principal Terra Van Der Linden shared the enthusiasm of her staff and students during the ceremony, stating, "This is such an incredibly exciting day for the entire North Augusta Middle School community. Our students and teachers have worked hard in a building that hasn't always matched their level of excellence."
There was certainly a “buzz” of excitement as the Jacket’s mascot and NAMS cheerleaders joined in to give a hand during the ceremonial first dig. Distinguished guests in attendance included City of North Augusta Mayor Briton Williams, State Representative Bill Hixon, several members of the Area Two Advisory Council, and North Augusta Chamber President Terra Carroll. They were joined by Mr. Colen Lindell, School Board member, District Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy, Dr. Yarborough, Chief Operating Officer of Operations and Student Services, and many others to help mark the milestone.
In many ways, the project will literally turn the school around, making what was once the back of the campus the new front. Even the relatively newer parts of the current building will be integrated into a cohesive, unified campus that finally feels whole. As the shovels hit the dirt, the ceremony closed with a shared sense of anticipation for a modern campus that will finally match the high energy and bright futures of its students. With construction now officially underway, the North Augusta community eagerly looks forward to watching this new chapter for the Jackets grow from the ground up.
