Raleigh, N.C. — While Wake County's public school system is struggling to balance dwindling budgets with students' needs, the county's largest private school is expanding.

This summer, Cardinal Gibbons High School in Raleigh began adding new buildings for fine arts and athletics, as well as a new wing of classroom space.

Principal Jason Curtis said Monday that the $15 million project reflects a growth in the number of students and programs.

"Even in tough economic times, you see parents truly committing to their children's education," he said.

When completed in August 2013, the renovations will allow the school to offer more programs during school and after school, Curtis said, and make it more competitive with other private schools in the area.

"It is a reflection of our priorities and our mission as a school," he said.

Cardinal Gibbons has 1,240 students. That number is expected to increase by about 80 over the next five years.

Approximately 500 students applied for 320 spots for the 2012-13 school year.

The annual tuition ranges from $9,000 to $12,000.