Miami-Dade leaders celebrate the grand opening of a groundbreaking K–8 school and affordable housing development that redefines community living in the heart of Brickell
A school and homes under one roof
On September 22, 2025, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins and Mayor Daniella Levine Cava joined community leaders for the ribbon-cutting of Southside Preparatory Academy, a first-of-its-kind project in Miami.
The seven-story building in Brickell is more than just a school—it’s a model of community-focused development. Housing both a state-of-the-art K–8 school for 937 students and 10 affordable apartments reserved for educators, the project directly addresses two of Miami’s most urgent needs: quality education and affordable housing.
“This project is proof of what happens when we dream big about our community,” Commissioner Higgins said. “We’re giving our teachers affordable homes, building a state-of-the-art school for hundreds of students, and creating a neighborhood where families can truly live, learn, and thrive.”
A model for Miami’s future
The county partnered with Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS), investing $2.5 million toward the housing portion and securing a 99-year, no-cost lease to ensure long-term affordability. The residential units are designed with sustainability in mind, featuring Energy Star-rated appliances, roll-in showers, and modern finishes—a nod to Miami’s commitment to inclusive and future-ready development.
This new approach is already transforming the urban core. Just steps away, Magnus Brickell has added a mix of workforce, affordable, and market-rate housing, welcoming working families and professionals to a community where transit, housing, and education are all within reach. Together, these projects are building a vibrant neighborhood where families not only live, but also thrive.
The opening of Southside Preparatory Academy marks a milestone in Miami's approach to growth. By combining education, housing, and accessibility, this project isn’t just about building; it’s about creating a blueprint for the kind of community Miami can and should become.
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