The only day school in the Bay Area without a permanent home will have its own space for the first time in January 2009.
Since its founding five years ago, Contra Costa Jewish Day School has grown from 20 to 80 children in kindergarten through eighth grade.
But the school still leases space in Temple Isaiah of Contra Costa County despite its current size and projected growth. The school wanted its own home.
“We’ve just outgrown Temple Isaiah — we’re bursting,” said Dean Goldfein, head of school at CCJDS. “The school and the temple are experiencing tremendous growth.”
So in October, Temple Isaiah members voted to allow CCJDS to build a new facility on their land. Because the project will take up congregational property, it was voted on by the full membership, not just the board.
Members approved the construction project 113-3.
“I think it enlarges the concept of a Jewish campus, that it’s not just a synagogue,” said Rabbi Roberto Graetz. “To have a community of children around the campus all the time is uplifting, revitalizing.”
The new 18,500-square-foot building will accommodate 180 students.
The capital campaign for the construction project is ongoing. The school needs to raise about $7.5 million for the educational building, and another $1.2 million for a separate gymnasium/rooftop playground that will be shared with the congregation. So far, the school has raised $3.25 million. Goldfein said the new building is expected to be completed in 2009.
Goldfein said that while he’s eager for more space, he’s grateful for the partnership between the Reform synagogue and the pluralistic school.
The new building will have nine classrooms, plus an art and music room and a state-of-the-art, 1,000-square-foot science lab.
Design plans also include a large, naturally lit beit midrash and library that overlooks the nearby hills. CCJDS is also excited that the site next to Temple Isaiah is close to Highway 24, which allows the school to serve a wide geographic area.
“To think six years ago there was not even a thought of a day school in Contra Costa County, and that we’ve grown the way we have is remarkable,” said Carla Smith, president of the school’s board of directors. “This building is an important undertaking for the community.”