Parents, Kids Fight To Keep State-Funded Preschool Open In Antioch
ANTIOCH (CBS SF) -- Parents kept their preschoolers up late Tuesday night in hopes of convincing Antioch City Council members to build a new school for their 300 kids.
Kids' Club's lease with the Antioch Unified School District ends June 30, which is when the space will be converted into a special education wing.
Now Kids' Club Executive Director Mark Moksi is scrambling to strike a deal with the city of Antioch to find a new location for the state-funded preschool that's free for most families.
"It's time for the city of Antioch and the school district to support these children and to support their community," Mokski said.
He wants to set up temporary building on an empty lot to create a new preschool.
On Tuesday night, parents and preschoolers came to the City Council meeting to support the plan.
"They're the ones being affected, not us adults. It's our children," said parent Ariana Santos. "And I would really, really be sad to see that opportunity go to waste."
Diana Villasenor credits the preschool for her ability to speak English. "Because of Kids' Club, I'm above my reading level," she said.
The City Council did not make a decision on Moski's proposal Tuesday. They simply heard public comment on it.
Parents are planning a rally Wednesday to try to build steam to save Kids' Club.