Southside Preparatory Academy opened its doors this week in Brickell, marking the debut of a state-of-the-art middle school combined with workforce housing for Miami-Dade County Public Schools employees.

"I think it's great, the classrooms of colors. It's very vibrant," said student Alexander Curkoski.

The school, located at 945 SW 3rd Ave., has capacity for 610 students and was completed this summer after years of planning, according to school officials.

"Now it's live, play and learn because there is an educational component. It's very unique. It's the first of it in the state. It's incredible," said Raul Perez, Miami-Dade County commissioner of facilities.

Above the classrooms, the project includes 10 one-bedroom studio apartments, offering staff a chance to live where they work.

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