Onslow County is situated on the eastern coast line of North Carolina and is the proud home of US Marine Corp Base Camp Lejeune which is the largest amphibious Marine base in the world covering 156,000 acres. Officially established in 1734, Onslow County encompasses over 767 square miles and has a population of over 150,000 people according to the 2006 US Census Bureau. The population reflects an increase of over 82% over the past 40 years. Named for President Andrew Jackson, our county seat of Jacksonville was incorporated in 1842. With our region's obvious growth, the Onslow County School system has had to anticipate and maintain this growth with adequate classroom space for our county's youth. Our 2009-10 student population is approximately 24,000 and we currently have 37 educational facilities which include 20 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, 7 high schools, 1 early childhood development center, and 1 alternative learning program. With the passage of a 90 million dollar bond referendum in 2005, the citizens of Onslow County recognized the need for expanded classroom space, enhanced technology, and the addition of two elementary school sites. Our newest school, Stateside Elementary School on Gum Branch Road, opened its doors in the Fall of 2009.