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Community-backed preschool lease for Daniel Webster approved by SFUSD board
Summary
The board approved a lease allowing a community-run preschool at Daniel Webster Elementary, following testimony that the group will invest about $500,000 in renovations and reserve scholarship slots. Board members voiced support but requested program coordination and trust-building with current families.
The San Francisco Board of Education approved a lease on Aug. 28 to allow a community-operated preschool to use bungalow space at Daniel Webster Elementary, part of a neighborhood effort to revitalize the school.
Members of the Potrero Hill Potrero Residents Education Fund told the board they have raised funds and organized partnerships to open a Spanish-bilingual preschool operated by Mission Neighborhood Centers. Dina Fisher, representing the neighborhood group, asked the board for a favorable lease so community funds can be used for renovations and program start-up.
Melissa Millsaps said the group has committed roughly $500,000 to remodel the bungalows and plans to reserve one quarter of slots for scholarships while the remainder would be paid slots for families in the neighborhood. Former Mayor Art Agnos urged the board to grant a symbolic $1-per-year lease so the community investment will focus on building the program and scholarships.
Board members repeatedly expressed support. Commissioner Yee told the parents, "I'm very supportive of this lease agreement," and several other commissioners praised the parentslong-term organizing and fundraising work. Members also asked staff to ensure the preschool operator and district programs are coordinated with existing child-development and after-school services and to maintain trust with families already attending Daniel Webster.
Staff said the district would consider coordination and look at facility, special education, and programmatic needs during lease implementation. The roll call on the W items that included the lease recorded seven ayes.
The lease approval allows the community group to proceed with planned renovations and scholarship slots; board members said they expect continued staff oversight of lease terms and program coordination to protect existing families' interests.
