News Summary
The Light Academy in Miramar has been locked out just days into the school year due to a contract dispute with the city. Principal Dr. Cassandre Davis was informed that the school could no longer operate from Vizcaya Park, despite having executed a contract allowing its use. Parents and students are concerned about communication from city officials, as classes are now being held in a temporary location. Legal battles are underway as the school seeks resolution to the abrupt closure that has left families unsettled and uncertain about the future.
Miramar – The Light Academy, a private middle school located at 14200 Southwest 55th Street in Vizcaya Park, is facing potential closure just two days into its academic year after being locked out by city officials over a contract dispute. The school officially opened on a Monday with 12 enrolled students, but by the evening of its first day, Principal Dr. Cassandre Davis was informed by Miramar Police that the institution could no longer operate from the park.
At 3 PM on the first day of school, Davis received a call stating, “You cannot come back to the school tomorrow,” with no further explanation provided for the abrupt decision. The following morning, city officials blocked access to the park, leading concerned parents, students, and staff to demand answers at City Hall. The situation unfolded rapidly, leaving many in the community confused and distressed.
The Light Academy had executed a contract with the city in July, officially allowing it to operate in the park. However, an email from the city last Thursday announced the termination of this contract without a clear reason. Davis contends that there was a binding lease agreement signed by the city manager, assistant city manager, and legal representatives, but the school was subsequently informed that they could no longer use the facility.
Speculative concerns regarding restroom access between the public and students were suggested as a possible reason for the contract termination. Davis highlighted that the city had previously operated a summer program at the same location without any issue. However, city spokespeople have declined to comment further, stating that the matter is currently with their legal department.
The sudden closure has left families unsettled, as many are upset about the lack of communication from city officials regarding the situation. Parents have expressed frustration, noting that the abrupt halting of classes is detrimental to their children’s education. Students have also voiced their anxiety over the status of their school, eager to continue their learning while grappling with concerns about any wrongdoing that may have led to the sudden situation.
As of now, The Light Academy is utilizing a public library as a temporary location for classes. However, the city has instructed the school to remain closed until the ongoing legal dispute is resolved in court. Davis has indicated her intention to seek access to classrooms while pursuing litigation against the city, claiming that the city’s actions constitute a breach of contract.
Though a judge has denied the school’s request for an emergency injunction to continue operations at Vizcaya Park while the court case unfolds, Davis remains determined to challenge the city’s decision. The community is watching closely as the situation develops, hoping for a resolution that allows the school to reopen and provide education for its students.
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Additional Resources
- WSVN: Private Middle School in Miramar at Risk of Closing
- NBC Miami: Miramar Private School Demands Answers
- WSVN: The Light Academy in Miramar at Risk of Closing
- Local 10: City Locks Students Out of Miramar Private School
- NBC Miami: Search for Answers After Sudden Closure
- Wikipedia: Miramar
- Google Search: Miramar private school closure
- Google Scholar: Miramar school closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Miramar
- Google News: Miramar school news
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
