Groundbreaking for The Bedford School's new facility took place Saturday with several hundred people in attendance.

Local government officials, school faculty and alumni gathered on the 46.7-acre site off Milam Road, just across the Fayette County line in Fulton County, to celebrate the first step in building a home for the school, which has leased space for 15 years in East Point.

Founded in 1985 by Betsy Box, The Bedford School is the only institution of its kind in the south metro area designed specifically to meet the needs of children with learning disabilities. Currently serving students in grades one through nine, Bedford plans to expand its services to include a high school and preschool based on the availability of funds.

Boarding facilities are also in the plans, as many students travel long distances, or live with teachers during the school week in order to attend.

The first phase of construction will provide learning space for about 160 students, double the current capacity of the school.

For information about the school, phone Betsy Box at 404-669-2083. To help with funding this project, contact Linda Peeler, director of development.