By Gene Galin
Siler City, NC – The Haw River Christian Academy (HRCA) has made a triumphant return to the golfing scene with the revival of its annual Golf Classic at the Siler City Country Club. After a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament aims to raise funds essential for the school’s programs and future expansion.
The Return of a Beloved Tradition
The Golf Classic, rebranded as the first annual event, marks a significant moment for HRCA, which has operated in Chatham County since 2008. The tournament, which previously ran until 2020, is back with renewed energy and purpose. Haw River Chrstian Academy’s Heather Baker expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, “We’re bringing back our old golf tournament and starting fresh at Siler City Country Club.”
The revenue generated from the tournament is crucial for HRCA’s annual fund, which supports various initiatives, including technology upgrades, sports uniforms, and extracurricular activities like Science Olympiad. Baker highlighted the importance of this fundraiser, especially for the school’s athletic programs, which include a newly introduced baseball team.
A Growing Institution
Haw River Christian Academy started with just eight students and two teachers in 2012, operating out of Rock Springs Baptist Church. Over the years, the school has seen remarkable growth, currently serving 176 students. This increase in enrollment has led to a pressing need for more space. “We’re running out of space,” Baker noted, mentioning that the school had to acquire a modular classroom to accommodate the growing student body.
Plans are underway for a new facility located on land just outside Pittsboro, with the goal of breaking ground in 2026. The first phase of construction will allow for an increase in capacity to 330 students, with subsequent phases including additional educational buildings, a gym, and a chapel. This expansion is vital for the school’s mission to provide quality education grounded in a biblical worldview.
Funding the Future
In addition to the Golf Classic, HRCA is actively pursuing a capital campaign to support the construction of the new facility. Currently, they have reached one-third of their fundraising goal and are seeking partners who share their vision for classical Christian education. “We are looking for philanthropic individuals who want to invest in our future,” Baker said.
For those interested in contributing, Baker provided contact information for Elizabeth Biggers. Potential donors can reach out via email at elizabeth.biggers@hawchristian.org or call the school directly at 919-533-4139.
A Personal Touch
Heather Baker has been with HRCA since 2012, serving in various roles before becoming the head of school in February 2024. Her dedication to the institution is palpable as she reflects on the joy of watching students thrive. “When you see a student who has struggled with a concept finally get it, that’s when you know you’re making a difference,” she shared.
The school fosters a family-like environment, with small class sizes that allow teachers to invest deeply in their students’ education. The community is actively involved, with parents and families participating in various school activities. Baker emphasized the importance of this connection, saying, “Our school is like a big family.”
Unique Programs and Opportunities
HRCA offers a variety of programs that set it apart from other educational institutions. One notable feature is the house system implemented in the upper school, where students from grades 7 through 12 are grouped together, promoting mentorship and camaraderie. This system encourages older students to guide their younger peers, fostering a sense of community.
Additionally, HRCA provides unique opportunities for its students, such as a summer trip to Greece and Italy for rising seniors, allowing them to experience history and culture firsthand.
Looking Ahead
The Golf Classic tournament is not just a fundraising event; it symbolizes the resilience and determination of HRCA to continue growing and providing quality education.
Next year’s tournament date has already been set for April 26, 2027, indicating the school’s commitment to making this event a staple in the community calendar. This year’s tournament was expected to host 84 golfers, utilizing 21 carts, with a kickoff time of 9 am.
As the Haw River Christian Academy looks to the future, it invites everyone in Chatham County to join in supporting its mission. Whether through participation in the tournament, donations to the capital campaign, or simply spreading the word, there are numerous ways to get involved.
For more information about Haw River Christian Academy, to learn about enrollment opportunities, or to contribute to the capital campaign, interested individuals can call 919-533-4139 or visit the school’s website at hawriverchristian.org. Together, the community can help HRCA continue to flourish and provide a nurturing environment for the next generation of students.
Haw River Christian Academy Revives Golf Classic to Fund School Programs and Future Expansion Plans
00:06 Haw River Christian Academy launches 2026 Golf Classic at Siler City Country Club.
- The tournament marks the return of a popular event that was paused in 2020 due to COVID-19.
- Revenue generated from the golf classic will support various programs at Haw River Christian Academy.
00:59 Tournament revenue supports annual fund and sports programs at the academy.
- Funds from the tournament enhance the budget for various programs, including science, technology, and sports.
- The event is crucial for funding school uniforms and supporting new sports like baseball, which debuted this year.
01:54 Haw River Christian Academy plans to expand due to increasing enrollment.
- Current facilities are overcrowded, necessitating the use of a modular classroom next year.
- A new facility on land outside the city is planned, aiming for phase one to accommodate 330 students.
02:50 Haw River Christian Academy is fundraising for new facilities and a capital campaign.
- The fundraising tournament is part of an annual effort to support new gym, educational building, and chapel construction.
- Currently at one-third of their capital campaign goal, they seek philanthropic partners who value classical Christian education.
03:48 Heather Baker discusses her long-term involvement with Haw River Christian Academy.
- She has been part of Haw River Christian Academy since 2012, starting as a teacher.
- Heather Baker has held various leadership roles, including upper school principal and head of school since February 2024.
04:48 The joy of teaching in a supportive, family-like school environment.
- Witnessing students grasp difficult concepts brings immense satisfaction and excitement.
- Graduates returning to engage and connect fosters a strong sense of community.
05:42 Haw River Academy fosters community and mentorship through small class sizes and unique programs.
- The school emphasizes small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention from invested teachers.
- Students from grades 7 to 12 engage in a house system, promoting relationships and mentorship opportunities among peers.
06:33 Plans for the next Haw River Christian Academy Golf Classic announced.
- Next year’s tournament is scheduled for April 26th, 2027.
- This year’s event features 21 golf carts and a total of 84 golfers participating.