Eviction and Unusual Incidents at South Florida Preschool

In Pembroke Pines, Florida, a preschool operating under the auspices of Faith Presbyterian Church is grappling with a series of unsettling events amidst a legal battle. Avanda Academic Alliance, which took over the church’s school facilities two years ago, is now facing eviction due to unresolved maintenance issues.

Background of the Dispute

Daniel Grimm, the owner of Avanda Academic Alliance, claims that the initial relationship with the church was positive. However, tensions escalated when significant plumbing issues arose. “It would back up in here, would back up over there,” Grimm explained, indicating that these plumbing problems detrimentally affected the school environment.

Legal Proceedings and Financial Struggles

In light of ongoing plumbing issues, Avanda ceased rent payments, asserting their rights as tenants. This decision was followed by an eviction notice from the church in September. A recent court ruling mandated that Avanda pay over $30,000 within a brief timeframe, a sum Grimm states they cannot afford. “Twelve or 15 days to come up with $30,000-plus. We don’t have that kind of money,” Grimm remarked.

Bizarre Nighttime Activities

As the eviction proceedings intensified, strange occurrences were captured on the school’s surveillance cameras. Over multiple nights, individuals were seen wandering the hallways. One such incident featured a figure dressed in a red coat and another with their head covered in a pink cloth, engaging in unusual behavior. According to Grimm, one video depicted a person dragging themselves across the floor while playing music, reportedly for hours.

Physical Changes to the Property

On March 10, 2025, the situation became even more bizarre when new security measures were implemented at the school. All bathrooms were locked, and caution tape adorned several areas as a precaution. “Every single bathroom, the doorknobs, locked them, put the caution tape up,” Grimm stated, elucidating the stressful environment for both staff and students.

Legal Rights and Responsibilities

Claudia Barona, the church’s attorney, provided insight into the legal framework surrounding the situation. She emphasized that the lease agreement allows the landlord access to the property at any time, even while maintaining restrictions for the school outside of operational hours. Barona posited that the plumbing issues did not arise until after the eviction notice was issued, countering Grimm’s claims.

Health Department Intervention

Compounding the situation, Faith Presbyterian Church was cited by the Broward County Health Department due to sewage leaks indicating a failure to maintain their septic system. These reports raised serious health concerns about the church’s facilities.

The Future of Avanda Academic Alliance

Faced with mounting challenges, Grimm has decided to vacate the premises in search of a new location for his preschool. “That’s what we’re trying to figure out,” he confided. Efforts are underway to engage with parents and secure a suitable site free from the complications currently plaguing Avanda.

As the investigation continues, parents and staff alike hope for a swift resolution that allows Avanda Academic Alliance to reopen in a conducive environment, away from the unsettling events of recent months.