Cooper Tacia Brings Delivers Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett Expansion

The Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett (SNS) is preparing to expand its campus with a new special education center designed to broaden its reach and serve more families across the community. The accredited institution provides education and therapeutic programming for students with all disabilities from age three to 22 and offers its Young Adults Learning Life Skills (YALLS) program for adults over 22.

With a waiting list topping 175 students, the 7,000-square-foot addition will add six classrooms for up to 60 students along with therapy rooms, faculty offices and community spaces. The expansion sits adjacent to the current building and reflects the school’s individualized approach, which includes in-house Applied Behavior Analysis, speech and occupational therapy, art and music therapy and daily physical fitness.

Construction is expected to begin next summer with opening planned for fall 2027. SNS has raised more than $1.8 million toward its $4.5 million campaign goal and continues active fundraising. More information is available at specialneedsschools.org/theywillgrow2.

“Our school is specialized and individualized and it is for any student who has been overlooked and underestimated,” says Executive Director & CEO Jamie Hamilton. “This upcoming expansion will allow us to welcome even more students while continuing to instill in each individual a lifelong love of learning.”

Cooper Tacia, a construction firm with a regional office in Atlanta, is supporting the project through donated services and construction costs. “We believe that building stronger communities starts with investing in the people who need it the most,” says CEO and founder John Cooper. “We’re honored to partner with the Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett to expand its opportunities, accessibility and impact.”

Foreman Seeley Fountain Architecture (FSF Architecture) is leading the design vision. “My goal was to create a simple functional and welcoming environment that feels modern and open with clear visibility throughout,” says lead design architect Nadine Nacy. “By prioritizing daylight openness and intuitive circulation the building fosters a safe engaging and inspiring environment for students and teachers alike.”

Additional partners include LBGM Associates, Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC, Coltman Farms and Coltman Farms Racing.