On July 16, Wharton-Smith joined Lake County Schools, district officials, and community partners to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the new Minneola Horizon Academy. See photos.
The $65 million, three-story school was designed by Zyscovich (now Stratus) and was funded entirely by impact fees. The school will serve students in grades K–8 with a STEAM-focused curriculum featuring pathways in coding, drones, and engineering. During the ceremony, Wharton-Smith presented the district with $750,000 in project savings and $16,000 to launch the school’s drone program.
“I am so grateful to the families, educators, district leaders, our construction and maintenance team, and our community partners,” said Principal Andrea Nelson. “Your support and commitment have built more than classrooms. You’ve built opportunity.”
“Schools are more than just buildings,” said Project Executive Jim Kleen. “They’re places where students’ futures begin. It’s been our privilege to help create a facility where students will learn, discover, and thrive for generations to come.”
Congratulations to the entire project team on delivering this future-focused learning space for Lake County students!
