Walk into Detention @ the Elementary, where excitement awaits. Gone are the rows of desks and stern expressions of teachers. In their place, chatter erupts from families and friends united in their pursuit of fun. The scent of freshly baked pizza and breaded chicken tenders drift from the kitchen, luring in hungry adventurers. You quickly notice laser tag warriors chanting their victories and air hockey champions high-fiving with excitement. The minute you get in line to purchase your armband or load up your gaming card for the day, you notice crowds disperse. Many run straight to the concessions, drawn in by the aroma of fresh food.
Detention, a family entertainment center, has transformed an old elementary school into an entertainment space for fun, laughter, and good times.
Bernadette Doud, proudly shared her connection to the place.
“I was born in Coffee County but went to school in Warren County. We were right on the line. I can throw a rock into Coffee County from the house I grew up in.”
Inspiration for the family entertainment center’s unique name was drawn from the school setting and paid homage to the building’s educational past.
The building, filled with personal history for Bernadette’s family, is situated in the very school where her aunt and uncle graduated. She even attended the elementary school after its conversion. The school, which started as a high school in the ‘40s and ‘50s, has seen generations pass through its halls.
Opening Detention was a collaborative effort between Bernadette and her husband and co-owner, Dwayne. The couple is seasoned in the entertainment and food industry.
Dwayne, a licensed general contractor, carried out most of the building’s construction with his team. They lovingly revamped the building to embrace its new life as a fun zone. The very same basketball court where her uncle’s graduating class once honed their skills years ago now houses a popular bounce house for birthday parties.
The couple’s combined expertise shines through in every aspect of Detention, from the lively arcade to the versatile banquet hall. Its spaciousness, enhanced by a stage and sound system, offers a welcoming space for memorable celebrations.
Host birthday parties for your little ones, gather friends and family for festive Christmas dinners, or plan elegant corporate events and retirement celebrations. This adventure retreat caters to all your family’s needs, offering an array of entertainment and diverse dining options.
When the arcade’s festivities wind down, guests can explore a different kind of adventure.
“We have three golf simulators. There are three different golf bays, and you can play over 300 courses from around the United States — some fictional, some not,” Bernadette explained.
Aside from gaming thrills, Detention entices taste buds with a restaurant committed to freshness. Its salad bar boasts hand-chopped iceberg lettuce, fresh spring mix, and spinach. Indulge in the signature hand-breaded fried chicken, available on Saturdays.
Every Thursday is Italian Night, featuring classic dishes like Alfredo, lasagna, and baked spaghetti. Fridays transform into Fiesta Fridays with mouthwatering taco options.
Whether you crave a quick bite or a full-fledged feast, Detention offers a delicious escape that caters to every taste bud.
Every venture has its setbacks, and Detention is no exception. From figuring out the menu to adapting to changing demands and supply chain disruptions, Detention perseveres through the daily ebbs and flows of business ownership.
The owners actively participate in community events, sponsor local sports team events, and contribute to fundraisers like Lemonade Day. As a member of Coffee and Warren County chambers, the center won an award from the Warren County Chamber of Commerce, showcasing its growing passion for impacting the community through entertainment.
Local schools also find the center to be a valuable resource for educational outings, popping in for a day of field trip fun.
The ultimate reward for Dwayne, Bernadette, and their team is witnessing the joy and satisfaction of their customers.
“It’s so rewarding to have these teachers come back and say, ‘This has been the best and easiest field trip that we have ever done. We enjoy coming here.’”
Parents gleefully express surprise at the quality of the delicious food. Detention has become a place where memories are made, smiles are abundant, and community spirit thrives.
Come see for yourself how a “labor of love” can transform a refurbished school building into an adventure zone, and discover what it means to be part of something bigger than a game. Detention awaits, ready to welcome you with open arms, warm smiles, and perhaps even a slice of pizza named after your old school. GN
