DAPHNE, Ala. — Bayside Academy’s new 17,720-square-foot, two-story learning center — which houses 16 third- through sixth-grade classrooms, along with two technology and science labs — on Tuesday was the focal point of a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The $3.8 million building holds $105,000 in technology run on a wireless network. Such items include four Smart boards, 16 LCD projectors, 16 sound systems, 20 mobile laptops and a weather station.

“Today we open a window of world-wide opportunity for our students,” Headmaster Tom Johnson said. “… The use of technology in the new building is only limited to our creativity.”

Mayor Fred Small agreed that the facility’s contents are state-of-the-art.

“What a great facility for these students to have,” he said.

The structure, located on Bayside’s bayfront property, offers a sweeping view of Mobile Bay.

“It’s our first building that we’ve ever really done that takes full advantage of our position on the bay,” Joe Sullivan, chairman of the board of trustees, said.

The building was funded through a five-year master site plan financed by individual and corporate gifts, according to Barbara Pate, Bayside’s director of development.

“To date, our capital campaign has raised $8.3 million,” she said.

The plan includes the learning center; renovation of Mitchell Hall, for first and second grades; a fine-arts center; a track; athletic seating; playground equipment; and additional parking, according to a media packet. All these projects have been completed, except for Mitchell Hall and the fine-arts center.

“This has really been a labor of love of so many people,” Sullivan said. “It’s the result of passion for this school and a belief in this school’s vision and mission.

“It’s our love for these students that made this building possible.”