The new Davie County High School on Farmington Road is really taking shape, and last week, school officials took another step toward the fall 2017 opening.

They held a “topping out” ceremony, signifying the last piece of steel was being erected. Davie residents were invited to come out to sign that last piece of steel, and hundreds of them did just that.

Many stayed for a quick tour of the school, which still is mostly buildings with bare walls.

The good news, according to Davie Schools Superintendent Dr. Darrin Hartness, the project is on time and on budget.

Unlike many of the last pieces of steel, this one will be exposed for people to see as they enter the new school.

“Isn’t it a great day to be in Davie County. This is the future home of the War Eagles,” Hartness said.

Steel contractor Brad Lagle of Davie County maneuvered the piece of steel into place, with an American flag flying in the breeze.

“We’re a step closer to opening a new Davie County High School,” Hartness said. He went through a list of people and groups responsible for the new school, and for the construction.

“There are so many people who have given of their God-given talents. They work together as a team to make this a special place,” Hartness said. “This is an incredible project.”

Board of Education Chair Chad Fuller asked for applause for Hartness, who guided the schools through a successful bond referendum and now through construction.

“Today marks a milestone,” Fuller said. “This new high school will provide an ideal learning environment. This has been a community-wide project in the truest sense.”

“We are seeing what can happen when a community comes together,” Hartness said. “I can’t wait for the staff to make this the new home of the Davie County High School War Eagles.”