New elementary school opens in Glades County after 50 years

The Glades County School District is revealing a brand-new school for the first time in over 50 years. The district gave WINK News an exclusive look inside the new facility, set to welcome students, teachers, faculty and staff in January.

Moore Haven Elementary School has been the home of the Terriers since 1968. However, starting 2026, students will move to a new 92,000-square-foot, two-story school.

Alice Beth Barfield, the superintendent for the school district, shared her emotional connection to Moore Haven Elementary School.

"I was a student; I had Ms. Andrews in kindergarten," Barfield said. "It was a home for many of our community. It's been a staple for 57 years. And so, it is, this is very emotional for many people."

The new school features a cafetorium, library, playground, and dozens of classrooms. It's been in development since 2021, and received significant support from the state.

"Other districts, they're building 6, 7, 8 schools a year," said Barfield. "Like, this is the first school in 57 years, brand new school. And so we understand and we appreciate the state legislature who have really helped us, you know, get the funding because it was a $47 million, basically, gift."

The new school promises to be a lasting gift for future generations of students to come.

"For me? Being here? And then, seeing everything just perfect, it's like I know that the kids won't have to be in a building that doesn't match their potential," said Barfield.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is expected to be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday to officially open the doors to the new school in Moore Haven.