Opelika City Schools begins construction on a major expansion of Fox Run School to accommodate growing enrollment, adding 31 classrooms and increasing capacity to 1,200 students. The project is a joint investment by the city and school system.
Opelika , Alabama – A significant milestone was reached today as ground was broken on a $40 million expansion project at Fox Run School . The ceremony, held on May 1st, 2026, marks the beginning of a transformative undertaking designed to accommodate the growing student population of Opelika City Schools.
Currently serving approximately 410 students across 28 classrooms, Fox Run School is poised to become a central hub for fifth and sixth-grade education within the city. The expansion will dramatically increase the school’s capacity, enabling it to accommodate up to 1,200 students in a total of 59 classrooms.
This substantial increase in space is a direct response to the projected population growth anticipated in Opelika over the next ten years, and the school system’s remarkable position as one of only sixteen in the state experiencing enrollment increases. The decision to move forward with the expansion was jointly approved in January by the Opelika City Council and the Opelika Board of Education, demonstrating a unified commitment to investing in the future of the community’s youth.
The project’s $40 million cost will be shared equally between the city’s cash reserves and those of the school system, highlighting a strong partnership between local government and educational institutions. Construction is slated to commence later this month and is expected to span approximately 14 months, with the ambitious goal of opening the expanded facility to students for the 2027-2028 school year.
This timeline ensures a smooth transition for all fifth and sixth-grade students, consolidating their learning environment at the Fox Run campus. The expansion isn’t merely about increasing capacity; it’s about creating a modern, supportive learning environment equipped to meet the evolving needs of students and educators. The new classrooms will be designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and academic excellence, ensuring that Opelika students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for success in the 21st century.
Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith underscored the strategic importance of the project, describing it as the ‘first phase of a smart, long-term plan. ’ He emphasized that the investment is a proactive measure to prepare the city for continued growth, ensuring that families choosing to live and raise children in Opelika will have access to exceptional educational facilities. Dr. Kevin Davis, Superintendent of Opelika City Schools, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the educational benefits of the expansion.
He stated that the increased space and modern facilities will provide teachers with the resources they need to effectively support their students and that the project, along with future planned building projects, will allow the school system to meet academic demands without disruption. Dr. Davis expressed gratitude for the city’s unwavering support and emphasized the shared commitment to providing a positive and enriching educational experience for all students and families.
The expansion of Fox Run School represents a significant investment in the future of Opelika, demonstrating a dedication to providing a thriving educational environment for generations to come. The project is a testament to the power of collaboration between local government and educational leaders, and it sets a positive precedent for future investments in the community’s infrastructure and educational resources.
The completion of this project will not only alleviate overcrowding but also enhance the overall quality of education offered to Opelika’s students, ensuring they are well-prepared to succeed in a rapidly changing world
Opelika Fox Run School Expansion Education Enrollment Growth School Construction
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