York School District One celebrated a major milestone this Wednesday, breaking ground on the much-anticipated White Hill Middle School. Located along Highway 161 just east of the town of York, the new facility represents a massive step forward as the district adapts to the area’s ongoing population boom.
While the dirt is just now moving, this project is the result of a comprehensive Facilities and Demographics study that began back in the spring of 2020. Here is a closer look at the new school, how it is being funded, and what it means for the community’s future.
Fueled by the 2024 Bond Referendum
The new middle school is the centerpiece of a $90 million bond referendum approved by a majority of voters on November 5, 2024. The York School District One Board of Trustees officially approved the issuance of the bonds shortly after, on December 10, 2024.
While White Hill Middle School is the most visible result of the bond, the funds are driving district-wide improvements. The proceeds are specifically financing:
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A New Middle School: The construction and equipping of the White Hill facility.
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Early Childhood Expansion: The construction, expansion, and renovation of the Pinckney Street Learning Center/York One Academy to transform it into a dedicated early childhood center.
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Land Acquisition: The purchase of real property, including the 64-acre parcel on Highway 161 where the new school sits.
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District Upgrades: The renovation, expansion, and equipping of existing district facilities.
What’s in a Name? Meet the White Hill Wolves
District policy notes that naming a facility is a “matter of great importance… which deserves thoughtful attention from the board and the administration.”
After careful consideration, the Board of Trustees officially voted on the new school’s identity on February 10, 2026. When the doors open to students in 2027, it will do so with a deep connection to local heritage:
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The Name: White Hill Middle School honors the historic White Hill Church located nearby, paying tribute to the area’s roots.
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The Mascot: Students will proudly walk the halls as the Wolves.
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School Colors: The official colors will be red, black, white, and silver.
Addressing Future Growth and Challenges
For York School Superintendent Heath Branham, the groundbreaking is a “fulfilled dream.” However, district leaders are acutely aware that White Hill Middle School is just the first step in addressing the town of York’s rapid expansion.
A new elementary school will soon be necessary to keep pace with the influx of families moving to the area. Managing this growth has required navigating a few hurdles. In 2022, school leaders appealed to city and county officials to establish impact fees on new residential developments to help offset the costs of building new educational facilities, but the request was denied.
Despite those funding challenges, the district is actively studying and planning its next moves to ensure all students have the space they need to learn. For now, the community’s eyes are focused on the heavy machinery along Highway 161, as the future home of the Wolves finally takes shape.
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