In 2019, a dream came true when The Joy School purchased just under an acre of additional property on Portland Street adjacent to the School. Based on years of surveys and focus groups, Jackson & Ryan Architects helped us determine the best use for our short- and long-term needs. The most pressing needs were indoor eating, indoor recess and PE, a large gathering space, expanded space for art, an area for stage performances, and a new space dedicated to STEAM and makerspace work. It is a dream that had been a long time coming, and because of that, our capital campaign was aptly named Dream Big.

The Dream Big Campaign is funding the $17.5 million project. Currently, just over 14.1 million has been raised. The campaign’s goal. includes the purchase of the Portland property as well as the newly constructed 11,000-square-foot Dick and Mary Watt Activity Center, an expanded playground area, and additional parking. The new building provides it all! In addition, a modest renovation of the current Academic and Administration building has been completed, allowing for a private, dedicated nurse's office, two speech and language classrooms, faculty and collaborative staff spaces, and a 20% increase in enrollment. Harvey Construction completed the building in Summer 2023, and we opened the Dick and Mary Watt Activity Center in mid-August of 2023.

Please see below to learn more about the campaign, and together let’s start to DREAM BIG!

For more information or questions about the Dream Big Campaign, please contact Deborah Santantonio, Director of Development

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