District: New Discovery Childcare's Contract Not Likely To Be Renewed

Theis looking for a new tenant to replace which is housed in the district’s Lawrence Avenue administration building.

District Superintendent Susan Agruso said the rent paid by New Discovery does not cover the costs and that she expects that the center will no longer be renting the space after June 30.

“We expect it is something that is going to happen,” said Agruso. “We are trying to find another tenant.” According to Agruso other daycare centers may be interested.

The district has lowered the rent of the center in the past, but said it can no longer afford expenses greater than the rent they are brining in.

“Rental income is important to the district,” said Agruso.

The district is currently considering allowing a cell tower on administration property, which could bring in a total of $3.4 million in revenue over the length of the 30-year contract.

The center, which has been in Kings Park for 29 years, is hoping to find a new location in Kings Park. Many parents and school staff use the center for their childcare needs.

“We watch a lot of staff that live in Kings Park. We are a community center,” said Ebert. “School staff use the center, custodial staff, teachers and employees of the school district use the center."

Ebert said enrollment in the center is down.

New Discovery also provides before and after care for students in the district. Children are bused from Park View Elementary, RJO Middle School and William T. Rogers. The center provides care up to age 12.

Ebert, who said she doesn't yet know where she will relocate to, has every intention of keeping the program going.

Agruso said the district is looking into other options to give parents choices about before and after care.

“We will put the work out to other providers to see if they have room for other kids. We want the children to be cared for,” said Agruso, adding she hopes to have things settled by March.