New Day School Slated for Fall Opening

A new day school is coming to Lutz in Fall 2013.

Observant motorists may have noticed a coming soon sign at County Line Road and Livingston Avenue. This is the future home of Ecopia Day School, which bills itself as a small progressive school for children ages 1-and-a-half years old to 5 years old.

Reena Patel, a former elementary school teacher, is opening the facility with business partner Parita Patel, who used to work as a guidance counselor. Student tuition has still not been determined.

Reena said the property came with an incomplete 6,000-square-foot building that was supposed to be office space. Ecopia plans on adding another 6,000 square feet to create a large L-shaped building that can support 100 children.

“We are committed to stimulating inquiry through exploration, creativity, investigation and innovation to develop life long learners,” the school writes on its website.

There is a lot of meaning to the school’s moniker. The “eco” part comes from the eco-friendly approach to the school, with Reena pointing out plans for a playground that is sustainable and made from natural elements. The “pia” in the school name stands for primary independent academy.

Opening the center is a dream come true.

I’ve always loved working with children,” Reena said. “With teaching, I just wanted something I felt I could do to make a bigger impact on the kids. A good way to build community.”

More Information:

• http://ecopiadayschool.com/