Previously Paradise Park, an educational play and discovery center and long-standing staple in the community, the existing building was a hub for family-friendly fun for all ages. The Lee’s Summit R-7 School District purchased the building, recognizing the endless opportunities for learning and district support around every corner. While the initial goal of the space is to host the district’s rapidly growing early childhood program, the team quickly identified other areas of the building to be adapted to meet the needs of the district, including conference rooms, district support services and career training opportunities for high-school-age students.

As an expansive two-story building, the first floor serves as the early childhood hub with open play areas and classrooms. Complete with a play kitchen and grocery store, both re-purposed from the existing building, students are immersed in hands-on learning and colorful, imaginative graphics integrated into the curriculum and based on Michael Rosen’s “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.” Upstairs, several district conference rooms can be found, along with the Before and After School Services program, and diagnostic testing. The outdoor site will be home to a new playground, environmental science discovery programs and field trip opportunities for all schools in the district. The multi-purpose building will continue to be a staple in the community, serving learners of all ages for years to come.