SMSD Breaks Ground on New Early Childhood Education Center

Small shovels and big smiles helped mark an exciting moment for the Shawnee Mission School District. On May 14, students, families, staff, and community members gathered to break ground on a new state-of-the-art early childhood education center

Designed for the district’s littlest learners, the center will provide a space where 3- and 4-year-olds can explore, create, and build the foundation for future success.

“Today marks an exciting milestone for our district, our families, and our students,” Superintendent Dr. Michael Schumacher said. “This project represents so much more than a new building. It reflects our community’s commitment to giving every child a strong start.”

The project is made possible through the remaining bond authorization approved by Shawnee Mission voters in 2021 and through the district’s responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

Purposefully designed for young children, every part of the center will encourage movement, hands-on learning, and discovery. Students will have opportunities to learn, play, and grow in spaces created specifically for their developmental needs. The center will also bring together special education and general education classrooms in one inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

Inside, the building will feature a “Nature’s Wonderland” theme with calming colors, engaging textures, and cozy spaces that spark imagination and invite exploration.

Outside, play and learning spaces will include inclusive playground equipment, a trike path, gardens, walking trails, and open green space that can also be enjoyed by the surrounding neighborhood.

In addition to classrooms, the center will serve as a hub for Pre-K families by housing dedicated spaces for the Parents as Teachers program, audiology services, and conferences.

“Today is all about possibility,” said Board of Education President April Boyd-Noronha. “It’s about creating a place where children can ask questions, solve problems, discover who they are, and develop a lifelong love of learning with the support of caring educators.”

Principal Carla Heintz noted the facility represents the true beginning of many educational journeys. “We are creating a place where students will learn and grow side by side, build friendships, and discover from the very beginning that they belong to a caring community,” she shared.

Following remarks, members of the Board of Education and district leaders joined project partners from Hollis + Miller and Newkirk Novak for the ceremonial first dig.

The highlight of the event came just moments later, when a group of current Pre-K students grabbed their own play shovels to help turn the dirt.

Their participation and enthusiasm served as a reminder of why this work matters. It’s all Because Kids.

Construction of the center is officially underway, with the building expected to welcome students and families in 2027.