Construction of new Clayton High School begins with groundbreaking ceremony

CLAYTON, N.C. (WTVD) -- Construction for the new Clayton High School began Thursday.

The Johnston County Board of Education hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the beginning of the school's rebuild, attended by current students, alumni, school administrators, local officials, and members of the community.

"The rebuild of Clayton High School is a monumental investment in our students and our community," said Dr. David Pearce, Superintendent of JCPS. "This new facility will provide a modern, innovative learning environment designed to bolster academic excellence and support the growth and success of every student who walks through its doors. It represents a significant step forward in our continued pursuit of excellence across Johnston County Public Schools."

The project involves rebuilding the school at its current site, starting with a new 278,000-square-foot facility. The design includes a three-story academic wing and a two-story arts and athletics wing.

Gates Hale, Clayton High Senior Class President and a member of the 2025-2026 JCPS Superintendent Student Leader Cohort, spoke about the deeper meaning of the new building.

"This moment is so meaningful because it reminds us that a school isn't just bricks and walls, it's the people inside. It's the spirit, the pride, and the community, and that doesn't disappear when the building does," he said.

The new Clayton High is expected to be completed by December 2027, with the full campus ready for use in Fall 2028.