Wednesday is the first day of school at Hope Hall in Gates.

The not-for-profit school for students with special learning needs is also opening the doors to its brand new high school wing for the first time.

The expansion project has been in the works for several months. Currently, the school only serves students in 3rd grade through 10th grade.

Board of Directors President Dorothy Pecoraro said with the high school expansion, they will be able to better serve those students.

"Our Mastery of Learning Program which was written by our director, Sister Diana Dolce, makes for a learning environment that's small and supportive so they get what they need to so that they learn a four step method on how to advocate for themselves how to study and make learning worth while and rejoice in doing a good job," says Pecoraro.

The expansion is being funded by a $4 million capital campaign.

Hope Hall