Growing Demand Drives Neuse Charter School Expansion

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — Neuse Charter School broke ground March 9 on a new elementary school building, marking a major expansion for the public charter school that serves students from Johnston and surrounding counties.

The ceremony was held at the school’s campus on M. Durwood Stephenson Parkway in Smithfield, where school leaders, local officials and community members gathered to celebrate the start of construction.

The approximately 26,000-square-foot, two-story building will serve about 600 students in grades 1 through 5 when it opens. Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2027, allowing students to begin the 2027–28 academic year in the new facility.

Neuse Charter officials said the project represents a significant investment in the school’s continued growth and its long-term commitment to families in the region.

“This is an important milestone in the history of our school,” Superintendent Dr. Melissa Blackwell said during the ceremony. “It was made possible through the vision of the founders and the dedication of the families, staff, board members and community partners and owners to support a new charter school along the way.”

The expansion is being funded in part through a $7 million loan from U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development through its Community Facilities Loan Program.

Deputy Under Secretary Neal Robbins said the investment reflects the federal agency’s focus on strengthening rural communities.

“Strong rural schools are foundational to a strong nation,” Robbins said. “President Trump’s focus on rural investment and educational freedom allows communities to grow, parents to choose, and students to succeed.”

North Carolina Rural Development State Director Robert Hosford joined school leaders and community members for the groundbreaking ceremony.

“This expansion is about meeting the needs of students and educators here in Johnston County,” Hosford said. “Through USDA’s Community Facilities Loan Program we are providing affordable financing that allows communities to build the infrastructure they need to grow.”

The new facility will include 20 classrooms, administrative offices, restrooms and elevators.

Smithfield Mayor Andy Moore praised the school’s role in the community.

“Neuse Charter School is a very, very economical way to provide first-class education to our students,” Moore said.

Founded in 2006, Neuse Charter School has experienced steady enrollment growth. School leaders say the new elementary building will help meet increasing demand, reduce waitlists and provide a modern learning environment designed to support 21st-century instruction.