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Planning Commission unanimously approves Little School expansion to 125 children at 1520 Lyon Street
Summary
The commission approved an amendment to a conditional use authorization allowing The Little School to operate at licensed capacity (125 children) without building alterations; staff recommended approval and many parents and alumni called in support.
The Planning Commission unanimously approved an amendment to a prior conditional use authorization to allow The Little School at 1520 Lyon Street to operate consistent with its updated license and to expand capacity to 125 children. Staff said the project seeks to eliminate older conditions of approval so the school can function as a principally permitted use under current code and to expand program capacity without altering the existing building.
Kylie Thomas, Executive Director of The Little School, described the program's history, mission and operational measures to manage parking and loading, including a staff parking agreement, a rented staff lot, staggered pickup and drop‑off and a proposed loading zone from SFMTA. "We currently encourage all families and staff to carpool, walk, or bike to school," Thomas said during the presentation.
Dozens of parents, alumni and community members called in to support the school, describing its role in providing high‑quality early childhood education, discounted tuition and support for working families. Brandy Hudson, chair of The Little School board, and multiple parents gave examples of how expanded full‑time care would help working families and preserve diversity.
Commissioners voiced strong support for expanding childcare capacity. Commissioner Diamond said the city "desperately needs more childcare spaces," moved for approval, and the motion was seconded; the commission recorded a unanimous 6–0 vote to approve the amendment.
Next steps: The commission’s action removes prior special conditions and allows the school to operate to licensed capacity; staff will issue a release of the notice of special restrictions as part of the approval.
