South Walton High School celebrated their long-awaited new 10 classroom addition with a ground-breaking ceremony on Tuesday, May 15, 2018!
The ceremony began with performances by an ensemble from the South Walton High School band, and the SWHS Cheerleaders. The National Anthem was performed by senior Logan Lawrence, followed by the leading of the Pledge of Allegiance by Greg Garrett, SGA President
SWHS Principal Dr. Alexis Tibbetts stated that the addition would serve to accomodate the incredible growth both in student enrollment, and in course offerings. Dr. Tibbetts thanked the Walton County School Board members, Superintendent Hughes and Mark Gardner for their diligence, support and patience during the long, and sometimes tenuous journey that led to the actual berginning of the construction project. Mark Gardner, WCSD Facilities Director, stated that there were some definite legislative obstacles getting approval of the project, and thanked his staff, Superintendent Hughes, and the School Board members for their determination and committment. Mr. Gardner indicated that December 23, 2018 is the expected target date for completion.
"Today will be the start of a brand new chapter for this campus...At the end of the day, we are all a united, growing and developing South Walton family" stated Sophomore Class President Pablo Robles as he addressed the attendees.
Other guest speakers included: Sydney Balfanz, SWHS STEM student; Mrs. Mary Bess Wilson, community representative; David Vencent, JRA Architects; Chris Sumner, Culpepper Construction, and Superintendent A. Russell Hughes.