Board approves lease and move‑plan for North Campus to expand early‑learning and pre‑K programs

The Danville CCSD 118 board approved a plan to expand early learning and pre‑K services at the district’s North Campus (the former Carle Clinic). Director of Early Learning Chris Rice and Director of Operations Seth Oldfield presented a phased plan to relocate programs and create a birth‑to‑5 center as renovations continue.

Rice said the district began leasing the space last spring and used portions of it at no cost from Carle during renovations; the district has already transitioned Birth‑to‑3 staff and operations offices to the North Campus. If the plan moves forward, four half‑day pre‑K classrooms now at Southwest Elementary would relocate to the North Campus beginning with the 2025‑26 school year, serving approximately 60 students, while full‑day and special education classrooms would remain at other sites. Rice said the long‑term vision is a dedicated birth‑to‑5 center with up to roughly 500 students, space for vocational and life‑skills programming for older students, additional therapy/assessment rooms, and potential on‑site child care that could support recruitment.

Oldfield described the lease terms presented to the board as a 9‑year, 5‑month initial term that includes an option to purchase during the first term. He also said the district would assume facility maintenance and related expenses. Board members asked about rent and annual costs; presenters said Carle had provided temporary space at no cost this school year and that additional lease and rent details will be provided in the formal exhibit; some public remarks during the meeting included inconsistent dollar figures, so the board record notes that exact rent amounts are to be confirmed in the lease exhibit and supporting documents. The board approved the motion by roll call, 7‑0.