Dreamers Academy K-5

Unique K-5 Spanish immersion public charter school leverages innovative design-build approach

Gilbane, together with Wolfe Architects, Kimley-Horn, and Highmark School Development, delivered a state-of-the-art K-5 independent public charter school using an innovative design-build approach. Settled on a 5.4-acre greenfield site, this two-story, 43,000-square-foot institution aims to nurture bilingual, bi-literate, and cross-cultural leaders who will be fluent in English and Spanish by the time they reach fifth grade.

Project Overview

The Florida Development Finance Corporation financed this state-of-the-art educational campus through a state bond– the first time the FDFC has selected a new school for state bond financing
The stand-alone facility boasts a notable array of amenities, including 36 spacious classrooms, dedicated spaces for science, art, and music, administration offices, a fully equipped kitchen, a versatile dining/multi-purpose room, a high-tech media center, and additional support areas
The construction required an extension of county facilities in the right of way, starting from a connection point half a mile down the road
Incorporating cutting-edge construction techniques, the structure features exterior tilt-wall panels and a robust structural steel frame meeting Florida’s stringent hurricane requirements

“I recommend Gilbane’s team with extreme confidence for any one of your construction projects. Gilbane has been invaluable throughout the building process. From day 1, they have guided us in the relationship with the county’s various departments as we secure permits, pass inspections, and overcome many supply chain issues to keep our project on budget and on schedule. They have been able to save us money by rightsizing or innovating along the way at specific decision points, enabling us to reallocate those dollars to FF&E and find other solutions that we had not considered before.”
Geri Chaffe
Founder
Dreamers Academy