A new K-8 school has opened its doors in New Bedford, and the Executive Director of the Alma Del Mar Charter School is more than pleased to talk about it.

Will Gardner joined Townsquare Sunday this week to discuss the opening of the new Frederick Douglass Campus at 767 Church Street in the city's North End.

Gardner is now overseeing two Alma Del Mar campuses in New Bedford: the Douglass campus and the Ottiwell campus on Belleville Avenue.

He sad the new school currently has an enrollment of 500 scholars. In the fall, that number will increase to 594.

The project began in December 2019 when Alma purchased the four-acre site. The land was cleared in the Spring and Summer of 2020 and construction began shortly after.

Officials say the new school has a total of 51,800 square feet and includes three levels with the lower level containing the front lobby, cafeteria, and unique "learning stairs." Level two and three are home to 30 classrooms, a library and community room.

Gardner said the building also includes two giant murals of famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass done by local artists Fitzcarmel LaMarre and Brian Tillett.

Gardner added that the Alma Del Mar community will be hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony later this month. His interview can be heard here:

Townsquare Sunday is a weekly public affairs program heard every Sunday morning on 1420 WBSM. The program highlights  individuals and organizations working to make Greater New Bedford a better place to live.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please e-mail the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.

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