Janna Barrs
Contributor
Madison Creative Arts Academy (MCAA) prides itself on one core mission – the provision of a challenging liberal arts academic program for its K-8 students that develops individual student abilities while nurturing intellectual, moral, and physical growth. Dedication to this mission by staff, students, and community members created a firm foundation for the school to build upon. This strength of commitment enabled MCAA to maintain a school grade of “A” since its inception and recognition by the State of Florida as a High Performing Charter School.
The next chapter for this important community asset includes a new design-build 24,300 sf, single-story, 400+ student-station school with a 6,000 sq. ft. airnasium. Located on 10 acres, this new facility will house MCAA’s existing K-8 students and provide classroom space for the addition of two Pre-K classrooms. Along with increased student capacity, will come many improvements and upgrades.
The school’s existing facility was constructed during the ‘70s and ‘80s, which meant that there would be numerous challenges involved to bring the campus up to the modern standards expected by today’s parents and students.
The process began four years ago, with detailed parent and student surveys to determine the true needs and wishes of the community. The survey results were then used to inform the design and construction of the project as it moved forward.
The new campus is planned and designed with the highest level of safety and security in mind. The building design maintains separation between middle school and lower grades, and great emphasis was placed on making certain the designated bus area did not intersect with the auto drop-off area. The solution also resulted in better maintenance of traffic and enhanced lighted parking.
The new campus will also gain access to city water & sewer, which will promote more effective master planning efforts. The scope also includes a new lift station and the necessary piping to utilize the city’s treatment plant. Further, the rural location off Rocky Ford Road, in Madison, sets the stage for the expansion of MCAA’s agriculture programs.
With the assistance of Capital Resource Advisors, MCAA applied for secured USDA Rural Development financing through Madison County Community Bank, which is a testament to the planning work done by the board, school officials and the community. Despite new stringent rules adopted by the USDA, the project was approved. The loan is a critical component because it creates breathing room around the project where decisions and options can be considered to determine what best serves the community, now and in the future.
When Madison Creative Arts Academy’s Rocky Ford Road Campus opens in 2022, residents will gain both a cornerstone for higher learning and a gathering place for the community that supports future development of the campus.