The Chapel Hill High School campus is getting a state-of-the-art upgrade.
The Douglas County School System will hold a public open house May 11 from 6-8 p.m. to showcase Chapel Hill's new Academic Addition, which includes a new academic building that houses 18 classrooms, a 20-lane air rifle facility built for NJROTC competitive events, and an outdoor amphitheater space for large-group presentations, along with a newly renovated front entrance.
Superintendent Dr. Trent North, Board of Education Chair Glenn Easterwood and fellow board members, Principal Dr. Melisha Plummer and others look forward to welcoming Douglas County families for a close-up look at the new learning spaces.
"This Academic Addition marks a transformative moment for Chapel Hill High School and the entire Douglas County community," North said. "Modern learning spaces like this reflect our commitment to giving every student the environment they need to thrive. The Douglas County School System has always pursued excellence, and this addition ensures that pursuit continues for years to come."
Assistant Superintendent of Operations Dr. Christopher Small said the new academic building will replace seven mobile classroom units — totaling 14 classrooms — on the Chapel Hill campus.
"The new classroom addition at Chapel Hill High School offers students and teachers traditional classrooms and collaborative learning spaces," Small said. "Additionally, the NJROTC air rifle range features a state-of-the-art training and competition facility, enabling cadets to compete at a high level."
Four of the 18 new classrooms are non-traditional, multipurpose spaces, including a lecture hall 
that can be used for the school's Speech and Debate program and a circular classroom, Small said. The addition also includes an outdoor classroom with a whiteboard and the amphitheater space for larger groups.
Classrooms are equipped with flexible furniture, including desks adjustable for both left- and right-handed students.
Dedicated spaces in the atrium area support collaborative, student-centered learning, and an all-purpose room with high ceilings can be used for gymnastics and cheerleading, Small said. A covered corridor outside the new building provides a designated student drop-off area, improving traffic flow and offering direct access to both the building and the adjacent cafeteria.
Architect Nicole Hilton, a partner with Cole Hil, designed the space around a central atrium hub intended to foster connection, visibility and movement. The school's colors, logo and name are featured prominently throughout. Hilton said every space — from the most structured classroom to the most informal collaboration zone — is part of a "continuous learning landscape."
"Not only is it a state-of-the-art facility that will provide essential space for our growing student population, but it is also architecturally stunning," Plummer said. "I am excited for our community to experience our new NJROTC facilities. With a premier air rifle range and access to first-class equipment, we are opening doors for incredible program growth and expanded scholarship opportunities for our scholars. It is an exciting time to be a Chapel Hill Panther!"
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