Holly & Smith Architects Celebrates Groundbreaking at John Curtis Christian School

On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, John Curtis Christian School celebrated a historic milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new building at its Upper School campus in River Ridge.

Designed by Holly & Smith Architects and constructed by RNGD Construction, the new facility will replace a campus building that was damaged during Hurricane Ida, while providing much-needed space for learning, fellowship, and school life as John Curtis continues to grow. The building will feature a dining hall with a full-service kitchen, classrooms and a multimedia learning space, and a Legacy Room honoring the history, traditions, and success of the school’s students. It will also include a Uniform and Spirit Shop, offices to support students, families, and visitors, and a welcoming lobby that provides a safe entry point to campus.

Outside, an outdoor courtyard with dining tables and a covered walkway will connect the new building to the existing campus, while additional parking and a designated drop-off and pickup driveway will improve daily traffic flow. The facility will also support athletics, providing space for team training, spirit groups such as cheer and dance, and campus-wide Patriots pep rallies.

Founded in 1962, John Curtis Christian School has long emphasized developing students through character, faith, and leadership. The new building represents an investment in meeting the evolving needs of its students while advancing the school’s mission of “Building Champions for Life.”

H/S is proud to partner with John Curtis Christian School on this project and grateful for the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of its Upper School campus. We look forward to seeing this facility serve generations of Patriots for years to come.

View renderings and learn more here.