November 18, 2025
New Hanover County’s Board of Commissioners and Board of Education unanimously agreed to pursue a $320.5 million school bond — the most ambitious school investment since 2014. The proposal heads to the Local Government Commission before appearing on the November 2026 ballot.
PreK Matters
Two new elementary schools — Pine Valley and Riverlights — will be built to NC Pre-K standards. Older district buildings can’t support early childhood programs, leaving more than 300 students on a preschool waitlist.
New Hanover High School: A Long Game
Phase I funds a new dining hall, classrooms, and perimeter security — the first step in a four-phase, $230 million overhaul. “There’s not a period after Phase I,” said Superintendent Barnes. “There’s a comma.” Commissioner Stephanie Walker echoed the urgency, calling on The Endowment to help fund future phases of the 100-year-old school.
Voter Support Is There
School Board Member Pat Bradford, who led the bond committee, noted a Chamber survey found 70% of respondents already support the bond — before full project details were released.
Read the full story →New Hanover County commissioners and school board members agree to $320.5 million bond
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