CHARLOTTE – Dore Academy, Charlotte’s first school for children with attention deficit disorder and other learning disabilities, plans to move to a new facility that will triple the number of students it can serve.

The school will pay $2.5 million for a 58,000-square foot building and 6-acre property off of Billy Graham Parkway near Charlotte/Douglas International Airport. Currently located on Providence Road in south Charlotte, the school’s maximum enrollment numbers will jump from 90 to 250 students after the move.

“We are thrilled beyond measure,” said Roberta Smith, head of school. “Since our founding in 1978, our faculty and staff have come to school each day dedicated to serving the needs of our extraordinary children and families. The move to a larger facility in a more central location will allow us to expand our offerings in so many areas, all focused on crafting an experience that transcends school.”

Plans for the larger facility include:

• A gym that will be used for physical education classes and after-school activities. The school will also expand the number of sports teams offered beyond basketball, track and golf.

• A theater that will be used for drama and dance classes.

• A music room that will accommodate a full band/orchestra and choir, as well a current ensembles.

• A larger art room, equipped with a kiln that will allow students to create sculptures.

Dore students come from 21 cities and eight counties in North and South Carolina.