Halifax school officials say Eastman K–8 rebuild on track for substantial completion July 29, 2026

Halifax County Schools Superintendent Dr. Eric Cunningham told the Board of Commissioners on Oct. 6 that construction of the new Eastman K–8 facility is in the finishing phase and estimated substantial completion on July 29, 2026.

Cunningham reviewed the multi‑year program: planning and design workshops began in 2019 after Eastman’s closure, the bond and needs‑based grant work accelerated the project in 2022, demolition and underground foundation work followed and the structure reached its topping‑out milestone before moving to interior finishes and systems work. He said the district has prioritized community engagement throughout the project, including classroom visits and a “Junior Contractors” program that brought fourth‑ and fifth‑grade students to the site for hands‑on learning.

The superintendent said the build schedule depends on the normal construction variables — contractor availability and supply scheduling — but that site work and framing are complete and crews are engaged in finishes. He noted the board and community will receive periodic updates on move‑in and transition planning.

Commissioners asked about timelines and schooling transitions; Cunningham said the district will post progress updates on the Halifax County Schools website page “Rebuilding Eastman” and continue school‑site learning opportunities tied to the project.

Ending

The school district continues to plan for occupancy and educational programming to align with the scheduled substantial completion next summer; no formal county action was taken.