Christian school embarks on expansion

New building will give all elementary grades at Lake Worth Christian 2 classes.

As superintendent of Lake Worth Christian School, Jim Harwood knows the frustrations of having to turn elementary school students away because of a lack of space.

But with donations from the community, the school will start an expansion in November that is expected to make it possible for those students to enroll next year.

With the expansion, all grades would have two classrooms each.

The expansion was announced this month and the school has raised $1.2 million toward its $2.1 million goal. Donors can give money through the school’s Leaving a Legacy capital campaign. Already, six students have given money, which is rare, Harwood said. Usually he sees parents and outside people giving money, but having students donate says “a lot about our community and how the kids feel about it,” Harwood said.

Lake Worth Christian, which has been on High Ridge Road south of Hypoluxo Road since 1976, offers classes from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and has about 445 students.

This year, there are two kindergarten classes, but all the other elementary grades have only one class. From 6th to 12th grades, the school offers two classes each.

The first phase of the expansion will allow for more elementary classes. A new building will be built behind the standing elementary building. Harwood says it will be like “one flowing building.”

A multipurpose room with an auditorium, auxiliary gym and a music area are part of the second phase of expansion. And expand- Have a Boynton Beach issue you’d like to see The Post tackle, or a story idea? Contact Alex Seltzer at 561-820-4449 or ASeltzer@pbpost.com.

ing the athletic complex to include a weight room, locker rooms and a press box are part of the third phase.

Harwood said the expansion is necessary because interest in the school keeps growing. This past year, the graduating senior class was the largest yet at 52 students. He said the growing interest is because of the school’s “strong history.”

“I also think people are getting to know who we are here in Boynton Beach. Our school has thrived for many, many years. They realize we’re a great option and we have a very strong community here,” he said.