20 May Westminster Academy Breaks Ground on $7.5M Phase I of a Multi-Phase Campus Expansion
Pictured above: Chris and Sherry Clements, Capital Campaign Co-Chairs; Dr. Joel T. Satterly, Headmaster at Westminster Academy; Sarah Hajduk, Director of Development at Westminster Academy; George Barbar, School Board Chair at Westminster Academy; and Jim Rhinehart, Vice President and Principal at KAST Construction, turn dirt at Westminster Academy’s groundbreaking for Phase I of construction.
Westminster Academy and KAST Construction broke ground on the $7.5 million Phase I of a multi-phase campus expansion, marking the launch of a broader master plan designed to support the school’s long-term vision for expanded academic, athletic, and student-centered spaces.
Phase I will deliver a new aquatic complex featuring a 25-meter competition pool, dive well, training pool, and athletic pavilion, along with locker rooms, shaded spectator areas, and key infrastructure improvements. Construction is scheduled to begin in the weeks ahead, with completion anticipated in August 2027.
Combined with the school’s recent land acquisition and long-term master site plan, the initiative represents a $20 million investment in the future of Westminster Academy.
“This is an exciting project because it’s something the school community will be able to use and benefit from right away,” said Jim Rhinehart, Vice President and Principal at KAST Construction. “It’s especially meaningful to be part of a project that supports the school’s long-term vision. Our team is focused on managing the work with care and coordination while maintaining the best possible environment for the school community throughout construction.”
The expansion follows the school’s recent acquisition of the adjacent property, enabling future academic, athletic, and early childhood facilities as part of the broader campus plan.
The groundbreaking brought together school leadership, donors, students, families, and community leaders. Attendees included former Florida State Representative George Moraitis; former Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Heather Moraitis; Sean Ouellette, President and COO of KAST Construction; Jim Rhinehart, Vice President and Principal at KAST Construction; Dr. Joel T. Satterly, Headmaster at Westminster Academy; George Barbar, School Board Chair at Westminster Academy; and Chris and Sherry Clements, Capital Campaign Co-Chairs.
Dr. Satterly shared, “Today is not about turning a shovel. That is something to help us remember. Today is really about legacy. Remembering and celebrating those who have gone before us to make this day possible.”
The project reflects strong early support from the Westminster Academy community, including more than $3 million raised in 45 days through contributions from alumni, parents, and stakeholders.
About KAST Construction
KAST Construction is one of Florida’s largest privately held construction management firms, delivering high-quality projects across condominium, multifamily, hospitality, office, civic, education, and transportation sectors. With offices in West Palm Beach, Miami, and Tampa, KAST Construction is consistently ranked by Fortune magazine as one of the “Best Places to Work” in construction. With a diverse portfolio of iconic projects across the state, the firm is known for its unwavering commitment to excellence. Learn more at kastbuild.com.
About Westminster Academy
Westminster Academy is a Christ-centered, biblically-based college preparatory school in Fort Lauderdale, serving over 1,000 students in PreK 2 through 12th grade, that is dedicated to equipping covenant students to excel by using their gifts and talents for God’s glory. Learn more at wa.edu.