News Summary
Irmo High School is undergoing a significant transformation with a new $50 million three-story wing, supported by a school bond from Lexington-Richland School District Five. Construction began in 2021 and is already 60% complete, with plans for over 50 classrooms and a new media center. Designs emphasize natural light and student involvement, promising an enriching educational experience. The project also includes potential new facilities like a cafeteria and business incubator, funded through strategic financial planning.
Exciting Times for Irmo as High School Expansion Takes Shape!
Irmo, we’re buzzing with excitement as our beloved Irmo High School pulls back the curtain on a stunning new expansion project that promises to transform the educational landscape! Thanks to a school bond approved by the folks at Lexington-Richland School District Five last November, plans are in full swing to build a brand new three-story wing that’s worth a whopping $50 million.
From Old to New: A Journey of Transformation
The expansion is set to replace a 60-year-old building that has seen better days. Construction kicked off back in 2021, and we’re thrilled to report that the new wing is approximately 60% complete and rising! School administrators and board members have already taken tours of the busy construction site, and plans are in place to wrap up this exciting project by late 2026. Think about it—new classrooms, a fresh environment, and a space that fits the needs of modern-day students!
What’s in Store?
This new facility will feature a jaw-dropping 120,000 square feet of space with over 50 classrooms dedicated to essential subjects like English, social studies, science, and math. No student will be left behind in this expansive learning hub! There are also plans for a new media center that is bound to be the heart and soul of student activities.
But wait, there’s more! School Superintendent Akil Ross shared that there might also be a chance to include a shiny new student center and cafeteria in this project, making it a true one-stop shop for learning and socializing. The original plan, which comprises a $240 million bond referendum, includes a special $30 million budget for a small business incubation center at Irmo High School—a fantastic opportunity for young entrepreneurs!
Funding the Future
Now, you might be wondering, how is this all getting funded? Well, a bit of clever financial planning means that money is coming from energy savings along with some federal coronavirus relief funds. So far, around $39.5 million has already been invested into this incredible project.
A Glimpse of the Design
The architectural firm LS3P is behind the stylish design, and they’ve focused heavily on incorporating natural light into the new building. With large windows planned, students will bask in the sunlight while they learn! This building has been designed to reflect the heart and spirit of Irmo High School, complete with branding highlights including a special “history wall” that pays tribute to the school’s storied past.
Involving the Students
One of the most exciting facets of this expansion is that students are having a real say in the design! This means that their needs are being taken to heart, and there will be comfortable spaces for them to socialize, study, and collaborate with their peers.
The Construction Crew is Hard at Work!
Currently, around 70 workers are hard at it on-site, ensuring that classes can continue in the adjoining building without a hitch. With the construction managed by EdCon and Brownstone, the project is being handled with the utmost care and expertise.
A Bright Future Ahead
This project is split into four phases, which will include the cafeteria and student center, a business incubator, and improvements to the west wing of the current building. The end result? An enhanced educational environment and culture that is sure to delight both students and teachers alike.
So, there you have it! Exciting times ahead for Irmo High School. Keep your eyes peeled and your spirits high!
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Additional Resources
- The State
- MSN News
- ABC Columbia
- Lexington Chronicle
- WIS TV
- Wikipedia: School Building
- Google Search: Irmo High School expansion
- Google Scholar: Irmo High School renovations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education Facilities
- Google News: Irmo High School renovation
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
