Hampstead Hill Academy Celebrates Expansion

Hampstead Hill Academy (HHA) marked a milestone on Wednesday, April 9th, with the grand opening of its state-of-the-art Newstead Gym, a project developed through resilience, collaboration, and community spirit. The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together students, educators, donors, and local leaders to celebrate the 9,545-square-foot facility, which features a gymnasium, an additional classroom, and updated restrooms.

Principal Matt Hornbeck kicked off the festivities with heartfelt remarks, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of the past year. “Trying to teach and learn while 1,000 students navigated a full year of construction was… an adventure,” he said with a smile. “Picture a math lesson competing with a jackhammer, or a quiet reading moment punctuated by the beep-beep-beep of a reversing forklift. But if there’s one thing our Hampstead Hill community has proven, it’s that we can do hard things—with grace, patience, and even a little humor.”

The event featured speeches from distinguished guests (from right to left), including Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson, President of the Baltimore Curriculum Project Laura Doherty, Public Schools CEO Dr. Sonja Santelises, former HHA parent Mike Palmer, Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen, and State Comptroller Brooke Lierman.

Principal Hornbeck expressed gratitude to the many partners who made the project possible. He also highlighted the critical role of former HHA parent Mike Palmer, calling him “the cornerstone of this project” for his tireless advocacy and problem-solving.

The celebration culminated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by basketball activities where students and adults took turns shooting hoops. As the scoreboard buzzer sounded, the gym erupted with cheers, symbolizing the joy and unity the new space will foster.

Principal Hornbeck closed with a call to action, announcing a fundraising effort to build a playground for PreK–4 students. “We need about $270,000 more to create a 5,000-square-foot play space,” he shared, urging attendees to contribute.

With the Newstead Gym now open, Hampstead Hill Academy looks forward to fostering wellness, teamwork, and community for years to come. “This gym is more than just a building—it’s a place where students will learn teamwork, build confidence, and strengthen their sense of community,” said Matt Hornbeck, Principal of HHA. “It’s a game-changer for our school and neighborhood.”

HHA, located at 500 S. Linwood Ave., is a PreK through 8th grade Baltimore City public charter school. MORE INFO, To DONATE to the new playground project.

Story courtesy of Hampstead HIll Academy - April 29, 2025.