Fiscala fitness.

• Author: America, Mountain
• Position: SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

BACKGROUND When you first glance at the inside of a classroom at Spectrum Academy, it looks just like any other school. However, a closer look reveals some students sitting on large inflatable balls instead of chairs, while others may be fidgeting with special objects, wearing headphones or gazing intently into a special screen on their desks. These slight alterations are among the many learning accommodations that help Spectrum Academy's students focus on learning.

Spectrum Academy was established in 2006 as the first charter school in Utah dedicated solely to the academic, behavioral and social success of students on the autism spectrum. "Autism is a social disorder, not a learning disorder," said Brad Nelson, director of finance and development for Spectrum Academy. "Students with autism are capable oflearning; they simply need the tools to help them deal with the sensory distractions and behaviors that get in the way of the learning process."

Spectrum Academy is accredited for grades K-12 and classes consist of fewer than 15 students, a teacher and an aide. Therapists on staff include specialists in speech therapy, occupational therapy and behavior therapy. In addition to the core curricula, Spectrum Academy teachers spend up to an hour each day conducting interactive lessons to help students learn appropriate behavior in various social situations.

THE SITUATION

Spectrum Academy's North Salt Lake Campus enrolled 540 students during the 2013-2014 school year and had only 17 openings for the 2014-2015 school year, with a waiting list of more than 600. This led to the opening the Utah County campus in August 2014.

In partnership with Giza Development, Spectrum Academy identified a site in Pleasant Grove and established a tight, eight-month construction schedule to ensure the campus would open for the 2014-2015 school year.

Michael Wright, president of Giza Development, wanted a financial partner he could depend on for quick responses and flawless execution of loan documents and contractor draws. Based on his previous relationship with Mountain America Credit Union...