Harbor Country Day School has opened a new three-story academic wing in St. James, the centerpiece of an ongoing $8.5 million renovation of its North Shore campus.

The 11,841-square-foot addition includes 11 new learning spaces, with classrooms for students in grades 5-8 and shared spaces for the entire school.

Among them are a library, STEAM center, music learning center, art studio, convocation hall and performance space.

“This is one of the most significant investments in Harbor’s nearly 70-year history,” said Garrett Bergen, vice chair of the school’s Board of Trustees and chair of its Buildings and Grounds Committee. “These new and upgraded spaces will allow us to expand our curriculum and create new opportunities for students, particularly in STEAM and the performing arts.”

The larger renovation project also includes an upgraded dining area, infrastructure improvements and an accessible elevator serving both the existing building and new wing.

The $8.5 million project was funded privately by current and former Harbor Country Day School families, alumni and trustees.