Charlotte, NC, August 13, 2025
News Summary
Charlotte Preparatory School will inaugurate a new 24,000-square-foot lower school building this month, following the destruction of the previous facility in a fire. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for Saturday, and classes are set to begin on August 20. The new building includes 11 classrooms tailored for grades K-4, enhanced safety features, and various student-centered spaces. The $13 million facility symbolizes resilience and a commitment to modern educational practices.
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte Preparatory School is set to open a new 24,000-square-foot lower school building this month, marking a significant milestone nearly two years after a devastating fire destroyed the previous structure. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new facility is scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m., with students preparing to move into their new classrooms for the first day of classes on August 20, 2025.
The previous lower school was lost in a fire that occurred in June 2023, which resulted in a total loss of the building and caused approximately $2.5 million in damages. More than 60 firefighters responded to the incident, and while there were no injuries reported, the cause of the fire remains under investigation, with foul play ruled out.
The new facility has been constructed at a cost of $13 million, surpassing the initial budget estimate of $11 million. This project was made possible through the school’s first capital campaign, which exceeded its fundraising goals, allowing for the completion of a state-of-the-art educational environment.
Facility Features
The new building will provide space for 11 classrooms, each spanning 950 square feet, specifically designed for grades K-4. This new location represents the first time that the entire lower school division will operate under one roof. The design incorporates several student-centered spaces, including areas for counseling and learning support, a collaborative faculty workspace, and a multi-use dining hall.
In line with contemporary educational philosophies, the building also features elements meant to enhance the learning experience. Large windows in each classroom and dedicated outdoor learning areas utilize natural materials, allowing for a connection to the environment. Enhanced safety and security measures are included in the new design to ensure the well-being of students and staff.
Impact of the 2023 Fire
Following the destruction of the previous facility, teachers adapted to the situation by holding classes in alternate locations within the remaining school buildings. Modular units were also brought in to accommodate students while the new lower school construction was underway. Additionally, the loss of the previous building included important historical items, such as yearbooks and lesson plans, which represented a 20-year accumulation of teaching materials.
School History
Charlotte Preparatory School, operational since 1971, originally started as Charlotte Montessori. In 1998, the school changed its name to reflect the addition of a middle school. The completion of the new lower school building is viewed as a celebration of the school’s history while simultaneously looking to the future.
The construction of the new building took 12 months to complete, and the head of school conveyed that the new facility emphasizes a future-oriented vision while honoring the institution’s past.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 24,000 square feet |
| Number of Classrooms | 11 classrooms, each 950 square feet |
| Cost | $13 million |
| Timeline for Construction | 12 months |
| Safety Features | Enhanced safety and security measures |
| Opening Date | August 20, 2025 |
FAQ
What is the purpose of the new lower school building at Charlotte Preparatory School?
The new building is designed to provide educational facilities for grades K-4, bringing the entire lower school division under one roof for the first time.
When will the new building officially open?
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m., and classes will begin in the new facility on August 20, 2025.
What led to the construction of the new building?
The previous lower school building was destroyed in a fire in June 2023, prompting the need for a new facility.
How has the school adapted since the fire?
Since the fire, classes have been held in alternate locations within the remaining school buildings, and modular units have been utilized during the construction of the new building.
What are some features of the new building?
The building includes large classrooms, dedicated areas for counseling and learning support, collaborative faculty workspaces, a multi-use dining hall, and outdoor learning areas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte Metro Area Sees Surge in Private K-12 Enrollment
FC Cincinnati Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Charlotte FC Match
Christian Staples Appointed President of Charlotte Alumni Chapter
Charlotte’s Business Alliance to Enhance Educational Support
Additional Resources
- Axios: Charlotte Prep School New Building Fire
- Charlotte Observer: Charlotte Prep News
- WSOC TV: New Charlotte Prep Building
- Google Search: Charlotte Preparatory School
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, 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 Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
