High Desert Christian Academy working to transform former hospital into educational hub
PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- In recent months, High Desert Christian Academy staff and community partners have been blazing the trail and garnering community support to revitalize and transform the old Pioneer Memorial Hospital (AKA Hospital Hill) into an educational and community campus.
The non-denominational school changed its name to High Desert Christian Academy (HDCA) in 2015, and by 2023 HDCA was blessed to acquire the old Pioneer Memorial Hospital property as its new home.
With over 12 acres located at 1201 NE Elm Street in Prineville, the property includes approximately 92,000 square feet of usable building spaces including an emergency room, an operating room, and exam rooms – that could be perfect for career and trade educational space. The property neighbors the Prineville Police Department as well as residential neighborhoods.
The Educational Campus (The Hub) project has already received nearly 200 community member signatures, including support from the Crook County School District, Prineville City Council, Crook County Commissioners, Crook County Parks and Recreation, and others.
“The unique spirit of collaboration before us is like no other,” said Steve Forrester, Prineville City Manager. “We have the opportunity to transform our historic 1950 municipal hospital into an educational hub and empower the culture of our local workforce to thrive in Crook County and beyond,” he said.
“Our community members have vocalized so many positive ideas and ways to join with us in revitalizing the historic hospital property to address the community’s educational needs,” said Mandi Puckett, HDCA Community Relations Director. Some of those ideas include:
⦁ Career and trade school program space
⦁ Infant and child care, preschool and after-school care
⦁ K-12 dual enrollment options for students
⦁ A gymnasium, hitting cages, and ball fields
⦁ Activity and club meeting space
⦁ Workforce dormitories for trade school students and school staff
“Our first step was to hear from our community members and gather signatures. Currently we have been requesting formal support letters from our public agencies and civic groups. Next, we plan to put forth a proposal and apply for grants to bring this collaborative dream to a reality,” shared Maggie Hale, Principal of HDCA.
With the momentum growing for the Educational Campus (Hub), HDCA is encouraging citizens to sign the letter of community support and/or contribute financial support via the HDCA school office, the website hdchristianacademy.com, or by calling 541-416-0114.
“We are happy to arrange tours for the community to see the possibilities of what is to come at The Hub. The power this opportunity has in enhancing our community while maintaining our strong culture and value is beyond imaginable,” said Duane Porter, HDCA Board Director. H
HDCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit school and has served the Crook County community for over 30 years.
