Stepping Stone School opened the doors to its newest campus on Monday, Oct. 3, to the delight of its students and parents alike.

Children were seen at Thursday’s open house event excitedly exploring their new school, its play areas and classrooms. Many, even, were reluctant to leave.

That excitement carried over to opening day. One parent, Karen Barry, said of her son, “It usually takes a while for him to get going in the morning, but not today. He popped right up and said, ‘I’m going to my new school today!'”

The school, previously located at Dell Children’s Medical Center, is the new permanent home for Stepping Stone School 17. The campus at 1007 E. 40th St., features an open layout, an outdoor sensory area, age-appropriate playgrounds and a location convenient to Central Austin.