Darland partnered with BCDM architects and Omaha Public Schools to build a one-of-a-kind school for students with severe and profound special needs. J.P. Lord School was relocated from its former location at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's main campus to a new, specially designed school near 45th and Marinda Streets. 

The 45,000-square-foot school features handicap accessible hallways and classrooms, multi-sensory elements, a therapy pool and mobility devices throughout. The vision behind the school is so unique architects had a hard time finding comparable projects. "It is a marker of our city's culture that we are building a brand new school for these students," said Architect Bob Mabry.

J.P. Lord serves students ages 5 to 21, with varying educational and physical needs. Parents, staff members and special education experts were invited to weigh in on the final design. From the canopied drop-off lane to the 'sensory nooks' carved in the hallways, every element was thoughtfully chosen with the students' unique needs in mind. 

"This project features some state-of-the-art equipment," said Darland Project Manager John Maderak. "None of this would be possible without the generosity of the Omaha community."