Corolla, North Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Water’s Edge Village School celebrated the grand opening of its new 4,000-square-foot facility in Corolla, NC, marking a significant milestone in its 14-year journey. The expanded infrastructure allows the school to cater to a greater number of students while maintaining a commitment to project-based learning. With current enrollment at 50 students, the school aims to provide uninterrupted educational opportunities for families who previously faced long commutes.
Corolla, N.C. – Water’s Edge Village School Celebrates Grand Opening of New 4,000-Square-Foot Facility After 14-Year Journey
The Water’s Edge Village School (WVES) opened its new facility on Tuesday, marking an essential milestone in its 14-year journey to provide an improved learning environment for students in Corolla, North Carolina. The new building, nearly 4,000 square feet, significantly surpasses the former schoolhouse that was under 1,000 square feet.
This expansion responds to a growing demand for educational services in the area, allowing the school to maintain its commitment to project-based learning, which emphasizes hands-on activities, outdoor education, and a low student-to-teacher ratio. By increasing their capacity, the school can avoid turning away students and provide uninterrupted educational opportunities, catering to the community’s needs.
Since its inception in 2012 as a K-6 public charter school, WVES has evolved to serve students up to eighth grade, with enrollment expanding from just 15 students to the current count of 50 students. The construction of the new facility was fueled by the necessity of local educational resources, as families faced lengthy commutes of at least three hours round trip to access public schools on the mainland.
The development of the new facility was initiated with a fundraising goal of $1.4 million; however, the target later increased to $2.1 million. Currently, approximately $250,000 is still needed to finish funding for the school. The Evans Family Fund at the Outer Banks Community Foundation has played a crucial role in this effort, contributing $300,000, marking the largest single grant in the foundation’s history.
Wayne Evans, a representative of the Evans Family Fund, emphasized the importance of this commitment to building a local educational facility through their significant charitable donations. As the community prepares for the next academic year, the school’s facilities are expected to be fully completed by April, offering a comprehensive educational environment designed to support student growth and potential.
Key Features of Water’s Edge Village School
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Space | 4,000 square feet |
| Previous Space | Less than 1,000 square feet |
| Initial Enrollment | 15 students |
| Current Enrollment | 50 students |
| Funding Goal | $2.1 million |
| Remaining Funds Needed | $250,000 |
| Construction Grant | $300,000 (Evans Family Fund) |
| Expected Completion | April 2024 |
Background Context
The establishment of Water’s Edge Village School emerged from a pressing need for a local educational option for families in Corolla facing inconvenient commutes. The initiative to build this new facility began in 2012, aiming to offer students a more spacious and effective learning atmosphere. With a focus on innovative, project-based learning methods, the school is dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging educational environment for all its students.
FAQ Section
What is Water’s Edge Village School?
Water’s Edge Village School is a public charter school located in Corolla, North Carolina, serving grades K-8 with an emphasis on project-based learning.
Why did the school need a new facility?
The previous facility was less than 1,000 square feet, limiting student capacity and educational opportunities. The new building provides an expanded space for learning activities.
When was the new school facility opened?
The new facility officially opened on Tuesday, marking the start of the school year in a new environment.
What is the total enrollment at WVES as of now?
The current enrollment at Water’s Edge Village School is 50 students.
How much funding is still needed for the new facility?
Approximately $250,000 is still needed to complete the funding for the new facility.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WTKR: Corolla School’s Grand Opening
- Wikipedia: Corolla, North Carolina
- The Coastland Times: Humpback Whale Display
- Google Search: Water’s Edge Village School
- Pilot Online: Obituary of William H. Crone
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
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