An early childhood special education preschool has leased 10,000 square feet in the John Roberts Road office park in South Portland from J.B. Brown & Sons.
Founders and educators Nicole Heal and Ashley St. John said Skills for Life will have space at 9 Donald B. Dean Drive to serve 36 children ages three through five in a year-round, full-day program geared toward preparing for a successful transition to their community school.
“Our mission is to teach children with developmental disabilities the essential communication, social, adaptive and school readiness skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond,” St. John said.
“Utilizing evidence-based and compassionate-care practices, we’ll work with families to tailor interventions so each child can reach their full potential.”
St. John and Neal have a combined total of 34 years experience educating children with special needs. This will be the first facility the duo has owned and operated. They anticipate opening in early September 2026.
St. John said the location fits their needs due to its size, location, parking and the ability to install an outdoor play area. The property is being renovated now from its former use as an office for a title company to include multiple classrooms.
Baraldi Construction, based in Chelmsford, Mass., is the contractor on the project. Travis Nadeau with Auburn-based Platz Associates is the architect.
St. John noted that landlord J.B. Brown, based in Portland, “has been great to work with.” The firm was represented by Jennifer Small with Malone Commercial Brokers. Mac Simpson from Porta & Co. represented the new tenants.