Cornerstone Covenant Church may soon become filled with crayons, brightly colored backpacks and finger paints as the Turlock Planning Commission will decide whether or not to allow a new private preschool to operate there.
On Thursday, the Planning Commission will consider approving a permit for the operation of a private Christian preschool Mondays through Fridays from approximately 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Cornerstone Covenant Church, located at 4105 Crowell Rd. According to city staff, the initial attendance is expected to be approximately 24 students, with a goal of ultimately having 40 students at full capacity.
The preschool, to be known as Cornerstone Christian Preschool, will be a Christ-centered child care facility that will enroll children ages three to five.
The addition of the preschool would not initially need any changes to the existing building, as the school would utilize the church's classrooms and office space, with outdoor activities taking place at the current playground. Over time, however, additional space may be needed as the school's business plan includes opening an infant/toddler room, additional preschool classrooms and an afterschool program for elementary students. The school owner also hopes to have its own building and expand into other towns in the area.
Although the church was approved for three buildings in 1999, including a fellowship hall, an educational building and a worship building, the church has only developed the fellowship hall to date. This building includes a multipurpose room for worship services and is surrounded by several classrooms for other church activities.
According to the preschool's business plan, four staff members will be working at the preschool once opened, including owner, director and administrator Amanda Gonzales, master teacher Edith Ruiz, and two open teaching positions. Cost of attendance will vary depending on the amount of days a student attends.
"My desire is to, first and foremost, serve the Lord," said Gonzales, who currently serves as the church's preschool and nursery director. "My dream is to open an incredible preschool. My goal is to serve the Lord by serving the community. I believe this is a huge outreach opportunity. I expect Cornerstone Christian Preschool to exemplify Christ's love to its families, students, employees and the community of Turlock."
The new preschool, although a private school, will strive to meet California education standards, says Gonzales.
"We will provide a loving and engaging environment in order for students to meet Kindergarten State Standards," said Gonzales. "The target customers are parents looking for more than just day care. We serve the parents looking for quality care and exceptional teaching."
On Thursday, the Turlock Planning Commission will also:
• Consider approving an addition of 1,200 square feet to an existing 2,400-square-foot warehouse building and the addition of a new parking lot and outdoor employee break area at 213 Center Street;
• Appeal the denial of a request made by Hall Equities Group, LLC. to remove a condition that provides an access point and access agreement with the property to the east of the proposed Monte Vista Crossings South project;
• Discuss whether a study is needed to amend the Turlock Municipal Code in regards to mobile food facilities;
• Receive an update on the status of the Avena Bella apartment project on Linwood Avenue.