The King’s Academy celebrated its newest on-campus addition, the Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center, on Monday, Aug. 5 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event marked a significant milestone in the school’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young hearts and minds in a vibrant, engaging and thoughtfully designed environment.
The ceremony, attended by more than 100 supporters and guests, featured the official ribbon cutting by Frank DiMino and Wendy Balch, a representative of the Frank DiMino Foundation. DiMino’s generous contributions have been pivotal in bringing the facility to life, which will cater to the needs of children ages two to four.
“We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Frank DiMino and the Frank DiMino Foundation,” TKA President Randal Martin said. “His vision and extraordinary support have been the cornerstone of this project and have significantly contributed to the remarkable growth of the King’s Academy.”
Darren Bardell, executive director of the Frank DiMino Foundation spoke on behalf of the foundation.
“We are honored to be a part of developing an on-campus early childhood center at the King’s Academy,” Bardell said. “This gift represents our deep commitment to fostering the growth and development of young minds. We believe that providing a nurturing and enriching environment for early learners is essential for their future success and well-being. It is our hope that the Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center will not only lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning and help develop character, but also inspire a love of discovery and a sense of wonder in every child who walks through its doors.”
The Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center is a testament to DiMino’s commitment to impacting the next generation. His influence is evident throughout the campus with previous contributions, including the Frank DiMino Student Union, the Frank DiMino Science Center and the Frank DiMino Engineering & Technology Program of Distinction endowment. His foundation has also supported the school’s cheerleading teams and academics through generous matching gifts.
“It’s always a pleasure to see Mr. DiMino on campus,” Martin said. “His enthusiasm and dedication to our students are evident, whether he’s on the playground, joining in classroom activities or attending our various events.”
Supporters were recognized during the event. TKA parents Kris Wall, Allison Taylor, Margo Karos, Jed Dorsey and Rocco Mangel, along with alumni parents Brendan and Shay Cavanagh, and Ray Dorsey, were recognized for their contributions to beautifully furnished classrooms, creating warm and inviting spaces for the school’s youngest students to learn and grow. The Padron and Lima families of Padron Flooring were recognized for their donation of beautiful tile, which can be seen throughout the facility. Regal Paint was recognized for its generous donation of paint for the mural, adding a vibrant touch to the learning environment.
The project’s design team was in attendance, including Hedrick Brothers Construction, Simmons and White, Loveland Electric, Urban Design Kilday Studios and Randy Hansen of Interplan Architects. Christy Lungu, who works in the school’s development office, designed the beautiful interiors and engaging playground.
“Each of you has played a crucial role in making the Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center a reality,” Martin said. “Your support extends beyond these walls, touching the lives of our students, their families and the entire TKA community. We are profoundly grateful for your commitment and for investing in the future of our children.”
The Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center opened this month on the TKA campus and serves approximately 200 students. As an extension of TKA’s K-12 program, the early childhood program will provide the best in Christian early education for students in a safe, loving environment. The program is fully accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and licensed by the Florida Department of Health.
