HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-02-11; City Council; 17077 part 2 of 3; Appeal Casa Montessori De Vista School CUP 01-12aoa
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. ."Ai 05 .*? s-::, !... , , ., ,cy ' ,. .q Gerald D Capp
3140 Highland Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
City of Carlsbad Planning Commission Case File
Regards:- July 17 public hearing on 3016
I have received your public hearing 7/17 notice. My
family moved to the Carlsbad Highland Drive Heritage 1887
Victorian home in 1968. So, I am very familiar with this
locale. As I may not be able to personally attend this
meeting I wish to write my opinion and opposition to the
request for a private K-8 school at 3016.
Through the past 34 years I have seen Highland Drive
car volume increase markedly. I credit the City of Carlsbad
for its earlier efforts to'restrict this street to the choice
residential area it has always been.
Now, we Highland residents see commuters use this route
as an alternative to waiting in a long line as 1-5 northbound
traffic crawls onto 78 heading eastward. Many of whom turn
right at this intersection as they drive to the Jefferson
on-ramp. The 3016 U shape driveway will load more con-
gestion at the critical commute hours of am and pm. This
ingress and egress access location is most undesirable.
The needs for additional different school facilities
is well realized. Plainly this residential location is
not the answer. I shudder.to think of the risk any youngster
will face who walks to school through this intersection. ..
For the 115 years that my home has been on Highland this
has only been residential area. Please let us not change it
into a commercial business use.
Sincerely,
July 30,2002
Ms. Barbara Kennedy
1635 Faraday
Carisbad, CA 92008
ciofcarlsbadPlalmingDepartmest
Ms. Kennedy,
This letter is to express our concerns for the plan to place a private Montessori Schd in
a residential area on the comer of Highland Drive and Carlsbad Viie Drive.
Wehi~ydisagreewiththeplanandhopethe111PlsnningDepartmentwill~with
the Planning staffmember’s recommendation and deny the proposal. It’s clearly not an .
appropriate area for such a business venture, especialty when it hvolves the safety of
ChildrUl.
Some of our umcems arc: a. The proposed location, zoned for a resideatial area at the corner of Highland
Drive and Carlsbad Vie Drive, is cleariy inappropriate and the full
Planning Department should firmty deny this application. It’s d for the
b. TrafEic on Highland is already. heavy during the normal school year. TrafEc is
c. TralBic on Highland will increase coI1sidcfBbly. We errvision a congestion of
children-& it’s &dm *-to happen
now.trayehg~hterthanthe speedhit of25WH.
tdic in the morning as parents drq~off their children and in theaftmoon
when the ”busiiss venture” is over for the day and &-parent will arrives to
pick up their children...what a mess the Highland DrivdCarlsbad Viie
Drive comer will be when 45+ cars arrive to get their children and the staff
depart! ’
concemed about them departing the business venture (school) grounds when
they see their parent’s car and wish to get to the vehicle faster. In a crowd of
vehicles, this is not a “de” condition fir the .children. Also, the location poses the potential of a child being abducted and whisked away north or south
on the hay More they are missed.
e. Kids will be kids, regardless of the number of adults supervising them. Duriq recess periods the children will be cWi fences, playing on the
grounds, generatiog noise, throwing balls, dc. How will this affect the
neighbors, established residents, who cumntly live in a residential area and
are forced to live.next to a commefciaf business, which they do not wish to
have in their neighborhood.Jt’s unfbirand not appropriate.
f. The increase in trafiic on Highland Drive will impede emergency vehicles that
wethestreetonaregularba8is.. .. g. The increase of traffic on Highland Drive will also affect the safety of the
public school students walking to public schools andfie Carlsbad residents
that are walking for exercise.
d. Having had children of our own and knowing how children are, we are
. . ._ ..
July 30,2002 Letter to Ms. Barbara Kennedy
Page 2
This venture for the school is nothing more than a commercial business and we do not
think a mned resid& tuea is the proper location for a commercial business. We hope
you will collsider the thoughts of the many “already established residents” over the desire of an individual who wishes to start a “codal business” in a residential tuea and
disrupt the established peacdid environment that presently exists. What will their next
step be? Will they suddenly acknowledge the dkty issues and then request sidewalks on
Highland Drive then trees will be removed and sidewalks added?
Ifthis is approved, can Highland Drive and other si Carlsbad neighborhoods look forward to other residential pperties being turned into commerd ventures?
We urge the City Of Carlsbah Planning Department to disapprove this proposal.
3370 Highland kve
Carlsbad, CA 92008
f
To: Ms. Barbara Kennedy,
Carlsbad Planning Dept.
1635 Faraday Ave.,
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Dear Ms. Kennedy,
My wife and I would like to record our opposition to the proposed Montessori De Vi School
on Highland Drive.
We have lived at the above address for 26 years, and feel that Highland Drive is one of the
leadiig residential areas which characterize the older, original Carlsbad. The addition of a
school would open the door and be a precedent for further degradation of this historic
residential street.
Sincerely,
JOY watts Brian Watts
W. J. PALENSCA COMPANY'
I CONSULTING
'9 hLawd
P.0. Box 431 Carlsbad, California 92008
August 4,2002
PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
RE: CASA MONTESSORI SCHOOL
To Whom It May Concern,
I have been a resident of Carhbad for 49 years and have seen many changes, both good
and bad. Unfortunately, it seems that the children always get the short end of the stick.
When there is a budget shortf the &st cuts to be made seem to affect children,
schools, hds, etc. In this case, a FEW residents are out to once again shoot down
something good for our future, our children. All this negative energy due to a FEW cars? .
Well, we residents raised the same traflic issue questions when LEGOLAND went in
next to the Price Club and we were told by our Mayor "THE RESIDENTS WILL
JUST HAVE TO GET USED TO IT." Legoland was much more devastating to
Carlsbad tban Casa Montessori could ever imagine being.
Mrs. San Taylor is an outstanding teacher who is able to get the most out of a child no
matter what their academic ability. Both of our children received outstanding
foundations for fbture learning and they were on opposite ends of the academic spectrum,
Jan brings so many wondd things to life for the students, which they could not
experience except in this setting.
Carlsbad is home of Casa Montessori preschool and kindergarten so this school is a
natural and necessary transition for the Montessori students. Currently, students would
have to travel to Oceanside (Mission Montessori) or Encinitas to continue their education
through 6* grade. Why not keep the revenue in Carlsbad?
You on the planning commission have the opportunity to do a great thing fbr our hture
by allowing this great school to be located in your great City. We must nourish the fbture
of our Country, which is our children.
PLEASE VOTE YES FOR THE CHILDREN.
Petersen and Ann Petersen
1410 Yourell Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(760) 729-3419
U
n r’
July 17,2002
To: Carlsbad Planning Commission
From: Kathy and Danyl Tell
261 1 Highland Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(760) 729-9078
Re: Opposition to changing the intent of the property the at 301 6 Highland Drive with a
conditional use permit.
We want to voice our omosition to the request for a Conditional Use Permit for the
property at 30 1 6 Highland Drive. This property should remain R- 1 single-family and
should not be allowed to become a private K-8 school. There is already high trafliic flow
on Highland Drive and Carlsbad Village Drive and it is a route for city buses. That
section of Highland Drive is narrow with historic houses and trees with nesting birds that
are protected A school in that location would create trafliic safety issues and would
negatively impact the surrounding area.
Please vote to DENY the Conditional Use Permit for the property at 3016 Highland
Drive.
Thank you.
John and Sue Bosio
3242 McKinley Street
Carlsbad, CA 92008
August 9,2002 _, . . -.
Barbara Kennedy
Carlsbad Planning Department
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
760/602-4626
Dear Ms. Kennedy:
This letter is to let you know we are opposed to the Montessori school proposed for the comer of
Highland and Carlsbad Village Drive.
This is already a very busy comer, and Highland Avenue is only two lanes. Even with 36
students plus staff, this will create a traffic problem at this comer in the morning and aflernoon
during some of the busiest times for commuters, parents with children at other schools, and the
residents. This neighborhood is strictly residential and is not compatible with a commercial
venture of this nature. In addition, there are already two Montessori schools in the downtown
Carlsbad area, and we feel there is no need for another one.
Please heed the voices of the community and do not allow this new, high impact business to be
allowed at the proposed location.
Sincerely,
John and Sue Bosio
Highland Drive Friends 8 Neighbors,
We are trying to reach a11 the neighbors who have an interest, signed a petition andlor
been to meetings to express their opposition to changing the intent of the property at
the corner of Highland Drive and Carlsbad Village Drive (3016 Highland Drive, former Dunne property) from R-1 single-family to allowing a commercial school,
Notice has been given that the Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad will hold a
public hearing at the Council Chambers, 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive, at 6:OO p.m. on
Wednesday, July 1Fh, to consider a request for a private K-8 school located at 3016
Highland Drive on a 0.7 acre lot. The site is located at the southeast corner of the
intersection of Highland Drive and Carlsbad Village Drive in the R-1 zone,
Some of the things that will impact our residential street are:
This is a private school that is a high impact, for-profit, commercial business proposed
in a house on this already busy corner, bringing in traffic from Oceanside and San
Marcos as well as Carlsbad.
45+ students, 5+ employees.
45+ cars arriving and departing 830 AM to 9:OO AM
45+ cars arriving and departing again at 3:OO PM to 3:45 PM.
90% of existing front yard will be a parking lot.
This business has been denied approval by the Planning 6 Engineering staff but is now
appealing to the full Planning Commission anyway.
If anyone challenges the Conditional Use Permit in court, they are limited to raising
only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing.
We need your support at this meeting opposing the approval of a Special
Use Permit for the operation of this private school on this property in a
residential neighborhood that should remain within the single-family
intent.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1200 CARLSBAD VILLAGE DRIVE
WEDNESDAY, 711 7/02
6:OO PM
Contact: Terry Simpkins, 3042 Highland Drive, 720 9430 for additional information or comments.
Barbara Kennedy - CITY OF CARLSBAD I CONTACT US Page 1
ATTACHMENT 7
From: <h.ekdahl@att.net,
To: <Planning@smtp.ci.carlsbad.ca.us> Date: 411 2/02 4:58PM Subject: CITY OF CARLSBAD I CONTACT US
A visitor to the City of Carlsbad Web site has completed
and posted the "Contact Us" form to department, Planning.
Below, please find the information that was submitted:
First Name: Harry Last Name: Ekdahl
Address: 1630 James Dr.
City: Carlsbad
State: CA
Zip: 92008
Country: US
E-mail: h.ekdahl@att.net
Message: Subject: Proposec
Highland St.:
j Montessori School at the southeast corner of Carlsbad Village Dr. and
MY wife (a stay at home homemaker) and I (civil engineer)object to the proposed school for the following
reasons:
a) The noise from the school would be very disturbing; it is very close to my property. The proposed
playground would cause an large amount of loud noise.
b) I am also concerned about the possibility of other groups using the facility on weekends and the
associated noise from that would be unacceptable.
c) The traffic with the probability of 5 cars backing across her driveway would be a hazard.
d) We already have a school at the corner of Valley St. and Carlsbad Village Dr. Having 2 schools in
close proximity, could mean a lot of noise and traffic congestion.
e) The applicant was not honest with me about my neighbor, Mr. Gardner, not objecting to the approval
of the proposed project with the construction of a sound wall. He told me he would not drop his objections
in any case.
f) The proximity of the proposed school to Carlsbad Village could be a real hazard to the small children.
User details: Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSlE 5.0; Windows 98; DigExt; AT&T CSM6.0) I web browser
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216.148.246.70 / ip address
July 2,2002
Barbara Kennedy
Planning Department
1635 Faraday Ave.
Carlsbad, Ca. 92008-73 14
RE: CUP 01-12
Case Name: casa montessori DE VISTA school
Please notethe reasons why, I Bertha Michele Levy , say NO to the
CUP 0 1 - 12 being given a conditional use permit.
** 1) More traffic / More chance of accidents.
2) Pollution - Extra cars waiting.
3) Noise fiom people and cars.
4) Seven business days in a residential area.
5) The loss of two more trees on Hidand Dr. which the birds and I really
6) Having to see a parking lot where flowers use to be.
7) Having now more noise and pollution because owners of 301 6
8) Conditional use permit should -be given to people who have go& the
enjoy every day.
Highland Dr. have cut plants and trees that help reduce noise and pollution.
city money because of their illegal grading.
Sincerely,
Bertha Michele Levy 1
** 2/9/02 5:40pm A car rolled from fkont of 3016 Highland Dr. to my
property 3021 Highland Dr. , crossing a two lane street, hitting trees , my
fence and nearly hitting my house and people.
July 2, 2002
Barbara Kennedy, Planning Department
City of Carlsbad Planning
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad CA 92008
RE: Application CUP 01-12 for Casa Montessori Elementary School.
This letter is to place our formal objection to and disapproval of a private school next
door at 3016 Highland Drive. We live at 3042 Highland Drive, the property adjacent to
the south of the above property.
The Casa Montessori de Vista School is a private school that will be attended by 40+
children who will be chauffeured by parents or nannies from all over the tri-city area to
this busy corner. This property is a R1 zoned corner lot with a traffic light, sided by the
busy four-lane Carlsbad Village Drive and facing the residential Highland Drive. This
means that the cars will be lined up on Highland Drive to get into the planned small
drive-through drop-off area, or park in the proposed parking lot (which will replace the
present front yard), and will only move as fast as the traffic light allows.
This parking lot will be extremely busy twice a day, at least five days per week: thirty
(40) to forty (50) cars within a thirty minute period each time at 8:30 AM arrival drop-off
and again at 3:OO PM for student pickup.
On many days this comer already has cars backed up in front of our house in the
morning and afternoon at the traffic light on the corner of Highland Drive and Carlsbad
Village Drive, which is directly in front of the proposed private.school property.
Numerous cars already use the two parallel driveways (that one and ours) to turn
around.
Because our granddaughter is a student at the existing Montessori school on Pine (just
a few block away from this proposed school) and we often pick her up, we know that the
parents park on both sides of the street on most of the block at pick-up/drop-off time.
Since there is very little place to park on Highland Drive, cars will be backed up on the
street, significantly slowing the already busy corner. Even a single student drop-off
comihg from the east or west at busy times will back up traffic into the intersection of
Highland Drive and Carlsbad Village Drive.
We also worry about the students’ safety at this busy corner if drivers in a hurry decide
to drop students off on the street. These cars will also start turning around in driveways
all along Highland Drive to avoid the mess at the corner traffic light.
This is not a case of “Not in my own back yard” as the Casa Montessori de Vista School
is not a school that will be attended by local Carlsbad neighborhood children, that just
any child can attend, or that is for underprivileged children who have no other good
choice. This business caters to parents who do not, for some reason or another, want
to put their children in their own local public school system and can afford a private
school.
Janann Taylor, Director of Casa Montessori de Vista School, would have you believe
that this beautiful residential area is already very commercial in feeling. She mentions
the assisted care facility that has been approved on Carlsbad Village Drive between
Highland and Pi0 Pic0 without mentioning that the property has always been zoned for
precisely that type of thing, and would have been a good choice of property for her
school. She also states that we, next door, manufacture flight simulators here. While
that is our business, our executive offices are at 2026 Palomar Airport Rd. and the
manufacturer is Matrix Enterprises in Poway. Granted, there are flower growers across
Carlsbad Village Drive, but they were here first, generate no traffic and add a certain
charm to the area.
After stating the above, it is hard to imagine how putting this large school in a small
house in a single-family neighborhood could add to the value of the lives of the present
ance our residential neighborhood.
t
Linda M. Simpkins
Tele: 720 9430
Fax: 720 9916
July 7, 2002
Barbara Kennedy, Planning Department
. City of Carlsbad Planning
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad CA 92008
RE: Application CUP 01-12 for Casa Montessori Elementary School.
Since receiving the notice from the planning department stating that any concerns must
be addressed either in writing or at the public hearing on July 17th, we feel in addition to
all the concerns we have mentioned in a former letter that it is time to address property
values.
Why should these people be allowed to make money from a business at this property
while making the surrounding neighbors lose hundreds of thousands of dollars in
property values? We are in our 60s and plan to stay in our home as long as we can.
That’s probably a good thing, as we know that all disclosures must be made to potential
real estate buyers (we have already had this hanging over our heads for years), and not
many people now would buy our property (which includes a large use-to-be-private
backyard and pool) if there was any chance of a business generating so much traffic
and noise going in next door.
In a letter dated 11/16/01 Jan Taylor, director of Casa Montessori de Vista School,
states, “As a twenty year resident at 1351 Pine Avenue, my family and I enjoy the
quality of life in Carlsbad. I wish to contribute and even be part of a solution for the
development of this unique property.” As fourteen year next door neighbors of this
property, we wonder why Ms. Taylor even thinks this beautiful estate property needs to
be developed. We do not believe that “developing” properties on Highland Drive adds
either to the quality of life or value of the properties of the current residents. Especially
a development that will bring in 45+ cars, from Oceanside and San Marcos as well as a
few Carlsbad residents, at least twice per day, five days per week. Since over 115
property owners directly surrounding this property have signed a petition against
granting a Conditional Use Permit for this private school for children whose parents
have decided, for one reason or another, they don’t want to put their chi,ldren in their
own public schools (not even all from Carlsbad) and can afford the tuition, we don’t
believe she knows what is best for our neighborhood.
Mrs. Taylor also states in another letter that Mrs. Dunne, the former owner, would be
delighted to have this school for 45 children plus staff in her beautiful home. Both the
Colonel (a former Carlsbad Mayor) and Mrs. Dunne were very proud of their home.
When we would visit with them they would bring out scrapbooks and photos and the
house was filled with beautiful objects and furnishings from their many travels. We
believe we knew the Dunnes better than Ms. Taylor ever did and do not agree with her
presumptions.
1
We have read the letters sent by proponents of the school on this property and their
only real support seems to be for how wonderful Montessori schools are. We agree.
Our Granddaughter is presently in Kindergarten at the one on Pine, a few blocks away,
across the street from the Senior Center and next to the old grade school. As far as we
know they do not have a waiting list. We know how much traffic, commotion and noise
this school generates all day long. It’s certainly more traffic than can get through an
already busy intersection. Ms. Taylor states that because her property is not near any
existing school that the traffic generated by her school will not interfere with other
schools. It’s nice of her to worry about the other schools. Now, if she would only show
the same concern for this neighborhood. If we had wanted to live near a busy private
ve bought a house next to one.
Carlsbad CA 92008
7607209430
‘t!inda M. Simpkins
3042 Highland Drive
Carlsbad CA 92008
City of Carlsbad Plauning Department
1635 Faraday Avenue
carlsbad
San Diego
CA 92008-73 14
Request for Private school at 3016 Highlad Avenue
I own the property at 1648 James Drive that is close to the proposed development.
I would like to express my opposition to the granting of any request for development of
this residential property as a school for the following reasons;
1) The situation of 3 106 Highland (partially concealed entry, on narrow street at a busy intersection) is such that children attending the school will be placed in
danger when being picked up and dropped off. Not only will this endanger
children but the resulting injuries will cerhidy result m liability suits. It is
positively the worst site imaginable for a school.
for other motorists and those driving to and &om the schooL The nearby residents .
will most suffer as result of the added risk. The impact of dropping off and
picking up 45 pupils (in addition to the school staff and any service deliveries)
will be to create waiting lines stretching on both sides of Highland up past the
junction with Oak. (This is already hazardous due to limited visibility and
motorists speeding when driving West on Oak to Highland). James Drive will
become a short cut raceway to the school exposing the children and Mes there
to added unnv through trafEc.
3) Highland is a residential street. This is a commercial development out of character
with a quaint and interesting residential neighborhood, and close historical homes.
A development of this kind - high fencing, lighting, 45-55 people on a small lot,
fiont yard parking lot etc is totally out of place on a street of this kind which is
correctly zoned as R1.
4) There has been no account taken by Ms Taylor to ameliorate the disruption that
threatens this neighborhood fiom this ill conceived development. This is utterly
amazing in the face of virtually unanimous opposition &om the adjacent
community. It shows extreme insensitivity to the residents and the young lives
that will be put at risk because of this scatter brained scheme.
2) The additional pick up and drop off trafiic at the intersection will create a hazard
Sincerely
Dr David and Elaine Waite
James Gardner
1636 James Dr.
Carlsbad Ca. 92008
July 1,2000
City Of Carlsbad
Planning Department
1635 Faraday Ave.
Carlsbad California 92008-73 14
Planning Department Re: Case file-CUP 01-12
Case name- CASA MONTESSORI DE VISTA SCHOOL
I am a resident & property owner of Carlsbad. My' property borders 3016 Highland
properties along our shared back fence. I feel that I will be affected as much or more than
anyone by this proposed school. I would like to make it clear that I am very much
opposed to this idea of another school in our residential neiborhood. Traf€ic in this area is
already a major issue. Forty -five more cars twice a day at already congested times is my
biggest concern. Besides the traffic issue, the idea of forty-five children playing 50 feet
from my bedroom window is less appealing. I can only imagine the noise & stray play
toys, ECT. That will be accumulating in my yard & on Carlsbad Village Dr., let alone
stray children. This is a residential neiborhood not a commercial property I feel that
attention must be given to the fact that if a school is allowed to operate, what's to stop
before & after hours child care, night, weekend, and holiday fbnctions, year round or
summer school. You would be forcing the local neighbors to police the use of this
property & that is just not right. I have worked long & hard to be able to own a home in a
safe & quiet neiborhood in Carlsbad. I am quite sure our property values will be
negatively affected if this school is allowed. Due to the fact that Mrs. Taylor has already
been a less than desirable neighbor, I can oniy hope you will not allow this school to
proceed. This is just not the right location for this school. && s Gardner
Dan dk Barbara Anderson
1642 James Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
760-729-3072
The petition contains 120 signatures from Carlsbad, representing 114 properties.
Properties shaded are current residents that oppose a school at 3016 Highland Dr.
The map includes only signers of properties in close proximity.
Many other signatures, all from Carlsbad, have been collected.
Of the residents asked to sign this petition'only four refused.
The other properties in close proximity that are not shaded could not be cont$!&. -../ m w fl v I. w/ L-W /t U.I et8 rn m\\\\\ \ A mn% \n IY v Y
OPPOSING PETITION UPDATE JULY 17,2002
THIS PETITION WAS SIGNED BY NEIGHBORS
OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A SPECIAL USE PERMIT
FOR A PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE.
THIS PETITION REPLACES ALL OPPOSING PETITIONS
SUBMITTED PRIOR TO JULY 17,2002.
169 SIGNATURES REPRESENT
148 SEPARATE SURROUNDING PROPERTIES
70 OF THESE PROPERTIES ARE ON HIGHLAND DRIVE
ALL SIGNATURES WERE GATHERED BETWEEN JUNE 22
AND JULY 17,2002
I
I THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT: /
Name (please print) Address Phone #
1 *Q&
3
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
.CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-I AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
' @L .4
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTHEAST
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. CARLSBAD.VILLAGE DR.,
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone Y
-5
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) ., Address Phone #
*. OH 6
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone Y
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Addrqqs Phone #
B
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. 8i CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
9
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
.CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
lulc wr3
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE,. THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone Y
I/
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address . Phone #
iiz
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL.AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTHEAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-I AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone I
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THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
..
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTHEAST
.CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTWWST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone Y
6
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST .
.CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
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THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
I
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTHEAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAlN.WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
;9
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPEWTION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-1 AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
a47
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CO.RNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-I AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone ##
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APPEAL FORM
I (We) appeal the decision of the ?Ian&
to the Carlsbad City Council.
Date of Decision you are appealing: Wem ber 3 0, 2007
Subiect of ADDeal:
.M
BE SPECIFIC Examples: if the action is a City Engineer's Decision, please say so. If a project has
multiple elements, (such as a General Plan Amendment, Negative Declaration, Specific Plan, etc.) please
list them all. If yw o
I-< rhcOnsc=-b + 'wI+.)) % bmfur rss:CY) rRJ 3I"B I/
t 4 < t
4 oa
Reason&) for Atmeal: Please Note Failure to specify a reason may result in denial of
the appeal, and you will be limited to the grounds stated here when presenting your appeal.
BE SPECIFIC How did the decision maker err? What about the decision is inconsistent with state or local
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive - Carlsbad, California 92008-1989 - (61 9) 434-2808 "P a4
Montessori Arts and Sciences
Mnntessori Arts & Sciences- Inc. Fsilitv # 376612582
3016 Highland Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008-1915 (760) 434-6440 Fax (760) 434-6440
December 2,2002
I appeal the decision of the Planning Commission to the Carlsbad City Council.
..
The date of the decision wasJ!U!m”
Subject of the Appeal: The decision of the Planning Commission that the project, a small private school, is incompatible with the neighborhood is inconsistent with the Planning Commission’s previous decision on the CUP
01 -1 2 and mitigated Negative Declaration. No new substantive information was presented at the hearing and there are no new environmental conditions or changes in the proposed project which would alter the earlier findings of the Planning Commission Resolutions 531 4 and 531 5.
Reason($) for Appeal: All elements relating to neighborhood compatibility had been addressed as evidenced by the Planning Commission’s approval of the project as conditioned. A small, private school is allowed by a Conditional Use Permit, according to municipal code. No testimony was offered during the hearing refuting the adequacy of the proposed conditions as related to maintaining neighborhood compatibility. Therefore, the decision made by the Commission was not based on new facts.
The Commission’s findings are inconsistent with State and Local CEQA regulations and guidelines: particularly, but not limited to Section 15064 and 15270 with project’s mitigated Negative Declaration approved by the Planning Commission in Resolution 531 4.
The Commission’s Findings are not based on a logical progression demonstrated by substantiative information in the public record.
There are procedural and substantiative errors in the Commission’s findings.
POLICE ACTIVITY REPORT w. -, ' \\
%Lb\k
SUMMARY OF CRIME, ARRESTS, CITATIONS, & COLLISIONS
0.1 mile surrounding Highland Avenue and Carlsbad Village Drive
January 1, 2002 - December 3 1,2002
ACTMTY
3 Traffic Collisions
7 Warnings/Field Interviews
3 Citations
2 Arrests
3 Crime Cases
COUNT
CALLS FOR SERVICE
30 16 Highland
January 1,2002 -December 31,2002
DATE DESCRIPTION
9/ 17/ 02
9/ 19/02
Chronic problems with neighbor
PR contact 11/ 19/02
of students
Complaint re: neighbor taking photos
February 7,2003
To Whom It May Concern:
We are writing this letter in support of Ms. Jan Taylor who has proposed the opening of a
small Montessori elementary school on the southwest corner of Carlsbad Village Drive
and Highland.
We have known Ms. Taylor since we had our children enrolled at Casa Montessori in
Carlsbad. We were extremely pleased with the education that our children received at
this school. We have always thought of Jan as an excellent teacher and human being who
truly cares about her students. We always found her to be a person of high integrity.
We currently reside at 1363 Pine Avenue and go by the proposed school site on a regular
basis. We feel that the location that has been selected is appropriate given the other
school and city service buildings that are close to the proposed school. We feel that the
impact on the community will be minimal in terms of traffic but tremendous in terms of
providing continuity for the students who currently attend Casa Montessori.
We both work in public education and believe in allowing parents to have choices when
looking for educational programs for their children. This is what Ms. Taylor is proposing
to offer this wonderful community. She wants to give and not take away. Ms. Taylor has
demonstrated a genuine concern for the respect of others in the community by her
planning of the school facility and grounds.
We support Ms. Taylor’s proposal to enrich this great City of Carlsbad by providing a
quality school for its children. Please do the right thing and approve her proposal.
C-\rbsk E. De Anda
1363 Pine Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Isabel I. De Anda
ALL RECEIVED
Sue Team AGENDA ITEM #
1749 Bonita Lane /o
C: Mayor
Please vote NO on this conditional use permit case file CUP 01-12
Sincerely,
Dear Mayor Lewi s Montessori school
L% 7- (0 -. ., Lars:, or
City cl:auncil ALL RECEIVED
City Manager
City Attorney
City lerk
&&&&#A
f
I am writing you in support of Montessori Arts and Sciences School and Jan Taylor. The benefits to the community in having such a school surly outway any precieved drawbacks. My daughter, Nicole, went to Mrs. Taylors school last year and I look forward to having her attend again. The quality of the education at the school i s excel 1 ent .
It has come to my attention that Jan Taylor's integrity has been questioned by some. MrS Taylor's integrity is beyond reproach. The children and thei r education are of paramount importance to Mrs. Taylor, as it should be. Ask any of the parents, who entrust their greatest treasure in life to Mrs. Taylor, how they feel about her integrity and I'm sure that ou will get two thumbs up. Anyone who slanders Mrs. Taylor's integrity does not z now her and has their own self centered interest in mi nd.
Mrs. Taylor is an educator not a politician. Do not fault her for not knowing how to play the city Hal 1 . she excel 1 s at teaching our chi ldern. our society would be much better off ifame we had more people like Jan Taylor.
Thank you for your time and consideration
Capti an D. E. Frye United Ai rli nes
Page 1
ALL t ;YED
January 31,2003
City of Carlsbad
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Attn: Mayor Bud Lewis
AGENDAITEM #
c: Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
IU
Dear Mayor Lewis:
I write this heartfelt letter to you in hopes that the City of Carlsbad will seriously consider
appealing the planning commissions denial of the CUP to Montessori Arts and Sciences.
I strongly believe that Carlsbad has a need for a qualified Montessori school of this nature.
When we first moved to Carlsbad, I could not understand that in one of the bggest cities in
San Diego, with so many young families, that there are not more quality small private
schools to choose from. In fact, there are very few. The few private schools that do exist in
Carlsbad are mostly relrgious and the one Montessori school is poor at best.
Our family chose Casa Montessori de Vista (back in September of 2000) primarily because
of Jan Taylor’s dedicated vision as an educator of children. I have visited nearly every
private school (Montessori or otherwise) ftom Oceanside to Del Mar and have yet to find
any as amazing as what I have experienced at Casa Montessori de Vista. This has everythurg
to do with Jan Taylor and the small intimate size of the former school. She is a teacher who
has been educating children for over two decades with such stellar results. I have known Jan
Taylor personally for nearly three years and I can tell you she is a woman with such immense
honesty and integrity that if she is given the opportunity from the City of Carlsbad, I am
certain this can only sgdicantly benefit Carlsbad.
I sincerely urge the City Council to please consider this project as a major enhancement to
the city of Carlsbad and not the unsafe, unsightly proposal that certain individuals have
portrayed this to be. I believe this proposed small school deserves a fair chance and so do
the citizens of the community.
ALL RECEIVED
t 3
YO CB
Dwayne Edwards-Pastor
February 4,2003
Mayor Bud Lewis
Carlsbad City Hall
1200 Carlsbad Village
Carlsbad, CA 92008
AGENDAITEM# /o
City Council
City Manager
Drive City Attorney City Clerk
c: Mayor
Dear Mayor Lewis,
Hi! Hope your new year is going great! I am writing in support of the private school that is attempting to
get a C.U.P. at 301 6 Highland Drive. You will be looking at it again on February 1 lL. I'm aware of the
situation because one of the families in my church is involved with this school. Their daughter, who
graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University, is teaching there. I have also spoken with the owner,
Jan Taylor.
I want to encourage you to approve her being able to have the school, This school can only add to the
value of our community in Carlsbad. I am sure the traffic from this small school will hardly be noticed.
In addition, I have learned that some of my neighbors - those living just around my church (at least three
to four blocks away on the North side of Carlsbad Village Drive) - are joining in the complaint against this
school. I would hope that you would not seriously consider their interests in this project, because they
live in this neighborhood and not that one. Unfortunately, these same neighbors are adamantly opposed to
us building a new facility atour location at 1400 Las Flores Drive.
I really appreciate all you do. You are in my prayers constantly. As a church, it looks like we will be
reevaluating our long-range plans at 1400 Las flores Drive. We are excited for the future God has for us.
Thanks for your prayers.
Sincerely,
Dwayne Edwards
1400 Las Uores Drive * Carlsbad, C4 92008
760.729.023 1; email pastordwayne@asioreschurch.com
AGENDAITEM# 10 or-
QbCd cur- "
(I' 59
Carlsbad City Council February 5,2003
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, California 92008
ALL RECEIVED
Dear Mayor Lewis:
I am writing to express my support for the conditional use permit application for
Casa Montessori School to operate at 3016 Highland Drive. As a Montessori School
operator for thirty years I know the value to parents of small programs such as this. I
have known the applicant, Jan Taylor, for twenty-five years and can vouch for her
integrity and her dedication to children.
potential traffic problems. If the application is approved the whole parking section will
be re-structured and sheltered from view by trees and shrubs; will be a much safer
environment than is currently there and will continue to look like a private home.
Additionally, the arrival and pickup of students will be staggered in order to make less
impact on the neighborhood. Two-thirds of the frontage of this property is on Carlsbad
Village Drive not on Highland Avenue.
history of Car1sbad.A small school is a good neighbor and a buffer from traffic.
Neighbors can be sure that there will be no loud parties at night and no weekend
activities. Mrs. Taylor has stated that any activity involving the whole school will be
held off site in order to not disturb the neighborhood. Not all children can cope with a
large school environment such as public schools and a quality program like this will be a
big asset to Carlsbad. I sincerely hope that you will approve this conditional use permit.
I know that one of the concerns of the neighborhood has been
This would be an excellent use for this fine older property that is part of the
Sincerely,
Avril Ferguson
4260 Sunnyhill Drive
Carlsbad, Ca. 92008
February 10,2003
TO: MAYOR
CITY COUNCIL
FROM: COUNCIL MEMBER KULCHIN
PHONE CALL FROM MARY CASLER
FYI - Mary Casler called me on Thursday, February 6 to let me know she is opposed
to the Montessori School at 3016 Highland Drive.
mhs
c: City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
MONTESSORJ TEACHERS COLLEGE. OF SM DIEGO
45444 Pocahontas Avenue
San Diego, California 92112
Director: Lo Ann Jundt Early Ckldhood Coordinator: Betty Bailey
Administrative Aesistant: Darlene Wells Elementary 6-9 Coordinator: Susan Wktacre
Phone: (858) 210-9350 FAX: (858) 213-4254 Elementary 9-12 Coordinator: Katherine Basmagy
February 4, 2003 AGENDA ITEM # 0
C: Mayor
City Council
City of Carlsbad, City Council City Manager
1200 Carlsbad Village City Attorney
Carlsbad, CA 92008
To Whom It May Concern:
We believe that children are the future and the greatest resource that our communities have.
We also share the belief of many individuals that the goal of Montessori schools is to address
the uniqueness of each child in a nurturing, emotionally secure and academically excellent
environment, and that they provide children the support they need for emotional, intellectual,
physical, and social growth.
With those goals in mind, Jan Taylor, an experienced educator, has plans to extend the
developmental programs provided by Casa Montessori de Carlsbad, located for 30 years at
3470 Madison Street. The plans include the preservation and conversion of the Olde Carlsbad
Historic Estate into a small Montessori Elementary school for 36 children ages 6-12. The
conversion 'will not only. provide a .beautiful indoor and outdoor, environment for children but
will also enhance . the aesthetics of -the estate property and blend beautifully with. the
surrounding neighborhood while ensuring neighborhood compatibility. By so doing, the
property value will also be increased.
I have known Jan Taylor since 1992 and have been impressed by her dedication to the high
standards of Montessori education which adheres to the principles of showing children respect
and encouraging independence as they realize their full potential. To those who know her,
Jan lives by the very philosophy she teaches, which includes a belief in universal human
values, integrity and compassion for others. She has been an enthusiastic teacher and
administrator of Montessori schools for 22 years, and has been very supportive of various
Montessori programs in the community. With the realization of this project, she will be able
to reach her goal of providing this opportunity for excellent alternative education in your
community.
We wish to lend our support of Jan Taylor's endeavors in Carlsbad. Our Montessori Teachers
College of San Diego has been serving the San Diego area since 1975. Our college applauds
the' efforts of Ms., Taylor in bringing a high quality Montessori Elementary school to Carlsbad.
.I I . ,, ,. .. , .. .
.. .. I
Director, Mon&sori Teachers College of San Diego
Accredited by MALTE to 2007 Affiliated with the National Center for Montessori Education
To: Cartsbad City Council Re: CUP 01-1 2 - Casa Montessori de Vista School
C: Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
Dear friends.
I urge you to approve this application, as a positive approach to adaptive reuse of an historic site in an established neighborhood. The Casa Montessori proposal retains the home's original architecture and provides landscaping that would enhance its appearance from every aspect. Carlsbad has managed to develop a tradition of converting former residences to profeaional and/or commercial uses. Many mall homes in the downtown area have followed this pattern, as have similar structures in other cities. In doing so, they have retained historic neighborhood scale, while providing for community needs and usages. Once upon a time the project site wa6 remote from traffic concerns but the eastward extension of Elm Ave., [now Carlsbad Village Dr.) changed all that. David Dunne, the former owner of this house, was the Mayor of Carlsbad when that project was designed to facilitate accea to and from Camino Plaza Real and other points east, The subsequent installation of traffic lighb was a reaponse to the succeM of this endeavor even as it further altered the quiet residential flavor of this particular part of Highland Dr.
As you already know, change is a constant in any growing community and usually requires some adjustment on the part of its citizens, The needs that inspire changes, such as the traffic lights, benefit the community at large. With the library and fire station less than a block away to the west, and two churches a block away to the east., this portion of Highland Drive is now adjacent to a major thoroughfare. To those of us who frequently travel on it, the neighborhood is unmistakably changing every day. several very large homes have taken the place of more modest dwellings, often forsaking the style and scale of the original structure. Thanks to ita history, style and location, the Dunne home is already a true local landmark. The Casa Monkssori proposal insures that its visual qualities would remain but, more than that, they would shelter a unique educaBona1 and cultural asset of value tX, the entire community.
Thank you for your consideration.
T
..-
Mayor and City Council Members
City of Carlsbad
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
AGENDA ITEM # / 0
C: Mayor
City Coundl 3 1 January 2003
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk *
Re : Montessori Arts and Sciences Academy
The honorable Bud Lewis, Ramona Finnila, Matt Hall, Ann Culchin, Mark Packard,
Before you is a comprehensive package and implementation plan to provide much needed
alternative advanced primary school education in the City of Carlsbad. However, a small but
vocal band of opponents has recently voiced their opinions in opposition of this project,
convinced this school is wrong for Carlsbad. To the contrary, I strongly urge all of you to
consider this proposal on Its merits, without bias, weighing both. pros and cons, and appreve its
recommendation as overwhelmingly the right thing to do for Carlsbad.
The proposed Montessori Arts and Sciences Academy, planned for 3016 Highland kve brings
with it the bright prospect of endowing over 30 young students with an enriching and nurturing
environment. Although somewhat different from current public elementary education, the
Montessori curriculum is carefully structured and integrated to demonstrate the connections
among the different subject areas. Every class teaches critical thinking, composition, and
research. History lessons link architecture, the arts, science and technology. However,
Montessori schools by their nature are generally small in size and therefore do not directly
compete with public schools for either enrollment or funding. They function as tax-paying and
revenue-generating businesses operating in full compliance with local regulations and
requirements.
A key argument plan opponents previously raised involved business operation in a predominately
residential neighborhood. True, 3016 Highland Drive occupies an extremely desirable plot on
one of the City’s most desirable residential street addresses. However, the proposed business’
clientele are elementary school-aged children who will occupy these premises from only 8AM to
5PM daily. Comparatively, far more impacting business lie only two blocks away at the comer of
Pi0 Pic0 and Carlsbad Village Dnve, open for much greater portions of the day. The average
Carlsbad citizen would not even notice the resulting overall impact of a small school operating
for eight hours a day.
Secondly, some opponents voiced concern over school children laughing and playing disturbing
the area solitude. Although the sleep patterns and silent wishes of all neighbors must be overall
respected, the specific requests of a few must be reasonably compared to the overwhelming needs
of the whole. As mentioned above, the Montessori Arts and Sciences Academy is planned as an
academic school with lessons playing a predominant role in the daily curriculum of 30 small
children. However, daily recess and physical activities are necessary requirements toward proper
development of young minds and bodies. Occasional laughing and playing noises must be
expected. Whether these small sounds can be differentiated from traffic noises from either
Carlsbad Village Drive or Interstate 5 is unlikely.
Additionally, plan opponents speculate traffic generated from the proposed school would severely
and negatively impact the local intersection. Although the intersection of Carlsbad Village Drive
and Highland Drive is a modestly busy intersection within the City, the Environmental Impact
Report submitted with the plan and conducted by the respected and unbiased City of Carlsbad
staff conclusively shows an insignificantly small traffic impact resulting from the school. The
plan features a staggered student drop-off and pick-up plan, and cueing of twelve cars to
minimize participant volume in the area during these times, effectively counteracting any
anticipated traffic impact. Again, any impact by cars to or from school OCCUTS only twice per day
and for extremely short time duration.
Finally, artist depictions and plan layout details show the proposed school's respect for the
historic design and estate quality properties of former and current City residents of this area.
Little overall current appearance impacts to building facade are planned while significant
property improvements have already been or soon will be incorporated. The plan retains the
unique charm Carlsbad properties offer residents and visitors alike. The plan also will provide
those who live here a similarly new and unique schooling environment currently offered nowhere
else within City borders. As leaders of this City, I respectfully ask that you reconsider this plan
on all its merits, examining the overall good of the plan over the unwarranted fears and
unjustified opposition of plm opponents. I then ask you to move toward approval so this school
may soon open. Unfortunately, a direct result of a final City Council plan rejection may force the
current property owners to re-evaluate their economic outlook. A potential property sale and
resulting alternative property redevelopment might leave Carlsbad residents with something far
less appealing and generally useful than the masterful plan that slipped away.
Sincerely,
Lou Chow
3936 Syme Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
AGENDA ITEM # Io
C: Mayor City Council
City Manager
February 5,2003
Dear Carlsbad City Council, ,
I would like to express my unconditional support for the proposed school at 3016
Highland Drive. I encourage the Council to accept the project not only for its
compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood but also for the incredible benefits that
it will bring to the community. As the daughter of the applicant, Jan Taylor, I was raised
in Carlsbad for my entire childhood and educated at her previous school, Casa
Montessori.
educator. For me Casa Montessori was a haven-a place where I could enjoy freedom in
my intellectual pursuits, hone my skills under the guidance of my mother and her staff
and witness the meaning of personal responsibility and good citizenship. Jan Taylor,
through her work at Casa Montessori, imparts on children the value of ethical action,
leadership, social responsibility and giving back to the community, while encouraging
them and challenging them intellectually.
Today as a graduate from the University of California, Berkeley with a double
major in Molecular Biology and Dance and as a professional dancer with the Mark Morris
Dance Group, I attribute my success to the foundation I gained at Casa Montessori and
continue to employ the lessons I learned there as I face new challenges.
Upon visiting Casa Montessori at its previous location as an adult I was struck by
the harmony of the environment and the symbiotic relationships of the students. The
older students, eager to share their knowledge and set a positive example, were assisting
the younger students. Meanwhile the curiosity of the younger students was inspiring the
older students to reach even higher in their pursuit for knowledge and skill. In the
intimate environment carefully fostered by my mother and her staff the students were
encouraged to delve into foreign language, music, art and culture. At Casa Montessori
the students were provided with all the tools to succeed intellectually, emotionally,
socially and physically.
I look at my peers from Casa Montessori and I am astounded at their
accomplishments in science, art, academia, politics and human relations. I am thrilled
with their personal successes but moreover I am proud of the positive contributions that
they have made to the local community and the society at large. It is from these successes
that I am able to go back and realize that Casa Montessori is a microcosm of the type of
harmony that we should all strive for in society-people working together, challenging one
another, and supporting one another in their pursuit for a higher good.
It is disturbing to me to think that the City of Carlsbad and the community at large
may miss out on the benefits that come with allowing a school at 3016 Highland Drive
because there is hesitation to stand up to the false brouhaha that has been trumped up by a
few individuals. I have been a victim of the abuse that has come with being the daughter
of the applicant, including unsolicited verbal assaults and crude gestures. Are these
individuals the ones that are trying to work with the City to better the community and our
society? I think not!
As a previous student of Jan Taylor's I can attest to her outstanding abilities as an
I urge the City Council to dismiss whatever doubt looms about the credibility of
Jan Taylor, my mother. She is an upstanding, honest, accountable woman that answers to
the highest moral authority. How else would she be able to face the fiesh, young faces
that look to her everyday for guidance, assistance and inspiration? The approval of this
project is no longer about codes and regulations. It is about the right of one woman to do
what is reasonable, legal, and in this case, noble with her property and whether the City
Council and community is willing to accept and support that. I encourage you to look at
my mother's impeccable record of 22 years of service and commitment to the community.
I encourage you to look at the unquantifiable benefits that will be gained by present and
future citizens and to wholeheartedly and unabashedly embrace the project so nobly
proposed.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Brynn Taylor W
February 3,2003
Mayor Bud Lewis
Mayor Pro-tern Ramona Finnib
Councilwoman Ann Kulchin
Councilman Matt Hall
Councilman Mark Packard
AGENDAITEM# 10
C: Mayor
, City Council
' ' City Manager
.. : City Attorney
Dear Mayor and City Council Members,
This letter is in support of Jan Taylor's request to open a Montessori school at 3016
Highland Drive, Carlsbad. My family and I have known Mrs. Taylor for over 6 years and
my daughter Cami attended her school in Vista for 4 years. It took much searching just to
find alternative types of education in North County than what could be provided at a
public school. These schools me few ltnd far between, and thus they are priceless. As 8
parent in what I would like to think of as a progressive community, I valued having a
choice like the one her school provided. Getting to know Mrs. Taylor over the years
has only matured our respect for her ability to work with children in a Montessori
environment, and as the director of B private school. She is B person who gives 1 10% to
all of her students, all of the time, a quality which is rarely found in a teacher, Her
integrity and fairness in completing her promises has been shown to us time and time
again. Rules are followed because parents have specifically sought out and value the type
of learning environment that they have chosen for their children. The parents enwmge
and respectfblly co-operate because they want to, not because they have to.
is no better way to help than to support schools that can provide the ability to produce
independent, strong minded, caring individuals that are equipped to handle life. The
presence of her school in your community can only be an asset, and will speak for itself in
years to come. We strongly encourage your suppart ofthe kind of influence and
opportunity a school such as hers could provide. It is onty fair to give parents a choice abut what kind of education they wg~t to provide for their children, it is only fair for
cities to let parents have these choices.
In this day age where children need more and more attention and guidance, there
Sincerely,
Street Address
Gate 3,74 Epsom Ave
Epsom, Auckland
Postal Address
Private Bag 92601
Auckland 1035
Symonds street
Naw 7~aland
28/1/03
Mayor Bud Lewis,
Councilwoman Ramona Finnila,
Councilwoman Ann Kulchin,
Councilman Matt Hall,
Councilman Mark Packard.
Carlsbad City Council
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, California 92008
AGENDA ITEM # 10
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
C: Mayor
I
On a recent visit to the United States to present a paper at the Technology,
Reading and Learning Disabilities Conference I had the privilege of
visiting the Montessori Arts and Sciences presently operated by Jan Taylor
as a large family child care home. During my time there I was extremely
impressed by the quality and range of resources being used, and the
pedagogical skill and enthusiasm of Jan and her staff.
In my work as a pre-service teacher educator I have had the opportunity to
visit schools in New Zealand, Australia, England, Israel and the United
States. Based on what I observed in Jan Taylor’s present institution I
consider that her proposal would rank with the best of those learning
environments.
I believe the proposed Montessori elementary school would offer a very
high quality alternative to the public schools in Carlsbad and that it would
also enhance the quality of life and prestige of Carlsbad. Should her
application be declined not only would Carlsbad be losing educationally,
but it could also miss the opportunity of preserving the original Mission-
Revivalist style bungalow in which it is intended that the school be situated. In New Zealand we have already lost too many of our heritage
buildings, and I would be sad to see the same trend happening in your city.
Yours sincerely
il
Brent Mawson
Senior Lecturer
Centre for Technology Education
Montessori Arts and Sciences
3016 Highland Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008-1915 (760) 434-6440 Fax (740) 434-6440
Project Name: Casa Montessori Elementary
Applicant’s Name: Jan Taylor
The applicant wishes to locate a small Montessori elementary school for
children age 6-12 years of age to 3016 Highland Drive, the southeast corner of Carlsbad Village Drive and Highland.
The proposed school would adapt the existing home to classrooms and a small administrative office. An additional 868 square foot building is planned for additional classroom space. It would match the roof line and exterior of the existing building. The existing garage is to be adapted for a multipurpose room with a staff workroom above.
The proposed school would basically follow the traditional school year as set by Carlsbad Unified School District and offer summer workshops.
The school day would last for six and one half hours. An extended day program would provide childcare for students from 8:OOa.m. to 5:30p.m.
The school will function as an individualized program for a maximum of 36
children in grades 1-6 and serves as an extension of developmental programs provided for 30 years at 3470 Madison Street.
The students use hands-on equipment and materials following the
philosophy of Maria Montessori. Universal human values, community service and compassion for others is part of the philosophy.
Presently the applicant operates a Large Family Childcare Home for 14
children. It is required by the Department of Social Services that there
always be at least two care givers present.
The traffic generated presently would be calculated at 56 trips for children,
4 trips for staff, 10 for family and 10 for visitors per day. This total is 80. The
traffic engineer has estimated the school would generate is 162 trips. The
difference is very low impact by the industry standard.
Sunday, February 02,2003
c: Mayor city council
City Manager
City Attorney city of carlsbad
City Council
6
Carlsbad CA 92008
I am writing in support of Jan Taylor’s application for a Montessori school on the
corner of Highland and Carlsbad Village Drive. I would be there tonight myself but
as you know our son Alex has been deployed to Kuwait and my daughter-in-law
needs help with the triplets in Savannah.
Children and their needs have always been at the top of my list for our community.
This community has always prided itself on its caring for children. Adding an
opportunity fbr children to attend a Montessori school in our neighborhood seems
like a ‘?IO brainer” to me. If children and schools are not located in a neighborhood,
than where?
It is important to remember that the business everyone keeps referring to IS an
elementary school.
The site on Highland and Carlsbad Village Drive seems like a great transitional use,
not out of character with the Beautiful Savior Luthern school located just one block
M the East m exactly the same location along Carisbad Village Drive. Land use is
the question.
Several people have mentioned that their land value will somehow be diminished. I
think the opposite it true. There will be no activity on weekends or in the
evenings. With strong CUP des and proper landscaping the site will be greatly
improved.
I also think it is important to recognize the important historic nature of this site.
You have an opportunity to preserve that site. If the school goes away, we could be
faced with the sale of the property and two or three large homes could be pW on
the site without any monitoring. I would rather preserve the character of the
neighborhood by supporting the school.
The traffic studies have proven that the trafBc can be managed. The additional
traffic projected seems like a large number but managed well, I am sure it would I
not even be noticed. People are always &aid of what they have not seen. This city i
council has been very successhl in making sure that the plafls for any land
development in CarlSM are of the highest quality and fit well into the surrounding
I
I
I
-
I 4 neighborhood. You have demonstrated that over and over again. Ms Taylor has
been operating a large family day care center there for several months without
impact to the existing neighbors.
Some people have tried to make this CUP application an indictment of character. That is not what land use is all about. Ms Taylor has carefully documented each
allocation. She has been absolved of them all. Her record is impeccable but that is
not the question before you tonight.
This is a land use question and should be looked at in the light of what's best for
Carlsbad. You have an opportunity to preserve and improve a historic site and
provide an additional education opportunity for our community. I know this is a
hard decision but I know you will make the right one.
Thanks for all that each of you do for the citizens of Carlsbad. It is a difficult task
but one that validates the high quality of life we have all come to expect. You have
always proved yourselves by doing what's in the best interested of all the
community.
Warm Regards,
Montessori Arts and Sciences
Montessori Arts B Sciences, Inc. Facility #376612582
3016 Highland Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008-1915 (760) 434-6440 Fax (760) 434-6440
January 31,2003
Mayor Bud Lewis Carlsbad City Council
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
AGENDA ITEM # b&ph ?& 11
C: Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
U
Dear Mayor Lewis,
Enclosed are some materials concerning the proposed Casa Montessori
Elementary project application for Conditional Use Permit 01-12. Perhaps you can
take some time to look overthem and let me know if there is any other information that
may be useful in the decision-making process.
We have,worked diligently to meet all the neighborhood compatibility issues.
The CEQA negative declaration showed the proposed project will result in less than
significant impact to the neighborhood or the surrounding community. 1 feel confident
that the project will have merit and benefit to the community.
I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the city and to contribute positive
energy toward service and quality of life with this unique educational option for those
that have the need or desire.
I look forward to meeting with you prior to the City Council hearing on February
11, 2003. Please feel free to call for any questions you may like answered.
Sincerely, 4
Jan Taylor -
Reasons to support Casa Montessori Elementary
1.
2.
3.
4.
5,
6.
7.
8,
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
1
Benefits the community beyond the. immediate neighborhood
Alternate educational option
Preserves the comer by keeping the property intact
Adaptive reuse of a landmark building
Improved appearance with landscaping and screening
Provides recreation and childcare opportunities
Allows for the continuity of Casa Montessori de
Carkbad Preschool and Kindergarten to Elementary
Carlsbad Village Drive is a main artery that was designed to handle the small increase in flow
Provides a cornerstone gateway to the residential neighborhood
Good buffer from Carlsbad Village Drive to homes
No use on weekends, nights and holidays
Maintaining the Olde Carlsbad atmosphere
Planned to encourage use of library, arts office, and civic offices
Improved safety at entrance and circulation on site
Proposed good practices to rninirnalize impact on the neighborhood
1. Staggered drop-off and pick-up tirnes
2. Staff assisting children in and out of cars.
3, Performances held off-site
4. Open Houses and Parent Meetings will be held at
5, Providing sufficient space for 10 cars to park on site separate tirnes
for off-peak hours in addition to 4 staff and 1
handicapped space
6, Enhanced entrance to Highland Drive
7. Landscaping will screen parking
8. Visual character of site will be improved
9. Majority of use is for quiet study
10.Modified sporting activities to keep equipment on site
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING & TRAFFIC ENGINEERING
July 25,2002
Ms. Janann Taylor
135 1 Pine Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008-1 94 1 D&A Ref. No: 010402
Subject: Casa Montessori School in the City of Carlsbad - Reduced Project Trip Generation
Dear Ms. Taylor:
Per your request, Darnell & Associates, Inc. has evaluated the trip generation associated with the revised
Carlsbad Casa Montessori School project which reduced the size of the proposed school from 45 students to
36 students and reduced the number of teachedstaff from five (5) to four (4). As summarized in Table 1,
assuming the number oftotal daily deliveries remains at one (1); the revised project will generate approximately
162 average daily trips, 78 morning peak hour trips, and 76 afternoon peak hour trips. This is a reduction of
40 average daily trips and 19 morning and afternoon peak hour trips over what was previously analyzed in our
April 22,2002 report.
TABLE 1
TRIP GENERATION SUMMARY (WORST CASE)
Students: Doily: 4 trips per student; AM: 50% of daily (50% in: 50% out); PM: 50% of daily (50% in: 50% out)
TeacherdStaff Daily: 4 trips per teocherktafl, AM: 25% of daily (25% in: 0% out); PM: 25% of daily (0% in: 25%:out)
Average Daily AM Peak PM Peak Land Use Density Traffic Total In
Previous Project Trip Generation Calculation (Per April 22,2002 Report)
Casa Montessori
00 0 1 1 2 2 1 Delivery Deliveries
os 5 0 5 5 20 5 TeacherdShff TeachcrdStaff
45 45 90 45 45 90 180 45 students
Total Trips: 202 97 51 46 50 45 95
Revised Project Trip Generation Calculation (Per April 22, 2002 Report)
Casa Montessori
00 0 1 1 2 2 , 1 Delivery Deliveries
04 4 0 4 4 16 4 TeocherdStaff TeacherdStaff
36 36 72 36 36 72 144 36 students
Total Trips: 1 62 78 41 37
10 9 19 9 10 19 40 Net Difference (Previous - Revised):
40 36 76
~ ~~
1446 FRONT STREET SUITE 300 SAN DIEGO, CA 921 01
E-mail: BD492@aol.com
PHONE: 61 9-233-9373 FAX: 61 9-233-4034
t
Ms. Janann Taylor
July 23,2002
Page 2
c
In addition to reducing the number of students and staff, the revised project modified the proposed site plan to
provide extra on-site stacking by reducing the number of on-site parking spaces from 10 to 5 (four standard
and one handicap) Reducing the number of parking spaces on-site allows the site to accommodate one lane
for stacking along the outside for the pick-up/drop-off zone plus a 14 foot travel along the inside. As currently
designed, the revised site plan can accommodate stacking for thirteen (13) vehicles along the outside stacking
lane plus approximately ten (1 0) additional vehicles within the travel lane. Therefore the revised site plan can
provide adequate storage for up to 23 vehicles on-site within the stacking lanes and the internal travel lane.
As discussed in the April 22, 2002 report it is estimated that there will be a vehicle occupancy rate of
approximately 1.3 students per vehicle. Assuming a vehicle occupancy rate of 1.3 students per vehicle, the
reviscd Carlsbad Montessori school will have a total demand ofapproximately 25 vehicles (i.e. 36 studentdl .3
students per vehicle = 27.7 vehicles). If the demand of 28 vehicles is equally spread over three 20 minute
intervals in the morning (8:30 - 850 AM, 850 -9:lO AM, and 9:lO -9:30AM) and three 20 minute intervals
in the afternoon (3:OO - 3:20 PM, 3:20 PM - 3:40 PM, and 3:40 PM to 4:OO PM), there will be a demand of
approximately nine (9) to ten (IO) vehicles per 20 minute increment. As previously discussed, this demand can
adequately be accommodated on site.
In conclusion, our April 22, 2002 study found that the previously proposed project (45 students) would not
significantly impact any intersections or roadway segments. Since the revised project (36 students) will
generate 40 fewer daily trips and 19 fewer peak hour trips and the site plan can accommodate stacking for an
additional eleven (1 1) as compared to the previously proposed project the impacts associated with the revised
project will be less. Therefore, the conclusions of our April 22, 2002 study are still valid for the revised
project.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the ofice.
Sincerely,
DARNELL & ASSOCIATES, INC.
Vicki S. Root, P.E.
Senior Transportation Engineer
Firm Principal
RCE 22338
Date Signed: 3 / i!y'
BED/vsr/lag
01 WM-CarfsbadMontessori-ReducedProjectSiz~~~.~2~7
c
Project of Merit versus Campaign of Allegations
The Conditional Use Permit Application for a small, private elementary school
at the corner of Carlsbad Village Drive and Highland has withstood a rigorous
campaign by immediate neighbors to discredit the reputation of the applicant and find
fault with the activities of the property owner and applicant.
Several alleged viofations and character- attacks have passed erroneous
information to the public servants and the residents of Carlsbad.
Please review this timeline of misconceptions created by a few opposed to the
school in a residential neighborhood.
1. May, 1999- Michelle Levy claimed that schools or businesses do not belong in a
residential zone.
Clarification/ Action: City Code Chapter 21 -42.010 Permitted Uses
“The following uses may be permitted by approval of a conditional use permit in
(2)All zones including residential, with the exception of the community facilities
the following zones:
zone.
(c) Public and private schools
2. April 20, 2000- Property owner, E. L. Geissinger, attempted to clean property of
termited trees, debris, overgrowth and smooth out gopher damage prior to planting
grass and landscaping. Upon complaint by Michelle Levy, the Public Works
Department determined that in fact too much dirt was moved.
Clarification/ Action: Property owner met with Joe McMahon and agreed to
immediately put up an erosion fence to eliminate any risk to health, safety and welfare
of the public and return the property to its original grade using preexisting points and
compacted to an eight-five percent (85%) with positive drainage. A certified soils
engineer certified this in a letter report on June 6, 2000.
Case closed June 9, 2000 with property owner in compliance.
3. September 4, 2002- Zoning Neighbor complaint that school age children may
not attend a Large Family Child Care Home.
October 2, 2002 - Planning Commission approved Conditional Use Permit 01-
12 based on findings for a small private school: Resolution 5314 and Resolution
531 5, Mitigated Negative Declaration & Mitigated Monitoring
Clarification/ Action: Inspection by Code Enforcement and investigation
by City Attorney. Applicant provided information clarifying guidelines for Large Family
Child Care Homes. Applicant met with Code Enforcement and City Attorney on
October 30, 2002.
October 10, 2002 California State Department of Social Services, Community
Care Licensing Division made an unannounced visit to the Home and found no
violations.
The Child Care Home Permit does not prohibit tutoring school-aged children.
Case closed with finding that applicant is compliant and within guidelines of
City of Carlsbad and State of California on November 12, 2002.
4. November 8, 2002 Neighbor complained that property owner had converted
garage into habitable space.
Code Enforcement officer checked with resident and determined that in fact the
garage was still a garage with doors that open.
Resident and property owner were in compliance.
5. November 12, 2002 Michelle Levy made the complaint that more than 14
children were in the Child Care Home.
November 14, 2002- Mike Peterson, Code Enforcement and Inspections, sat in
an unmarked truck across the street to determine the count. Data on record shows
cars dropping off children approximately every 10 minutes. Total number of children
eleven (1 1 ) children.
Applicant was in compliance.
November 18, 2002- Mike Peterson repeated the procedure to check the
number of children. The count was 13 children .
Applicant was in compliance.
6. November 12, 2002- Letter from Deputy City Attorney, Julia Coleman, dated
November 12, was sent. The letter stated that she recommended the case be closed
and that there was insufficient evidence that a private school was operating.
The November 12 letter also stated that upon inspection it was noticed that the
garage appeared to be used for supplemental space for child care activities. The
applicant was instructed to contact the Building Department within five business days
as this was a violation.
\
,
November 13, 2002 - Applicant received the letter and contacted the Building
Department and the State of California Department of Social Services.
Dana Lovelace, Department of Social Services, informed the City of Carlsbad
that it is a policy of the State that a garage may be used for supplemental space for
Childcare activities.
Clarification / Action: Applicant ceased use of garage for Childcare activities.
Applicant was compliant with the findings of the City of Carlsbad prior to five business
days from notification.
November 19, 2002 - Letter was sent from Code Enforcement stating the City’s
ordinance prohibits the use of a garage for Childcare activities. In order to remedy the
violation, resident must remove carpet, tables and chairs from the garage within 21
calendar days of the date of the letter. In addition, it was stated to immediately stop
using the garage for Childcare activities.
Commissioner Jeff Segall visited on November 20 at 12:30 p.m. Children were
playing outside and making pumpkin pies in the main house.
Letter was received November 20, 2002 at 4:OO p.m.
Planning Commission denied approval of Conditional Use Permit.
Tables, chairs and carpet were removed. Carpet was removed.
December 18, 2002 - Inspection of garage. Applicant was compliant. Case
closed.
7. Michelle Levy has stated in Public Hearing at City Council that applicant has
advertised a school at 3016 Highland Drive in the Pacific Bell Yellow Pages.
Clarification/ Action: In fact the advertisement is for Childcare for children aged
6-12 and makes no mention of “School”. The Yellow Pages advertising manager
recommended not using the Facility number. The contracts are set in the spring prior
to the July edition. The advertisement was intended to inform about the Large Family
Child Care Home since the Conditional Use Permit was pending.
Applicant is Compliant and has only tried to maintain a livelihood and use property
within a citizen’s rights. All alleged code violations have been quickly cleared and it is
the Applicant’s and Owner’s policy and cQrnrqi\Vqnt tq always be in compliance and
maintain good relations in the City. ’
!I .!
Montessori Arts and Sciences
Montessori Art$ & Scienccs Inr
3016 Highland Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008-1915 (760)4346440ph/fax
Background to Casa Montessori Relationship with North County Tabernacle of Praise and Mr. Joseph Miraflor
Casa Montessori had been renting the property at 1930 Sunset Drive
for 17 years when ownership transferred to the No. County Tabernacle of
Praise in March, 1999.
At the time of sale a list of assets owned by Casa Montessori was
provided to the new owners. The new owners also expressed its desire to
continue to offer the facility to Casa for lease.
The new owners, three months later, increased the rent by nearly
100% and indicated a new lease agreement would be presented for the
2001 -02 academic year.
The Tabernacle failed to produce a lease, despite numerous
requests, seriously impacting Casa Montessori's business for the coming
year. After consultation with the with its legal counsel, Casa gave hotice
and began moving out. During the move, the Tabernacle requested Casa
stay and presented a new lease, but indicated there would be some
restrictions on use of the property because of their intent to run a charter
school during the same hours of operation.
The suitability of this arrangement eroded during the lease term as
the Tabernacle imposed more and more restriction on Casa's activities,
breaching the rights guaranteed in the lease agreement.
After deciding to end the lease at the end of the one year term, Casa
made plans to remove the assets it owned such as playground equipment.
The Tabernacle responded by locking up access to the equipment. I,
During the course of its relationship with the various owners of the property including the Tabernacle, Casa never failed to pay rehts and Work
collaboratively to upgrade the facility. .,.(, Casa : I I W86 ':I:. , regqrd&c( . , g$fl gbod tenqft?
by the previous owners. ', 'I
1 '. I4
. I, , ' ,. :I I 6: 1: :I) ... !) .
The Tabernacle of Praise did not negotiate in good faith with Casa
Montessori, and used threatening and intimidating tactics that seriously
jeopardized the economic security of the business.
Further to this the Tabernacle failed to maintain its obligations under the lease requiring Casa to hire landscaping services and pay for maintenance and repairs covered under the lease agreement.
During the time of this interaction , the Tabernacle was represented
either by Mr. Miraflor, his son or his wife.
The applicant has not responded to Mr. Miraflor’s characterization of
the relationship and the retraction of the letter prepared by his son, the
business manager, supporting the applicant.
The applicant has no intention of presenting a public response to Mr.
Miraflor and wishes to make it clear that no outstanding financial or other
relationship issues exist between the parties. The applicant does, however, request the City Council consider this summary of the relationship as an
accurate representation and give the appropriate consideration to Mr. Miraflor’s disparaging and emotionally charged comments presented at the Planning Commission Hearing on November 20.
The applicant’s counsel can provide copies of communication with the
Tabernacle, if requested.
P 1 TABERNACLE OF PRAISE
1930 SUNSET DR. VISTA, CA. 92083 ,./ ._. a. ,., ..,. 1 ’ .
. I. ..
LitilSDdL:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
PLANNING COMMISIONERS
1200 CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.
CARLSBAD, CA. 92008
JULY 23,2002
DEAR COMMISIONERS,
I UNDERSTAND THAT JAN TAYLOR IS IN THE PROCESS OF
CARLSBAD. TABERNACLE OF PRAISE HAS WORKED WITH JAN SINCE
1998. WITH JAN AS THE DIRECTOR, THE SCHOOL LEASED
CLASSROOMS, PLAYGROUND, SPORTSFIELD AND PARKING LOT FOR
SCHOOL DAYS. SHARING THE SPACE, TABERNACLE OF PRAISE USED
THE SPACE FOR SUNDAY SCHOOL AND OTHER CHURCH RELATED
ACTIVITIES ON THE WEEKENDS AND WEDNESDAY NIGHTS.
APPLYING FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 01-12 IN THE CllY OF
IN SEPTEMBER 2001, SUNSET LEARNING CENTER WAS
ESTABLISHED AND SHARED SPACE WITH CASA MONTESSORI FOR THE
EFFECTIVE EDUCATOR WHO IS CONCERNED ABOUT QUALITY OF
ENVIRONMENT AND RESPECT FOR NEIGHBORS. I KNOW THAT JAN
TAYLOR WILL COMPLY WITH ANY REQUIREMENTS REQUESTED BY THE
CITY.
ACADEMIC YEAR 2001-2002. I RECOMMEND JAN TAYLOR AS A HIGHLY
THE FAMILIES WHO WORK WITH CASA MONTESSORI HAVE
ALWAYS BEEN SUPPORTIVE OF OUR NEEDS AND RQUESTS. TRAFFIC
AND PAKING WERE WELL MANAGED. I UNDERSTAND MONTESSORt TO
BE AN INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATIONAL OPTION. THE CARS ARRIVED AND
DEPARTED IN A STAGGERED MANNER, BY NATURE OF THE SCHOOL.
OFTEN, FAMILIES WOULD CARPOOL.
JAN TAYLOR AND HER EXCELLENT STAFF WORKED DILIGENTLY
TO KEEP OUR CHURCH AND GROUNDS PROFESSIONALLY MAINTAINED.
JAN ALSO HELPED US KEEP THE FACILITY SECURE.
N MIRAFLOR
BUSINESS MANAGER
KT-01-2082 16:44 SKOE
=Q + SAN DIEGO COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION
6401 UNDA VISTA ROAD. SAN DIEGO. CALIFORNIA 921 11-7399 (858) 292-3500
Superintendent of Schools
I\udy M. Casnvino. Ed.0
September 29.2002
Barbara Kennedy
Planning Commission
I 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I would like to provide you and the comission with valuable input concerning the Montessori Arts and
Sciences at 30 16 Highland Drive in Carlsbad.
Jan Taylor called my office at the beginning Of September to confirm that shc had filed dl the necessary
documents concerning the operation of a Large Family Child Care Facility.
On September 12,2002,I made an unannounced visit to the facility to observe and obtain fust hand knowledge of the program.
1 want to be dear, that it is not my role to comment on City Codes or Ordinmas. nor the direction that
the commission desires to take. Again my task is to focus on the program and environment at the time of
the visit.
I am pleased to report that the overall climate of the facility was outstmding. It is superior in areas of
cfeanlintss, organization and supervision of the children. Each arm is well maintained. The children
were busy at various tasks and projects and were proud of thcir accomplishments. Further, althougb the c~mplex does not fit the traditional model of a sahool, it is obvious that within thc Child Care conccpt,
there is learning, structure and positive interaction among the children. Thc fact that Mrs. Taylor holds a
Certified California Teaching Crcdcntial adds an additionat dimension of cxpcrtisc.
Overall, the program meets and cxoceds my expectations of Child Care with a leaning cmmpontnt. I
would be plem to provide additional data upon requcst,
Sincerely,
Stephen P. Fraire. Coordinator
Child Welfare snd Attendance
Board of Education
Vick AqY.lor Ernesr J. Menburg, Jr. hen Foy Jim Kelly John Win
SERVICE AND LEADERsHlP
TOTRL P.02
August 27,2001
To Whom It May Concern:
Ms. Jan Taylor has recently informed the Carlsbad Unified School District of her intent to place
a Montessori School for 6-12 year old children in a private residence located at the comer of
Carlsbad Village Drive and Highland. The program that she will offer is based upon sound
research and a proven track record.
The Carlsbad Unified School District would support her efforts to obtain a conditional use permit
to establish this school. We would see no conflict with our district’s offerings and programs.
This particular location is not in close proximity to any of our current schools and would not
pose a traffic issue for any Carlsbad schools which normally have high traffic volume at drop off
and pick up times.
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding our support of Ms. Taylor’s efforts to
provide alternative private school programs.
Cheryl Ernst
Superintendent
4260 Sunnyhili Drive
Carlsbad,.
California 92008
July 1 7, 2002
Planning Commissioners
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, California. 92008
Dear Plarmirlg Corrlrrlissiorlers:
Montessori de Vista School for a conditional use permit to opcrate the
school at 30 16 Highland Avenue in Carlsbad. As the forlner director of
both schools bcforc rctircmcnt, 1 know that it will bc a grcat scrvicc to
parents to have both schools so much closer together that they have been for
the past years.
I an1 writing lo express my support Tor the application by Casa
I think that a small private school would be an excellent use for this
older property and will be a good buffer to the neighborhood from the trailk
on Carlsbnd Village Drive. There are professional and civic buildings close
by and a church with another small school in the next block. A school such
as this will be a good neighbor.
I have known Mrs. Taylor for twenty-five years and know that she
will provide a good service to the children of Carlsbad and their families.
Sincerely,
Avrii Ferguson
University
Fakultat fur Gesundheitswissenschaften
School of Public Health - WHO
Collaborating Center
Work Group 5- Management in Health
Services
University Bielefeld w P.O. Box 10 01 31 33501
Bielefeld Germany
Mayor
Mr Bud Lewis
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
U.S.A.
Prof. Dr. Bernhard J.
Guntert
Phone: +49/521-106-6989/4356 Fax: +49/521-106-8053 e-mail: bernhard.guentert@uni-
bielefeld.de Internet: http//www.uni- bielefeld.de/gesundhw
Bielefeld, the 12th, September 02
Dear Mr Lewis
Three years ago for six month we have been living in San Diego for a sabbatical
leave, my wife and I spent at UCSD. After having checked other facilities as well, we
felt very fortunate that we had found the Casa Montessori School in Vista, where our
two kids went to school during this time. As an experienced teacher herself, my wife
was delighted that this school was following high educational and disciplinary stan-
dards. Needless to mention, that the staff was highly qualified.
Two years ago we came to Southern California for our summer vacation and our
kids have been attending the summer school program at Casa Montessori de Vista.
This year, we spent three weeks in Carlsbad, because Mrs. Jan Taylor has moved
the Montessori Arts and Science Summer Program to their home at
.anBF2al&keet. Our kids just loved to spend two weeks of their vacation at this
particular, very special school.
Like in the earlier years, we have been impressed by the high educational standard,
the good mixture of the group of students and the very special working atmosphere
during the program. Our experience was, not only this summer but earlier also in
Vista, that the students aqd their families were conscientious and always willing to
comply with any regulations required by the school. The school staff in Vista was
always very effective at following up thoroughly with what was requested at the
rented facilities there. All the children have been very well served at the Montessori
Arts and Sciences program during July this year at the new location.
With this very positive experience we would highly recommend approval of the Con-
ditional Use Permit for Casa de Montessori de Carlsbad. Not only because this is
adding to the attraction of Carlsbad for visiting scientists with children, but because
the Casa Montessori is providing a special environment for learning and developing
children for all groups of the population.
With best regards
Yours
Bernhard J. Guntert, Prof. Dr.oec./MHA
1
t-l$
Gcoflrey Bell D.D.S
3686 Highland Dr.
Carlsbad Ca.
Carlsbad City Council
1200 Eh Avc
Carlsbad Ca. 92008
Dear Carlsbad City Council,
I an1 writing to support the applicatioll by Jau Taylor to sitc a Montcssori school on the
corncr of Highland and Carlsbad Villagc Drive. ‘Ihc proposcd sitc is located within an
arca that has city serviccs i.c. thc library, city hall, and a firc station, and scvcral
churches, some of which also have schools.
The school would be on the cdgc of a residcntial t~cighborhood but thc city has a history
of locating large public schools, ex. Carlsbad High School, and rcligious schools like
Beautiful Savior in residential areas. To deny this pcrmit would imply a prejudice
against school placcnlent solcly bccausc of its private and secular charactcr.
If you deny this permit then thc Carlsbad School District’s application for placement of
the ncw Village Academy 011 the corner of Magnolia and Vallcy should also be rcjectcd
given thc impacts of this projcct would greatly cxcccd thc impact of thc Taylor’s project.
This is a mattcr of fairness and thc cqual application of standards. If it is good cnough
for the public sector, and good enough for thc rcligious sector then it should bc good
enough for the private sector.
Sinccrcly
December 3 1,200 1
Barbara Kennedy
City of Carlsbad
Planning Department
1635 Faraday
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Regarding the property at 301 6 Highland Drive and application for a Montessori
School at that site. Schools belong in neighborhoods as are all the other schools in
Carlsbad. Lots adjacent to Carlsbad Village Drive are a buffer area and Carlsbad
Village Drive has a ffre station, city hall, 2 churches, library, and soon Senior
Living all within one block of this property. My only request is that Highland
Drive be widened to 18 feet on the east side from the corner of Carlsbad Village
Drive south for 150 feet with and asphalt berm connecting to the present street
with diagonally after that. No Concrete curb, gutter or sidewalk. This will allow
traffic turning onto Highland Drive heading south to pass cars waiting to turn left
into the school parking lot. This will not affect any trees or utilities and the rural
flavor of the neighborhood will not be lost. I have viewed the plans for the school
and find all other aspects adequate. I live on the corner diagonally opposite from
this property.
2987 Highland Drive
Carlsbad, Ca 92008
Gerry Matter
3530 Avondale Cr.
Carlsbad, CA 92008
November 20,2002
City of Carlsbad
Planning Conmission
1635 Faraday
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I-
Subject: Montessori Arts and Sciences Center
Dear Commissioners,
Much is being said about the existence of the Montessori Center on Nighland
Drive. City requirements on zoning are being met by Jan Taylor and I will not
comment in this regard.
I would, however, like to express my views on the children attending the Center.
They came to my attention during a doccnt tour I conducted at a local art
nluseum. I have led docent tours for many groups of children, but at the end of
this one, I realized this group had greatly impressed me. They were well behaved,
intelligent, creative, inquisitive and provided me with a rewarding experience.
Watching children blossom is inspiring.
I
As a 24 year resident of Olde Carlsbad, I travel I-Iighland Dr. often. Change in any
area is uncomfortable. I have personally opposed changes impacting my ncighborhood
over the years. I have learned change is inevitable and compromise always wins the day.
These children are an asset to the community and they deservc not only a chance,
but the respect of their neighbors.
Vely truly yours,
Gerry Matter
-1 cc: Carlsbad City Council
\ 1. Jan Taylor
Janurary 11,2002
City of Carlsbad
Barbara Kennedy
Planning Department
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, Ca 92009
Re: 3016 Highland Drive
Dear Barbara,
The purpose of this letter is to support Mrs. Jan Taylor in providing a Montessori
education located at her property at 3016 Highland Drive.
My husband and I have reviewed the site plan, architectural plans and floor plans of the
intended facility. The landscape and the “keeping” of the appearance of the former
Mayor Dunne’s home would not only fit in the neighborhood but compliment the
neighborhood as well. The property built in 1938 appears as a schoolhouse and
encourages a small, private school. If this building were torn down and two houses
with two granny flats were built on this site, the aesthetic qualities of this property would
certainly be missed.
We are familiar with the Montessori education as we have one child currently at Casa
Montessori de Carlsbad and one at Casa Montessori de Vista. Montessori method
encourages each child to work on hidher own curriculum. This being the case, drop
offs tend to vary versus everybody showing up for a class at the same time.
Carlsbad would be fortunate to offer the quality of education that Jan Taylor’s school
provides. Jan is commited to the education of our children. Her passion for her work
is apparent through the results she produces with her students. She is cornrnited to
excellence!
It is important to give the parents diverse options for the education of the children and
obvioulsy, Carlsbad is in need of more schools. As parents and Carlsbad locals, (we
have lived in Carlsbad for 35 years) we fully support this project and look forward to a
favorable approval for Mrs. Taylor.
Thank you for your consideration.
’ erely, 7”
Tim and Debra John#
3275 Meadowlark Lane
Carlsbad. Ca 92008
The Planning Commission
City of Carlsbad
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
November 12,2002
Subject: Conditional Use Permit CUPOI-12
3016 Highland Drive
Casa Montessori Elementary, a private school
Dear Commission Members,
I would like to express my strong support for Jan Taylor's proposal to provide the City of Carlsbad
a healthy and inspiring environment for young children to grow and learn on Highland Drive.
My wife and I have lived here in Old Carlsbad for nearly 17 years. Our children went to the areas
public schools. One reason we moved to Carlsbad was for the schools. Top quality education is
a powerful attraction for parents wanting the best for their children. As Commissioners, I would
expect that one factor you consider when evaluating a project is how it helps the reputation of
Carlsbad and whom it attracts.
This school is an important and valuable addition to Carlsbad. Dreams are important. This
dream for Casa Montessori School is worthy of your support. The property and house are intact
and will remain intact. This immeasurably helps to maintain the "Old Carlsbad" residential appeal
we value. I understand this property once belonged to a former mayor.
This small school's impact (traffic and noise) will be negligible. Just up and down Carlsbad
Village Drive are the Lutheran Church, the Carlsbad Library, and the Fire Station. Two blocks
north on Highland are Buena Vista ES and the Jehovah's Witnesses Temple. The traffic impact
from Casa Montessori is minor even when compared to any of these facilities.
This project absolutely will benefit the community. It will help children that may not do well in
larger class environments. And, good schools attract top-notch residents.
In weighing this dream that Jan has, consider the benefits to the community and to the future of
its residents: they are immeasurable. Imagine the young students, with their dreams blooming.
And twenty, thirty years from now, they may return to Carlsbad to raise their families (as many of
us have) in the special environment we have. The dreaming is then sustained long into the
future.
The purpose of the Planning Commission is to evaluate and exercise its vision for the future
improved quality of Carlsbad. This proposal will significantly add to the quality of Carlsbad.
The future is in our young ones. To help them learn and think and "do good works" is vital to the
quality of our civilization. Please approve the Conditional Use Permit for Jan Taylor.
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(w) 858.573.5846
(h) 760.729.5526
cc: 0 Ms. Jan Taylor
Mayor Bud Lewis
Ann J. Kulchin
Ramona Finnila
Matt Hall
Julianne Nygaard
4pjtaylor@msn.com
From: <ZDwelley@aol.com>
To: <4PJTaylor@msn.com>
Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2001 335 PM Subject: (no subject)
12-28-01
To whom it may concern:
I am writing this letter as a vote of confidence for the project at 3016 Highland Dr. Casa
Montessori elementary.
Jan Taylor and her school has proven itself over the years as a reputable and conscientious
business entity.
The project fits in the neighborhood, and to that extent, has vowed to keep the integrity of the
architecture and surrounding grounds.
I have no problem with this project.
Sincerely:
Zell Dwelley
2771 Wilson St.
Carlsbad, CA 92008
12/29/200 1
Barbara Kennedy
Planning Department
City of Carlsbad
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92009
December 3 1,200 1
Dear Ms. Kcnnedy,
We are writing in support of the proposed Montessori school at 3016 Highland Drive
which we understand is currently in Staff Review for a conditional use permit.
We are property owners on Pine Avenuc near Highland Drive. We see the proposal as a
win-win for the residents of, and the city of, Carlsbad. Schools belong in the heart of a
neighborhood, and this addition would offer parents a choice not currently available for
their children's education.
The proposed site is favorable as it is near a main artcry, Carlsbad Villagc Drive, and
neighborhood traffic impact should be minimal. Children, such as ours, will even be able
to walk to school.
The area already supports commercial entities such as Cole Library, the Fire Department,
Good Saviour Lutheran Church and School, the approved assisted care facility, among
others.
We believe the landscaping plan is adequate and will provide a residcntial appearancc to
the historical landmark house.
We support this project and hope that the Staff Review will as well.
Sincerely,
Paul and Tiffany Ciamache
1436 Pine Avenue
760-434-6 162
Laurence A. Senseman, M.D.
1365 Pine Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
,I
, ./*,,./ .. /;7, 3 [+,J ’
/
August 27,2001
To Whom It May Concern:
Ms. Jan Taylor has recently informed the Carlsbad Unified School District of her intent to place
a Montessori School for 6-12 year old children in a private residence located at the comer of
Carlsbad Village Drive and Highland. The program that she will offer is based upon sound
research and a proven track record.
The Carlsbad Unified School District would support her efforts to obtain a conditional use permit
to establish this school. We would see no conflict with our district's offerings and programs.
This particular location is not in close proximity to any of our current schools and would not
pose a traffic issue for any Carlsbad schools which normally have high traffic volume at drop off
and pick up times.
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding our support of Ms. Taylor's efforts to
provide alternative private school programs.
Cheryl Ernst
Superintendent
2/9/03 e: Mayor City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
Peter J. Gray
402 1 Canario Street #133
Carlsbad, CA 92008
City of Carlsbad Re: Conditional Use Permit #0112
(Montessori Arts and Sciences, 301 G Highland Drive, Carhbad, CA 92008)
We first heard about Jan Taylor and the Montessori program over a year ago, then
after relocating to a thriving part of the Carlsbad community, we were thrilled to
have the opportunity to involve our daughter in such a positive and intimate learning
environment. Carlsbad supports some of the most envied public and private schools
in the system, which only serves to enhance its image and the continued investment
in this great city. Sometimes it feels like the overall education system has lost
direction through the lack of its leaders paying attention to what impacts the future
of our littlest of leaders, our educators, and ultimately our society. Not so in the city
of Carlsbad! Leaders have obviously dared to display the necessary foresight, hard
work, and initiative to provide students and educators with the opportunities and
choices necessary in an emerging community. Jan Taylor is an outstanding example
of this tenacity as she strives to improve the lives of her students with a holistic
approach to learning and displays her passion for education through creativity and an
eagerness to serve her community. We should all be very thankful that this individual
has the positive energy and commitment to bringing a little bit more distinction and
spark to the closely-knit community and the children of Carlsbad.
Being a high school graduate of an Arts Academy, I quickly recognized the distinct
advantages when attending university; skills such as creative problem-solving concept
comprehension, and self-confidence, were qualities that had been specifically
developed through a specialized style of education. On attaining a BA in Fine Arts
degree I went on to become an executive supporting the largest corporate advertising
agency in the world (83 agencies) and then on to my current position as VI) of
Operations for The Ken Blanchard Companies-who’s mission it is to build world
leaders in business. I am truly indebted to those educators and government officials
that dared to sanction another option for education and thereby help provide a
future for a community.
Sincerely,
Peter J. Gray
ALL RECEIVED
Thursday, February 06,2003
ACE NIZ...ik’b,,yi; 1 0
c: Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attornev
Dear Mayor Lewis,
I am writing this letter in regards to the issue of whether or not Montessori Arts and
Sciences shall become an official school. Last September, I decided to send my eight-
year-old son, Matthew, to Montessori Arts and Sciences. My only regret is that I did not
send him there three years ago.
After three years with Vista schools Matthew was still having difficulty with reading,
basic math, and overall concentration. It is because of the quiet and nurturing
environment provided by Jan Taylor that my son has overcome his learning difficulties
and now excels as a student. In the past five months I have seen the effects of Jan
Taylor’s calm and focused teaching techniques transcend to my son. He is a much happier
and confident person as he too exhibits calm and focused behavior.
As a cancer patient I often feel concerned for my child’s hture. I take comfort in knowing
that, in the event that I may have to undergo difficult treatment, Matthew will be
spending his days in an environment that fosters the type of learning, caring, ethics, and
personal responsibility that we all value.
I ask that you please consider this letter when making your decision as to whether or not
Ms. Taylor and Montessori Arts and Sciences will be allowed to become an official
school. I believe that this fine institution will continue to produce tomorrow‘s outstanding
citizens to the pride of the community and all those involved.
Sincerely,
CC: Mayor Pro-tem Ramona Finnila
Councilwoman Ann Kulchin
Councilman Matt Hall
Councilman Mark Packard
To Whom It May Concern:
We are writing this letter in support of Ms. Jan Taylor who has proposed the opening of a
small Montessori elementary school on the southwest comer of Carlsbad Village Drive
and Highland.
We have known Ms. Taylor since we had our children enrolled at Casa Montessori in
Carlsbad. We were extremely pleased with the education that our children received at
this school. We have always thought of Jan as an excellent teacher and human being who
truly cares about her students. We always found her to be a person of high integrity.
We currently reside at 1363 Pine Avenue and go by the proposed school site on a regular
basis. We feel that the location that has been selected is appropriate given the other
school and city service buildings that are close to the proposed school. We feel that the
impact on the community will be minimal in terms of traffic but tremendous in terms of
providing continuity for the studentiwho currently attend Casa Montessori.
We both work in public education and believe in allowing parents to have choices when
looking for educational programs for their children. This is what Ms. Taylor is proposing
to offer this wonderful community. She wants to give and not take away. Ms. Taylor has
demonstrated a genuine concern for the respect of others in the community by her
planning of the school facility and grounds.
We support Ms. Taylo?s proposal to enrich this great City of Carlsbad by providing a
quality school for its children. Please do the right thing and approve her proposal.
ms6 E. De Anda
1363 Pine Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Isabel I. De Anda
5 February 2003
Dear Mayor Lewis and City Council Members,
City Attorney
City Clerk
My husband and I strongly oppose the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a
business, i.e., a Montessori School at 3016 Highland Drive. My husband has owned
property on Highland Drive since 1957. Although there have been many changes in the
City of Carlsbad, thanks to foresight and city codes some of the neighborhoods have been
able to maintain a semblance of a more serene era. Highland Drive is one of those areas.
We are fearfid that allowing a business to be established on an R-1 site would set a
precedence and virtually open a Pandora’s Box for the future of all of the City of Carlsbad
where residential and commercial zones intersect. Obvious potential problems are just
across Carlsbad Village Drive on the northeast and northwest corners of CVD and
Highland, specifically the Spite House and the flower fields.
This property at 3016 Highland Drive was purchased by Mr. Greissinger for the express
purpose of opening a business. He was well aware that it was in an R-1 zone. For over 4
years he and his daughter, Janann Taylor have tried to get a CUP for a private school
business at this location. There was never any intention of living on the property. Now
that there is a Large Family Child Care Home on the site, someone is supposedly in
residence, as required by the permit.
The issuance of a permit for a Montessori school has been opposed by the Planning
Commission Staff, the Engineering Department, the Fire Department, the neighbors, and
was ultimately denied by the Planning Commission on November 20,2002. When the
Planning Commission was considering the permit many conditions and restrictions were to
be applied. From current activities at the Child Care Home, we question how closely any
restrictions on a CUP would be followed. It is common knowledge that the children
attending the Child Care Home are all school-aged children. It is common knowledge that
they are not attending public schools. It is common knowledge that the Child Care Home
is closed on school holidays and during school vacations, e.g., the two weeks at Christmas
or winter break.
Ms. Taylor avows that she is following the rules of a Large Family Child Care Home.
In a letter to Code Enforcement in response to a reported code violation of operating a
private school illegally Ms. Taylor stated that in her Large Family Child Care Home she
provides:
“informal supervision of the child as the family needs are met.
family-type projects and chores to provide a home setting with practical life skills, such
as sewing, cooking, letter writing, cleaning, yard maintenance, carpentry, caring for pets
frequent family-type outings for entertain (sic) and recreation; such as picnics in the
park, beach walks, library visits, visits to places of interest (fire station)
toys, building blocks, stuffed animals available while parents are away
sofas and stuffed chairs for reading and relaxing
TV and videos available”
If this is what school-aged children are doing all day, every day, when and where are they
getting an education? If they are being home schooled, when is this happening?
According to the California Statute #48224 applicable to home schooling:
“Children not attending a private, full-time day school and who are being instructed in
study and recitation for at least three hours a day for 175 days each calendar year by a
private tutor or other person in the several branches of study required to be taught in the
public schools of this state and in the English language shall be exempted. The tutor or
other person shall hold a valid state credential for the grade taught. The instruction shall be
offered between the hours of 8 o’clock a.m. and 4 o’clock p.m.” Since these children are in
day care during these hours, their parents are obviously not teaching them. Who is and
when?
Statute #51210 states that the adopted course of study for grades 1 to 6 shall include
English, mathematics, social sciences, science, visual and performing arts, health, physical
education, and other studies that may be prescribed by the governing board. These are not
among the list of things that Ms. Taylor sent to Code Enforcement that she is providing for
the children in her Child Care Home.
My question is this, is Ms. Taylor teaching (tutoring) these children against the regulations
of a Large Family Child Care Center or have the children been truant from school since last
September? This is not a difficult question. Why can’t anyone get a straight answer? I
realize that there are privacy laws to protect children. But, most of these questions require
a simple yes or no from Ms. Taylor, not tap-dancing around the issues.
I am sure you have heard repeatedly about Mr. Ahmad Hadaegh, 3969 Adams Street,
Apt. #C209, Carlsbad, stating at the Planning Commission Meeting on November 20* that
his son is in the third grade at Ms. Taylor’s School. He spoke willingly and freely at this
meeting. He was in total support of Ms. Taylor and the good things that she was doing for
his son. He seemed to be of the assumption that his son was receiving a quality third grade
education at Ms. Taylor’s school. I assume that he pays for his son to attend this “school”,
Now, has he been paying for his son to be educated by Ms. Taylor or is he paying for daily
child care and his son has actually been truant from school since September? Mr. Hadaegh
seems to believe that his son is attending a school. Could this be followed up? “Ah, what a
tangled web we weave . . .” What are the children who are attending Ms. Taylor’s Child
Care Home being taught by example? If she is indeed running a school program
surreptitiously, the parents who enroll their children there should be ashamed of
themselves.
Pastor Job Miraflor of the North County Tabernacle of Praise also spoke at the Planning
Commission meeting on November 20,2002. He stated that “it would definitely be a real
challenge for her (Ms. Taylor) to follow and be in compliance with the rules and
stipulations that the Commission would place on her. As her previous landlord he said they
had nothing but problems and he would unequivocally say that it would be a very
problematic situation. . . . He said that she was constantly chafing at the rules; always
pushing the envelope. . . . He would characterize her tenure there at 1930 Sunset Drive as a
real nightmare.”
We do not mean to overlook the obvious problems involved in a business venture at this
location, e.g. the traffic congestion at this busy intersection, the possibility of accidents
caused by traffic, devaluation of surrounding properties, etc. We are just really very
concerned that a permit could be issued and once all of the grading, construction, paving,
building, etc. are completed, it would never be revoked if/when the conditions are not met
by the occupants. It would take a large investment to get the property up to code for a
private school. I cannot imagine the city revoking the permit once a lot of money is put
into the project by the petitionerlowner. Considering past history and the machinations that
currently take place, I seriously doubt that Ms. Taylor would do a lot of self-monitoring of
whatever conditions and restrictions would be applied to a CUP. Indications are not too
good that the city would do any monitoring on the conditions of the permit either. There
would be a constant neighborhood fiasco. Highland Drive is not the proper location for a
Montessori School or any other type of business.
As our elected officials we look to you, our City Council, to protect the rights of the
citizens of Carlsbad and keep business out of our residentially zoned neighborhoods. A
business belongs in a commercially zoned area.
Irene K. Strause & Robert V. Strause
3291 Highland Drive
Carlsbad 92008
Enclosures:
1) Code Enforcement letter
2) Reply to above letter
3) California Statutes applicable to home schooling issues
4) Additional signatures on petitions to be added to the petitions turned into the
Planning Commission
.* City of Carlsbad
October 11,2002
Ms. Janaan Taylor
3016 Highland Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
#@ RE: Large Family Day Care Home &nn&
Dear Ms. Taylor:
As you know from my prior correspondence and from comments made at the recent
Planning Commission hearing on your pending application for a Conditional Use Permit
(CUP), the City has received a complaint that you are operating a private school at your
home without a CUP and in violation of your existing day care permit. It is.my
understanding that, at the hearing, you broadly described the differences between the
types of educational activities you undertake as a day care provider and the types of
educational activities you would undertake if you were operating a private school. It
would be helpful in our resolution of this complaint, if you would provide us with a more
detailed explanation of this distinction in the context of what is actually occumng in your
home.
Complaints about code violations are handled in a variety of ways depending on the
nature of the complaint. Our preferred approach is generally to work cooperatively with
the violator to correct the violation. In the case of a structural violation, this could mean
working with the violator to make repairs or obtain required permits. In the case of a
conduct violation, this could mean getting the violator to voluntarily start doing what he
or she is required to do or to stop doing what he or she is not permitted to do.
The complaint against you is a bit more complex to resolve in that you have publicly
indicated you are not operating a school without a CUP or in violation of your existing
permit, but you have also publicly admitted you do care for school-age children and you
are providing them with some educational activities. To the average person, this seems
incongruous, which is why we are requesting additional information.
1635 Faraday Avenue - Carlsbad, CA 92008-731 4 - (760) 602-2703 - FAX (760) 602-8560 @
c
Ms. Janann Taylor
October 11,2002
Page 2
In addition, while there are situations where we might hold complaints in abeyance
pending the result of a permit application, these situations usually involve structural
violations where it would be economically impractical for a violator to remove the
violation in the interim. Moreover, it was clear from the comments made at the recent
hearing that the Planning Commission would prefer the complaint against you be
resolved before your CUP application is returned to them for further consideration. Your
cooperation in providing the requested information will assist in that regard.
Please send the requested information to my attention at the above address. It would be
helpful if I could receive it by no later than October 25,2002. In the meantime, please
feel free to contact me at (760) 602-2702 if you have any questions or if you wish to
discuss this matter further.
Code Enforcement Officer
c: City Manager
City Attorney
Community Development Director
Planning Director
Building & Code Enforcement Manager
Montessori Arts and Sciences Montesscni Arts B Sciences, Inc. Facility #376612582
3016 Highland Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008-1915 (760) 434-6440 Fax (760) 434-6440
Oc" 23J zoot @ Ms. Robin Nuschy
Code Enforcement Officer
City of Carlsbad
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008-731 4
I Dear Ms. Nuschy, I
I have received your letter investi ent action. During 'i. the Planning Commission Hearing, October 2, the City Attorney informed the
Planning Commission that a complaint of operation of a school without a Conditional
Use Permit was being processed. Commissioners were instructed to make a decision
based on the application and not on an alleged violation or crimina! act.
I have consistently met with the planners since 1998, trying to find a site for a small schdl, trying to do so near Casa Montessori de Carlsbad and trying to be in
compliance with every code and requirement. I am aware that a Conditional Use
Permit is necessary for a school, day care center, and other uses such as homeless
shelter and home to assist juveniles who need supervision and professional support.
Presently, I am operating a Large Family Child Care and am licensed by the State of California, Department of Social Services, by the Facility #376612582. My
husband and I are reslding at 3016 Highland Drive. This is a requirement of
Large Family Child Care Home. Per Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 3,
Sectionl02352(f)(l), Family Child Care is defined as providing regular care,
protection, and supervision to children in the care giver's own home. Per Title 22, a
home is the place where one remains when not called elsewhere ?or
labor or other special or temporary purpose.
As is required by the law for Large Family Child Care Homes, I make every
effort to keep a sanitary, healthy and safe environment that is pleasant for children under the age of eighteen and for less than 24 hours per day while parents and
guardians are away. There are puzzles, games, books, toys, didactic materials, art
supplies and sports equipment with which children may occupy themselves while
under my care. We do take outings to the library, and other places of interest.
x’4- a
In Chapter 21.83 it states, The purpose of the child care development
regulations is to recognize affordable, quality, llcensed child care Is critical to both the well belng of children and parents as well as the
economic vitality of the city.”
In Chapter 21 -83.01 0 G, it states that the purpose is to implement state law with
regard to the provision of child care facilities. As stated in Health and Safety Code,
Section 1597.40: ‘Family Day Care homes must be situated In normal
residential surroundings so as to give children the home environment which Is conduclve to health and safe development. It is the public
policy of this State to provide chlldren in a Famlly Day Care home the
home environment as provided in a traditional home setting.”
A Large Family Child Care Home is llcensed for maximum capacity
14 children or less. If there are more than 8 children, the provider must
have an assistant.
Ordinance NS-409 :21 .(part). 1997 states, “Judgments on the
quallty of child care are the responslbillty of parents, the provlder, and
the licensing agency.”
Dana lovelace is the with the Department of Social Services and is the Child
Care advocate for San Diego County. She has informed me that the facility meets all
the requirements of Child Care Licensing and the program offered at this Child Care
Home meets all the guidelines. + -n the Taylor, Janann Large Family Chlld Care
Anformal supervision of the child as the family’s needs are met.
>family-type projects and chores to provide a home setting with practical life
#376612582 e faclllty provides:
skills, such as sewing, cooking, letter writing, cleaning, yard maintenance,
carpentry, caring for pets
park, beach walks, library visits, visits to places of interest (fire station)
>frequent family-type outings for entertain and recreation; such as picnics in the
>toys, building blocks, stuffed animals available while parents are away
>sofas and stuffed chairs for reading and relaxing
>TV and vtdeQ&@vailable
Casa Montessori Elementary inte to provide as a Small Private
>formal lessons instructed to meet the compulsory branches of study required
>students will study planned content in a series of classes with related activities
>schooling and environment will include Montessori equipment and materials Anfrequently organized field trips that specifically meet grade-specific
>structured classroom environment and traditional school setting, without toys
-
by the California Department of Education
guidelines set by the State of California, Department of Education -
>the school will be a full-time school and will require children to attend as
>records will be kept for attendance and progress of student
>standardized tests will be administered to ensure quality of schooling
>tutoring will be available for students that may be needing extra help
>teachers will meet the requirements of professionalism required by the
directed by the State of California and education law
Department of Education and the Commission of Teacher Credentialing
A Large Family Child Care Home is a service for the community and is an allowable use in a residential neighborhood. I operate a Large Family Child Care
Home. I sincerely hope that I will be granted a Conditional Use Permit to operate a
Small Private School.
I hope this information will be sufficient to clear any questions about the
business I am operating while awaiting the outcome of the permit process. I do have
an Administrative Permit from the City of Carlsbad and Business License.
Please advise me if I can be of any further assistance in this investigation.
Sincerely, \
Janann Taylor
"
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THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-I AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone #
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTHlEAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-I AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone t#
8
I
THE UNDERSIGNED ARE' OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OF A
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE OPERATION OF A
PRIVATE SCHOOL AT 3016 HIGHLAND DRIVE, THE SOUTH/EAST
CORNER OF HIGHLAND DR. & CARLSBAD VILLAGE DR.,
FORMERLY THE DUNNE PROPERTY. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY ZONED
R-I AND WE FEEL IT SHOULD REMAIN WITHIN THE SINGLE-FAMILY INTENT:
Name (please print) Address Phone ##
rlgnature
, r -~
I 71
I dgnature
8
signature
9
I
date
date
date
date ~~
date
From: "Richard Thomas" crichardthomasQmelroselawcenter.com>
To: cPlanningQci.carlsbad.ca.us>
Date: Monday, February 10,2003 9:23PM
Subject: Support of Conditional Use Permit Montessori Arts and Sciences
February 10, 2003
City of Carlsbad
Planning Department 2560 Orion Way
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Bud Lewis, Matt Hall, Ramona Finnila, Mark Packard and Ann Kulchin
RE: Conditional Use Permit requested by Jan Taylor, 3016 Highland Dr.
Dear Council Members:
The purpose of this letter is to respectfully request that Mrs. Taylor be granted the conditional use permit
required for her Montessori Arts and Sciences School.
I strongly believe that children should be one of society's highest priorities, as the African proverb says, "It
take a village to raise a child". It saddens me, as a member of the "Village of Carlsbad" that children would
not be welcome in one of our neighborhoods.
A school such as Montessori Arts and Sciences, would be an asset to our community.
The children who attend this type of school are able to work at their own pace, which in most cases is
above their grade level. They develop a joy for learning, and are self-disciplined and self-motivated.
My children attended Mrs. Tayor's Casa Montessori de Vista school for the majority of their elementary
years. When they made the transition to Carlsbad public schools, both were working well above their grade levels. My daughter, along with three friends who also attended Mrs. Taylor's school, graduated
from Carlsbad High in 2002. All of them graduated with honors. One, as the Salutatorian of the class. All
four of these former students of Mrs. Taylor's are now freshman at various universities, having earned
scholarships for their academic achievements. I believe that Jan Taylor's teaching and her school's
Montessori philosophy, is a large part of their success. It would be a shame for other families not to have
this type of school as an educational alternative.
I know that people have voiced concerns about traffic and safety issues. I live a few blocks away from
Highland, on Stratford Lane. I travel on Highland frequently and have never experienced traffic problems
in this area. There is currently a large volume of traffic, due to the existing neighborhood schools, and
traffic always seems to flow well in the area. As I understand, students at Montessori Arts and Sciences
would not be walking along the street, but being picked up or dropped off in the driveway, on the school
grounds.
I can speak from experience in regards to Mrs. Taylor's control of the arrival and dismissal procedure
within her school. As well as being a parent of two of her students, I was an employee of her school as
part of the administrative staff for nine years.
Students were never dismissed unless there was a teacher in the parking lot to supervise for safety, and
there was always a teacher in the parking lot at arrival time. If a staggered schedule is required to ensure fewer cars at a given time, or if any other parking, drop-off or pick-up procedure was requested, I can tell
you that Mrs. Taylor would insist that parents adhere to the rules. The parents would want to do anything
ask of them to help keep this school, that they have chosen, and are paying for, as an alternative for their
families.
I have known Jan Taylor for 15 years. In addition to my relationship with her as my children's teacher, she
was a friend, a co-worker, and later, an employer. In all these capacities I have found her to be a person
of utmost integrity. I know that given the opportunity, she will be successful in fulfilling any requirements
set forth by the Planning Commission.
In closing, I would again like to say, that to me this is an issue of making children a priority in our society.
Yes Montessori Arts and Sciences is a business, but it is one that focuses on the child. Our children, the
children of our "Village" should certainly be worth making allowances for.
Respectfully,
Vicki Hendricks
1205 Stratford Lane
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(760) 434-1 929
ALL RECEIVE FOR THE INFORMATlON OF From: Pat Kelley
_CA J .. dcc Subject: 301 6 Highland .DATE CrrY MANAGER Date: 1/21/03 1:lOPM diu3 -yY? To: Cindee Hollingsworth; Marilyn Strong ECFCY
For City Council Distribution -?dd\CQQ&\y fp_tr.*
Attached is a summary timeline of Planning and Code Enforcement events for the above address. The
Montessori Arts and Science private school appeal is tenatively set for the Feb 11 th Council meeting. The
appealant and the opponent may wish to speak to Councilpersons before that hearing ,and this
background may assist in those conversations.
Fe3 I\ s -3
The summary does not list the dozens of phone calls from neighbors (for and against) and the appealant
Janann Taylor relative to this project - just official actions and letters.
I have FAX'd to MSTRO copies of letters sent to and received from as well.
Pat K
cc: Barbara Kennedy; Julia Coleman; Mike Peterson; Ray Patchett; Robin NuSchY;
Sandra Holder
e
7-3-01
3-14-02
5-2-02
7-1 7-02
8-7-02
9-3-02
9-1 6-02
10-2-02
10-1 1-02
10-23-02
10-30-02
11-12-02
Summary of Permit History and Code Enforcement Actions
30 16 Highland Avenue
Large Family Day Care Center
Application submitted for Casa Montessori de Vista School - CUP 01 -12
Daycare permit application DC 02-02 denied. Fire Department Inspector
observed that daycare was to be used as a private school.
Daycare permit DC 02-03 approved- states daycare shall not be used as a
private school. Standard conditions also apply (such as garage may not be
used for daycare purposes).
CUP 01-12 - Casa Montessori de Vista scheduled for PC - applicant
requests a continuance to 8/7/02
CUP 01-12 - Casa Montessori de Vista scheduled for PC - applicant
requests a continuance to a date uncertain. Project is re-noticed for 10/2/02
PC meeting.
Code Enforcement receives complaint from neighbor that childcare facility is
being used as a private school w/o CUP.
Code Enforcement staff sent letter to Ms. Taylor alleging illegal use and use
not in conformance with large-family day care use permit.
Planning Commission directs Staff to return docs with support findings to
allow CUP for a private school for consideration by the Commission.
Letter to Taylor from Code Enforcement requesting Taylor define comments
made at PC hearing in terms of school age children in her care vs. attending
school.
Letter from Taylor stating that she cares for children while they self-direct
their own education.
CEO Nuschy and Deputy City Att'y Coleman inspect premises to determine
uses.
Letter from DCA Coleman to Taylor. Citing facts as noted in 10-30-02
inspection
0 CUSD and State DOE determine whether children are receiving their compulsory
education. This determination is beyond the City's authority.
0 No private school affidavit has been filed with the State DOE
There is a reasonable suspicion that the use is comparable to a private school, and
final determination of this issue lies with the CUSD and the State DOE.
0 Garage has been converted to habitable space w/o permits and children are using
0 Staff has insufficient evidence to substantiate allegation that Taylor is violating
the garage in violation of day care permit.
day care use permit. The use of the garage is a code violation.
11-14-02
11-18-02
11-1902
1 1-20-02
12-2-02
12-17-02
12-26-02
12-27-02
Code Enforcement observes 11 children being dropped off at 3016 Highland
Avenue between 8:30 am and 9:30 am. on this Thursday morning.
Code Enforcement observes 13 children being dropped off at 301 6 Highland
Avenue between 8:30 and 9:30 am. on this Monday morning.
Code Enforcement sends Taylor a violation Notice re: garage use w/o
permits - must stop immediately and remove carpet, tables, chairs etc.
PC hearing - PC cannot make findings for approval of private school.
Conditions which would be necessary to make the use compatible with the
neighborhood are found to be infeasible.
Date of Taylor’s request for Appeal of Planning Commission’s denial of
CUP
Code Enforcement case closed
Letter from Taylor requesting copies of all files etc.
Copies of all letters and correspondence sent to Taylor
ciences
'bb129B2
P. 02
e
City of
November 19,'2002
JANANN TAYLOR
3016 HIGHLAND DR CARLSBAD CA 92008
RE: GEESINGER LARGE FAMILY DAYCARE PERB
301 6 HIGHLN DRIVE
Dear Ms. Taylor
Thank you for allowing me to inspect your property at 30j
30,2002. During my inspection I observed that the garagl
and chairs have been placed in the garage for apparent chi
the City's childcare ordinance prohibits the use of a garagl
21.83.050(H), also see Health & Safety Section 1597.47.
violation, you must remove the carpet, tables and chairs ii
calendar days of the date of this letter. In addition, please
garage at the 3016 Highland Dr for childcare activities.
If you have any questions about this matter, please contad
you for your cooperation on this matter.
Sincerely,
Robin Nuschy
Code Enforcement Officer
C: City Manager
City Attorney
Community Development Director
Plannjng Director
Barbara Kmedy
Building & Code Enforcement
1635 Faraday Avenue - Carlsbad, CA 92008-7314 (760:
** :arkbad
T
Highland Drive on October
las been carpeted, and tables
care use. As we discussed,
kor childcare activities, CMC
. order to remedy this
n the garage within 21 *
mediately stop using the
le at (760) 602-2702. Thank
I
iO2-2703 - FAX (760) 602-8560 @
RONALD R. BALL '
CITY #TTORNEY
JANE MOBALDI
ASSIST4Nt CITY ArrORNEY
ClNDlE K. McMAHON
OEPUlY CITY ATTORNEY
JULIA L. COLEMAN
DEPUN CITY A77bFINEY November 12,2002
CITY OF CARLSBA
1200 CARLSBAD VIUGE DRIVE
(780) 434-2891 FAX: (760) 434-8387
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA 92008-79
Ms. Janaan Taylor
3016 Highland Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
RE: Large Family Child Care Home Permit DC 02-03 C
Dear Ms. Taylor:
Thank you'for allowing Code Enforcement Officer Robin I
you on October 30, 2002 to discuss an allegation that you 2
at the addross above. I appreciate your response to Ms.
letter to you which asked you to describe the activities o(
response included a broad description of the 'types of E
children in your care.
The City issued. an administrative daycare permit ("Pem
which included the condition that "the large family day can
as a private school." Code Enforcement staff investigate1
operating a private school in the Geissinger Daycare Home
Included two site visits to the Home, several telephone cor
exchange of letters between Code Enforcement staff and
Enforcement staff and the City Attorney's office have respo
calls from residents regarding this matter. Finally, both Coc
City Attorney's office solicited assistance in this matter frorr
District, the State Department of Education, the State Del
Community Care Llcensing Division and the San Diego Cou
Code Enforcement staff have received numerous telep
residents wondering whether the parents of the school-ag complying with the State's compulsory education law. TI- from obsewing school-aged children entering the Home ear
the Home in the afternoon. Because these school-age
during school hours, we understand how some residents n
are operating a prlvate school in the Home In violation of thc
I
slssinger Daycare
uschy and me to meet with
'e operating a private school
quschy's October 11, 2002-
wring in your home. Your :tivities you provide for the
it') to the subject address,
home may not be operated the allegatlon that you are
;Home"). This investlgation
rersations with you, and the
yourself, In addition. Code
ded to numerous telephone
e Enforcement staff and the the Carisbad Unified School
artment of Social Services,
~ty Office of Educatlon.
one calls from concerned
!d children In your care are
residents concerns derive
in the morning and leaving
children are in the Home
ay have conduded that you
Permit. .
Ms. Janaan Taylor
November 12,2002
0.
School-aged children may satisfy the State’s compulsory ducation law by:
1) Attending public school; or
2) Receiving tutoring from a Multiple Subject Teachin Credentialed individual who
provides instruction in Engllsh in all branches of stud required in public schools for
at least 175 days per calendar year for at least thr e hours per day between the
hours of 390 a.m. and 4:OO p.m.; or
3) Attending a private full-time day school or boarding s 001; or
4) Entering into an Independent study agreement with a certificated employee of a local school district desfgnated as a *supervising tea ef who makes assignments,
evaluates the student’s work and assigns grades. (California Education Code
Section 48220 et seq.) 1
The Caflsbad Unified School District and/or the State Dep rtment of Education have .the
authority to enforce the State’s compulsory educati n law. The City’s Code
Enforcement authority is llmited to confirming your corn liance with the Permit. The parents of any school-aged children in your care are resp nsible for complying with the
State’s compulsory education law. However, I have GO tacted the Carlsbad Unified
School District and the State Department of Education resldents concerns
about the school-aged children in the Home during is wlthin these two
entities’ discretion whether this matter requires
The Perrnlt does acting as a
affidavit for 3016 Highland Avenue in Cartsbad.
observed during our October 30, 2002 site visit two years old, playing tetherball, watching a video,
presence of school-aged children In the with the
observations Ms. Nuschy and I made
allegation that you are operating a private support the reasonable conclusion
“supervising teacher” to the
The California State
issues Large Family the Community Care
Ms. Jansan Taylor
November 12,2002
Page Three
October IO, 2002. On this date, Ms. Magafia found no vi0
Chlld Care Home license issued to the Home.
A resident made a second allegation that you have illegal
address above into habitable spa’ce. Code Enforcement s
during the October 30, 2002-slte visit to the Home. Tt
items to facilitate childcare activities even though the garz
City’s Child Cart? ordinance prohibits the use of a garag,
21.83.050(H). If it is your desire to convert the garage tc
motor vehicles, a building permit is required. Because the
for each single family dwelling, a’separate garage would
use the existing garage for childcare purposes.
In conclusion, Code Enforcement staff has insufficlent
allegation that you are violating the Permit by operating
and I will recommend that Code Enforcement staff clo:
However, there is a code vlolation in the garage on your p used for childcare activities. Please contact the City’s Bui
regarding this matter within the next five business days.
Please contact me at 434-2591 if you would like to dis
Thank you, again, for your cooperation with Code Enforce
Very truly yours,
:‘ ~;;vcounci,
lia Coleman
City Manager
Community Development Director
Building and Code Enforcement Manager
Barbara Kennedy, Associate Planner
Robin Nuschy, Code Enforcement Officer
)la ii 1 I
I
ons of the Large Family
:onverted the garage at the
’ investigated this allegation
garage was furnished with
doors were operable. The a childcare facility, CMC
use other than for parking
me Code requires a garage
/e to be built on site, if you
idence to substantiate the
vivate school in the Home
the file on this allegatlon.
Ierty any time the garage is
1g Department at 602-2700
;s this matter at any time.
nt staff in this matter.
0 Montessori Arts and
3016 Highland Drive Carlsbad, CA 9200801915 (760)
Ms. Robin Nuschy
Code Enforcement Officer
Ctty of Carlsbad
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008-731 4
Dear Ms. Nuschy,
1 have received your letter investigating the code c \, the Planning Commisslon Hearing, October 2, the City I
Sciences
%612582
34-6440 Fax (760) 434-6440
horcement action. During
horney informed the
Planning Commission that a complaint of operation of a chaol without a Conditional Me Permit was being processed. Commissioners were i structed to make a decision
based on the application and not on an alleged vlolation r criminal act
I have consistently met with the planners since 199 , trying to find a slte for a
small schcrdl, trying to do so near Casa Montessori de C rlsbad and trying to be in
compliance wlth every code and requirement. I am awar that a Conditional Use
Permit is necessary for a school, day care center, and ot r uses such as homeless
shelter and home to assist jweniles who need supervisio and professional support. i I
Presently, I am operating a Large Family Chlld Car and am licensed by the
State of California, Department of Social Services, by the acllity 876612582. My husband and I are residlng at 3016 Highland Dri e. This is a requirement of
Large Family Child Care Home. Per Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 3,
Section102352(f)(I), Family Child Care is deflned as prov ding regular care, protection, and supervision to children in the care giver's o n home. Per Title 22, a home Is the place where one rernalns when not c Ited elsewhere for
labor or other speclel or temporary purpose.
As is required by the law for Large Family Child Car v Homes, l make every effort to keep a sanitary, healthy and safe environment that is pleasant for children under the age of eighteen and for less than 24 hours per d y while parents and
guardians are away. There are puzzles, games, books, t , didactic materials, art
supplies and sports equipment with which children may o upy themselves while under my care. We do take outings to the library, and other I places of Interest. I
I 0
I In Chapter 21.83 it states, The
regulatlons Is to recognlze critlcal to both the well
economic vitality of the
In Chapter 21.83.010
regard to the provlslon of
Section 1597.40:
resldentlal
which I8
have an aeslstant. I
Ordinance NS-409 :21 (pert). 3997 states, “budgments on the
quallty of chlld care are the re6pOnSlbtlCty of parents,
the ITcenslng agency.” the provider, and
Dana Lovelace is the with the Department of Socia
Home meets all the guidelines.
offered at this Child Care the requlrernents of Child Care Licensing and the program
me that the facility meets all Care advocate for San Dlego County. She has informed
Senrlces and is the Child
Presently fn the Taylor, Janann Large Faml
;.frequent family-type outings for entertain and rew etion; such as picnics in the
setting with practical life >farnify-type projects and chores tu provide a home
are met. >informal supervision.of the child as the famify’s needs
y Child Care
>toys, building blocks, stuffed animals available wh le parents are away
>sofas and stuffed chairs for reading and relaxing
,TV and videos available i
#376612582 the faclllty provjdecr:
skills, such as sewing, cooking, letter writing, cleaning, yard
’ carpentry, caring for pets maintenance,
park, beach walks, library visits, visits to places oi Interest fire station)
Caaa Montessori Elementary Intend@ to as a Small Prlvate
Hormal lessons instructed to meet the of study required
>students will study planned content in related activities
xchoollng and environment will and materials
>infrequently organized tietd guidelines set by the State of
>structured classroom
School:
by the Catifomia Department of Education
I.
>the school will be a full-time school and will r children to attend as
directed by the State of California and educatfon law
>records will be kept for attendance and prog
xtandardlzed tests will be administered to e Autorlng will be ervaifable for students that m >teachers wilt meet the requirements of p Department of Educatlon and the Commisslon
A Large Famlly Child Care Home is a s allowable use in a residential neighborhood. I Home. I sincerely hope that I will be granted
Smafl Prlvate School.
I hope this information will be sufficient
business I am operating while awaiting the ou an Administrative Permit from the Cky of Carl
Please advise me if I can be of any further assista in this investfgation.
Slncerefy, I
October 1 1,2002
Ms. Janaan Taylor
3016 Highland Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008 I
RE: Large Family Day Care Home Pennit DC 02-03 Greissinger Day Care
Dear Ms. Taylor:
As you know fiom my prior correspondence and hm corm
Planning Commission hearing on your pending application : (CUP), the City has received a complaint that you are opera1
home without a CUP and in violation of your existing day c;
understanding that, at the hearing, you broadly described the
types of educational activities you undertake as a day care p;
educational activities you would undertake if you were opa;
would be helpful in our resolution of this complaint, if you 'v detailed explanation of this 'distinction in the context of wha1
home.
Complaints about code violations are handled in a variety of
nature of the complaint. Our preferred approach is general13
the violator to correct the vio.lation. In the case of a structur;
worlcing with the violator to make repairs or obtain required
conduct violation, this could mean getting the violator to vol
or she is required to do or to stop doing what he or she is not
The complaint against you is a bit more complex to resolve i.
indicated you are not operatmg a school without a CUP or in
permit, but you have also publicly admitted you do care for s
are providing them with some educational activities. To the
incongruous, which is why we are requesting additional info]
1635 Faraday Avenue - Carlsbad, CA 92008-7314 - (760) '
:arkbad
ents made at the recent
)r a Conditional Use Permit
ng a private school at your
differences between the
wider and the types of.
:kg a private school. It
mId provide us with a more
is actually occuning in your
permit. It is my
vays depending on the
to work cooperatively with
violation, this could mean
emits. In the case of a
ntarily stafi doing what he
mmitted to do.
that you have publicly
lriolation of your existing
hool-age children and you
wage person, this seems
nation.
Ms. Janann Taylor
October 11,2002
Page 2
In addition, while there are situations where we might holc
pending the result of a pennit application, these situations
violations where it would be economically impractical for violation in the interim. Moreover, it was clear &om the c(
hearing .that the Planning Commission would prefer the COI
resolved before your CUP application is returned to them f
cooperation in providing the requested information will ass
Please send the requested information to my attention at tht
helpful if I could receive it by no later than October 25,20(
feel free to contact me at (760) 602-2702 if you have any q
discuss this matter Mer. Wdw+
obin Nuschy
Code Enforcement Officer
c: City Manager
City Attorney
Community Development Director
Planning Director
Building & Code Enforcement Manager
mplaints in abeyance .
ally involve structural
olator to remove the
nents made at the recent
aint against you be
urther consideration. Your
in that regard.
love address. It would be
In the meantime, please
tions or if you wish to
-
September 76,2002
Ms. Janann Taylor
3016 Highland Drive Carfsbad, CA 92008
Re: Large Family Day Care Home Permit DC 02-03 Geissinger Daycare
Dear Ms. Taylor:
The City of Carlsbad's Code September 3,
2002 alleging that private property, I
investigated this allegation
During my site visit, I
activities with a page
The Large Family
May.2, 2002 is
Large Family
Carlsbad
Please contact me If you would like to discuss this matte1 by calling me at (760) 602-
2702.
Sin rely,
Robin Nuschy
Code Enforcement Offic
c: City Manager
City Attorney
Communlty Development Director
Plannlng Director
Principal Building Inspector
Senior Building Inspector " ./ +
1635 Faraday Avenua - Carlsbad, CA 92008-7314 - (760) 6c2-2703 FAX (760) 602-85W @
l@Za%d&UA Jack Henthorn & Associates %* 2-11-03
5365 Avenida Encinas, Suite A d.‘4//- - cou,,,/ &I
Curlsbad, California 92008 AkWd %Go.
(760) 438-4090
Fax (760) 438-0981
Memorandum
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
FROM: JACK E. HENTHORN
SUBJECT: CASA MONTESSORI - LETTER FROM THE STA~ DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
DATE: FEBRUARY 1 1,2003
The attached letter was received late yesterday evening and requires that Jan Taylor, as owner of
the Montessori Arts and Sciences, is required to register with the state as a private school. The
receipt of this letter will be disclosed at tonight’s City Council hearing during the applicant’s
opening presentation.
If you have any questions or wish to discuss the attached letter, please feel fiee to contact myself
prior to the City Council hearing tonight.
cc: Jan Taylor
Philip Buccola
IA Page 1 of 1
-_ .FEB“Ll-2003 09:S6 AM MONTESSORI.QRTS 760 434 6440 P. 01
February 6,2003
Janann Taylor Montessori Arts and Sciences
3016 Highland Dr. Carlsbad, CA 92008-1915
Dear Ms. Taylor:
All private schools conducting private school instruction at the elementary or high school
level for students of ages 6 through 18 years must file an affidavit. (Education Code Section
33 190.) As the owner and director of Montessori Arts and Sciences, you are required to file
a Private School Affidavit each year. I have enclosed a blank hivate School Affidavit for
your convenience.
Parents ofprivate school students should not file affidavits and home schooling by parents
who do not have a current California teaching credential is not authorized under the law. I
have enclosed a document called “Home Schooling Information Sheet.” Please review it
carefully. You may also want to review other information at m.cde.ca.govhivatescho&
Additionally, the affidavits you forwarded to this offlice for your students are incomplete. When filing online, all data must be completed online, submitted online, and the
confirmation page must be printed, signed, and mailed to this ofice.
If you have questions, please call me at (91 6) 3 19-037 1.
Sincerely,
.. Teresa Cantrell
Policy and Program Coordination
Specialized Programs Division
Enclosures
cc: Sharon Popp, Coordinator Pupil Personnel Services
Carlsbad Unified
801 Pine Ave. Carlsbad, CA 92008-2439
Beverly Barrett, Director
Pupil Personnel Services
Encinitas Union Elementary
101 S. Rancho Santa Fe Rd.
Encinitas, CA 92024
-I
FEE-11-2663 09:56 ePl MONTESSORI.ARTS 760 434 6448 P. 82
. uHOME SCHOO1LING".INEroRM.A'MON SHEET
Local school districts are napansiblt for amring that all children of compulsory school age in
the district are either: (I) in attendance at a public school; or (2) legally exempt from a#endimce requirements. Thm a~c three lagai options available in California to pmmts who wish to place
their school-age chil&cn.ic a setrlng other than a public ~cho01 classram:
1. One choice is privstt tutoring, ,which is a legal ntunption from the compnlmry public
school attendance law. (Ed. Code 55 48200,4820, d 48224.) The Mor (whq may be my
per so^, inclw aparmt) must.havt 8 valid Cahfomh teaching credential for the grade lavel(s>
being taught, and muat provide instruction in ali the brandm of study required in the public
sohools. The tutor must pmvidt instraction for at ltast three horns per day, during the paiod
between 8:OO asl. and 400 p-m., for at least 175 days per caleadcvr year, in the Enghsh language.
A tutur is not required to file a formal afiidavit, as private schools me. (See ~~SCUS~~II below.)
Unless a parent holds a teaching credential for the grade levcl(s) taught, hiis or her instruction
dots not qualify under the legal exemption for privat, turns.
2. Another choice, which is ab0 a legal amnption fiom compuleory attendance in the
public school system, is to enroll student^ in a priwte full-time day school. (Ed. Code 85 48220,
48222.) Private schoo1s, too, must instruct pupils in all the branches of study rquind in the
pblic schools. The law dots not rquk that private school instructors hold reaching credwtials, but they must be "capable of teaching." Acwrding to the California Attorney
General, this means thar teachers in private schoob shou1d.meet standards &e those required fa:
public ScboOi teachers in similar positions, except for the credential requirement. (See
3 Ops.Ca.l.-4~.Gm. 193.) Furthermore, the couz"lbhavt~jtcttd any rmggtstion that parents may call their own home-instruction program B "private school" in order to avoid the
rtquircmcnt of a teaching crcdtntiel. (People v. Tmer (1953) 121 Cal. App.2d Sup. $61,
appeal dismissed 347 U.S. 972; reaffirmed inh re Shim (1961) 195 CalApp.26 683.) Courts
>- ..
.. F€B-l1-2003 89 :57 AM MOt4TESSORL. ARTS ' I ,. ', .~i,___""..,i:..".-. "la- .---. . 760 434 6440 P. 33
3. ' As a.third choice, parcnts might considar indaponbt study, ananged.bugh ibdr 104 public Bchool district. (See Ed. Code 5 51745 and following.) Indepmdent study is not 811 ''exemption" from public schoob rather, it is an altnnativt to cberoom instruction, cond&td under the administraition of public schools. Independent study allows students to carry on thek
cthcation outside the classroom based on written agreements with local public school .&tncts.
The agreements include requirements caneistent with the local school district's corn of study,
and provide for gcncral supervision of each pupil's independent atudy by a credentialed
cmpioyct ofthe school &ct in which the child is cnrolled. A child with exceptid needs may participate iL indepmdcnt study oniy ifhis or her individualizsd education program (ZEP),
developed pursuant to Education Code sections SO340 and following, provides for that
participation. (Ed. Code j 517451~)~) Ifa particular district does not offer indcpmdmt study,
we CncoItgBt partnts to contact their county office of education to explore the availability of
independent .study through the 'wunty orthrough other. districts in Wir area.
R&ed .by 3 I. 2002
..,LLWA ;I l!3 # 10
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
C: Mayor
~ ~.
C:
This letter is a request that you please give the Montessori School on Highle
I Marilyn*Strong - Montessori School I - Page 1 1
ACZNDA ITEM # fU
Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attornq From: <r2conde@cs.com>
To: <council@ci.carlsbad.ca.us>
Date: 2/11/03 1:IOPM
Subject: Montessori School
Dear City Council: 1
Ind and Carlsbad Village Drive
a chance to open.their doors. There are many children that would benefit from this school. My child would
be one of them if he was given the chance to attend. Unfortunately, my child is not able to attend the
school due to the permit issues. There are many children that need the individual attention to flourish and
become successful human beings.
I as a parent would do everything possible to insure that the neighborhood is not disturbed.
Please understand that this school is needed so that "No Child is Left Behind"
Thank you for your consideration.
Raquel Conde
Gerald D Capp
3140 Highland Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008
Carlsbad City Council
Regards:- The proposal for a school in a residential home on Highland
Council Members
We have enjoyed living on Highland since 1968. Our family
is strongly against any commercialization on this residential
street. Over the past years we have had purchase offers from
Attorney's who wanted their offices to be in this Victorian house.
Also, Red and Breakfast enthusiasts, and Tea Room business people.
We have always resisted their lucrative purchase offers.
We are sure that the present owners of the subject property
love and adore young children, and want to assist in their education,
But, please not on Highland Drive.
On Oak Street across from my home we now have builder developers
conducting their business on that residential property. If this
school proposal is approved what is to stop other Highland owners
from changing their present home pleasure hobbies into business
operations? Like one neighbor who enjoys raising scores of exotic
Palm trees. Or the very skilled welder craftsman from opening his
home hobby into a business endeavor on this street? Your decision
could easily set a precAdent.
The above are potential negatives for this premier residential
street. This is besides the serious traffic congestion and hazards
that a school in this location would bring.
Since 1887 our home has been on a strictly residential street.
City Council please do not change that.
AGENDAITEMC b
C: Mayor city coanell
City Manam
City Attorney
City Clerk
Sincerely,
Dear Members of the City Council, February 10,2003
In regard to the Conditional Use Permit at 3016 Highland Drive, I would
like to make it public record, that I am in favor of the property to be used as a
private Montessori school. I had the opportunity to view Mrs. Taylor‘s former
school in Vista, early last spring, when I was looking at schools, as my son would
be entering primary education the next school year. Upon my visit I saw
separate rooms with many different school aged children working on math,
reading, art, etc., but helping each other in a very calm, controlled environment,
and really enjoying what they were doing. At that time I had also looked at Carlsbad Montessori School, and did not find nearly the organization or
cleanliness that Mrs. Taylor and I am such a stickler for. I have found Jan to be
very committed to detail; be it rules, courtesy, paperwork and most anything she
deals with. She is the kind of person I want educating my children.
I work full time and my wife works with our children. We have not had the
opportunity to solicit and pursue the neighbors or put up misleading signs up and
down Highland Drive, as have others who are retired or run their businesses out
of their homes. We are the parents of these young children, who want a good
education for our future community members and leaders. I speak to you from
my heart, the heart of a parent who wants the best education he sees fit for his
child, and a school such as what Jan Taylor has to offer is second to none.
As far as traffic is concerned, I have never seen any congestion in the
driveway or on Highland Drive, since I have been taking my son and his two
friends to the daycare, in September.
Respectfully,
Homer Prefonfaine
Dear Members of the City Council, February 11,2003
I would like to express my support for the proposed private
Montessori school at 3016 Highland Drive. I am a resident within three
blocks of the school and have lived here more than 25 years at this
address. I am in my mid-seventies and have a grandson that attends the Montessori Arts and Sciences daycare facility. To me, I can’t think of a
better place to have a small school, with it’s central location near the
library and what better a way to preserve a historic home and to begin to
educate our youth about the charm, beauty and history of “Olde
Carlsbad”. My children would walk to Buena Vista from our home on
Evergreen Circle, and from time to time I walk to the daycare to retrieve
my grandson in the afternoon and find it to be, not only very safe, but
peaceful. I don’t believe that this small proposed school would have any
impact on traffic. As it were, when I picked him up, there were no others
there at 3:OO p.m., and I only encountered 2 high school aged children
walking on Highland and one car at the light. My encounters with Mrs.
Taylor have always been that of pleasantries. She is a woman of integrity
and doesn’t lack conviction. I urge you to vote in favor of this school, as I
see it to be a win-win situation for everyone.
C: Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
Respectfully yours,
Helen T. Chapman
Dear Members of the City Council, February 11, 2003
I am writing to express my favor in the proposed school at 3016 Highland
Drive. My son is now enrolled in the daycare facility at this address. I first
learned of Jan Taylor about eighteen months ago. At that time, a close friend of
mine had told me of how her son was having trouble with self-esteem, because
his body wasn‘t developing physically due to illnesses. It was then that her son
was enrolled in Mrs. Taylor’s school, Casa Montessori de Vista. By the end of the
school year, not only was his confidence built up, but also his reading and other
academics had improved immensely. She attributed that to the one-on-one care
that he received from his teacher, Mrs. Taylor. At that point there was not a
doubt in my mind that I wanted my son to receive the same kind of care,
compassion and tutelage.
I am a product of both public and private education, and I received that
education here in this beautiful city of Carlsbad. From St. Patrick‘s and Buena
Vista to Victory Christian and Carlsbad High School. I would like to continue to
raise my children in the same vein, but in the Montessori method. I have looked
into other schools, but I have yet to find an educator with the passion and
ambition to see these kids‘ proverbial lights go on. She has the tools and the
knowledge and a way of getting them excited to see what the next day has in
store for them. It’s amazing and brilliant all in the same breath.
I have lived here for more than 25 years and the majority of them were
spent in my parent’s home around the corner on Evergreen Circle. I couldn’t
think of a better, safer, neighborhood for my children to be schooled in. As I
remember it, I used to walk downtown to the ”Big Bear” supermarket in sixth
grade with my neighbor, for fun. That street hasn‘t changed in all those years,
and in my opinion, a small private school, on the corner isn‘t going to have the
slightest bit of impact on traffic, up or down that street.
Several of the parents have multiple children in the daycare. Two of which
I share carpooling responsibilities with. I urge you to give the school and our
children a fighting chance. They are our future Doctors, Teachers, Scientists and
Politicians. Please vote in favor of the Conditional Use Permit ... for Carlsbad.
Thank You.
AGENDA ITEM # 1 0
C: Mayor
City Coundl
City Manager
Clty Attorney
AGENDA ITEM # 1 0 Mnrt rac
“
d
E. rrefontai
ALL RECEJVED
2806 Jacaranda Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92009
February 8,2003
Mayor Bud Lewis
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
E: Mayor city Council
City Manager
City Attorney
I
Dear Mayor Lewis:
Recentiy i became acquainted with Jan Taylor and her desire to run a Montessori School
at her home in Carlsbad. She evidently worked with the staff to develop plans, at
considerable expense, that would make her property an asset to the community. My
understanding is that the Planning Commission reversed their decision after a group of
NIMBYs objected to having a small school on this property.
I have lived at the very southern end of Carlsbad for twenty-five years. Across
Olivenhain Road is the Early Explorations Day Care Center. I have frequently walked
past the Center when parents are dropping off and picking up their children. It does not
have any major impact on the neighborhood or traffic. The NIMBYs act as if this
property was on a two-lane road in Rancho Santa Fe as opposed to a main street.
For the most part, I believe the city leaders have done an excellent job in developing
Carlsbad. I believe that elected leaders should listen to the community, as they have in a
number of instances. However, they must do what is best, not necessarily listening to
every objection. A private school is a wonderful asset to a community, adding more
choices for parents attempting to get the best education for their children.
I urge you to support Ms. Taylor's endeavor.
Regards,
Edith Appel
Jack Henthorn & Associates
5345Avenida Encinas, Suite A Carlsbad, CIA 92008 1760) 438-4090 F~x (740) 438-0981
Memorandum
TO: MAYOR LEWIS AND COUNCIL
FROM: JACK HENTHORN %
SUBJECT: MONTEsSORI SCHOOL, AGENDA ITEM 10
DATE: . FEBRUARYII, 2003
The attached copy is a fax provided in follow up to material provided under separate
cover. The State of California has determined that they were unaware that Ms. Taylor had inactivated her private school. The conclusion they are offering now is that she is
not required to file with the State and that she can, in fact, function as a tutor for home
schooling purposes.
k Page 1 of 1
FAXCOVERSHEET
FROM: David Kopperud
Coneuitant
Counseling end Student Support Omce 660 J Street, Suite 406 Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone No.: (9f6) 327-5930
Fax No.: (91 6) 3234061
48228. Tk, classes of ahlldier. dccrarlbad in thie article, 8hdL be
attendance upon a putjllc full-rime day echoul. . exempted by thr proper school authorir-ies froM the requlremente of
4ea23. children are being imtructed in a privata full-time day ochool by peweons capable of taaching shall ke exenpted. hdh achool shall, except under the circumetancas descrikwd in SscCi0n 30, ba taught in the tngllah language and ehall after inetructian in the
eavera1 branchee of erudy required to be taught in che public scllo~ls of the state. The attendance 02 the pupil0 0hall be Kept by
grivrtc acbol au%.iorItier in a regiscar, and che record of artenamco ehall ixdiearc clearly every absence of khc pupil from rchaol fer (L hrlf day OS during each day mac OcnOOl ie mrintrfd during the year. Wmptiona under chi6 aectioa ehall be valid only after verlflcation by tha attendance supervisor of the diecrlct, of ocher Fezson deoignacoa by che board of .bumtion, that the private liehool
heB conplied with chs provialone of 9ectlm 33190 requiring the J-ai Silltq Sy the owner 01 uther head of a private school a2 M
affidavlt or etacement of prascrihed information with the
Superintwdent of Public Inotructlon- The verification required by
this scctlon ehall uoc be construed as an malustion, recognition. apPr0vi;ll. or endoramenc er any private cchaol or COUTBB-
48223. chilarrn arho arc msntally gifted and wh~ are being instructed in ir privaee full-time day schocl by preoaa capable af teaching. where all ar part of the cour8ea of inechlotion requlrad t-a
be taught in the pobllc oooolo of thle ~tate ie caught Sn a foreLgn language with not lese than 56 percent the total daily instruationsl tine carusht in the English language, shall be wtenrgted.
48722,
The attendance of the pupils shall ba kepc pureuant to Seerion
". _"" - Chilaren nbc attendins a privace, full-time, day rcbool and
4-10 are being izwtructtd in oidy 4r.d recitation f3r ht learnt tWee
hours a day for 175 aap each calendar year by a private tutor OL' other pe~san In che several branchee of attdy requited to be taught In the publtc schools et! thie ntatr and in the Bnglish language shall be cxunpcnd. The cutor or other peracn ahall hold 3 valid state czvndenrial for chs grade taught. The inotruoEion aha11 be offered between the houro of e o'clock a.m. and 4 O'C~OC~ p.m.
I L- ""*
48225. Tna governing hard of any rachool district which has chtldren holding wrk pennlte to work temporarily in the entertainment or allied irduetrlrs who 'ace wenlpred from attending
public n.tll-cirnc dry ocheol Under the pl-c~ldons of thia article, or a councy euyerintrndenr of rchoole, may mntzacc with any person. fim oc corporation reeponeiblc for the duartiea of any children, 8~ employed or act.ing on behalf thexQO1, to provide eligibility listn and plscemeat $IWl%sl far 4UAliZiCa teaching and er!ler neceseary geroow-el tor the tucorihg of such ehil&ren while eo crP\ylQyed. Such
02/14/03 FRI 13:48 FAX 58154K - . -. . .. .. - -.
To: Lorraine Wood
Company: Cify Clerk
Fax No.: (760) 720-6917
from: Jan Taylor
PSI
Facsimile
Re: Casa Montessori
Date: fib. 74, 2003 -Other-
No. of Pages: ( 2 ) Including Cover
Ph: Sent by Peter R. Tay/or (858) 581-7799
Re: Letter of Support for Montessori Arts and Sciences
Ms. Wood: please add this leffer, read at the Tuesday meetlng, fo fbe C.U.P. application
file for the pmject at 3076 Hjghland Dr.
Thank-you,
Peter.
Conlidentiallfy Note; This fac8imlIe hnsmisslon (including any materials accornpanylng this transmission) is intended only for fbe
use of fhe individual to which It is eddmssed, and mey contain lnfomtion that Is privileged, sea84 confidential, andor exempt
from disclosure undersppliceble kw. If you am not the intended recipient. nor the employee, nor egent msponslble for deliverhg
this transmission to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified ih8t any disclosure, copying. dlslribution or use dthis
transmission Is strictly pmhlbifed. If you have Feceived lhis communicafion in emr, if is requested that you notify the sender
immedlalely to srrange for the return of this transmission a1 no cost.
PSI
USS TARAWA (LHA 1) HC-11 SAR DET 7 FPO Af' 988224600
February 9,2003
Dear Carlsbad City Council:
This letter is in support of the school proposed for 3016 Highland Drive. Mrs. Jan Taylor, the
applicant, is my mother. I was raised in the fine City of Catisbad and attended Casa Montessori de
Carlsbad, Buena Vita Elementary School, and later Magnolia Elementary School, when the zonas
changed. 1 attended Tub University in Boston on a Navy ROTC scholarship and graduated wlth a
Degree in Mechanical Engineering. I spent the majority of my childhood at 1351 Pine Avenue,
delighted to be raised close to my school, the park, the beach, the library and the communily theater. Although I am not currently a resident, I consider Carlsbad to be my hometown, and I intend to live
there when I have fulfilled my obligation to the Naq.
Regretfully I am unable to attend the public hearing scheduled for 11 Februaq, as I am
currently deployed aboard the USS Tarawa in support of military actions overseas. As a helicopter pilot stationed at Naval Air Station North Island, I did have the opportunity to attend the first Planning Comrnlssion hearing. At that meeting, I was struck by the contrast of the presentations given by those
in suppart of the project and those opposed. It appeared to me that the lofty goals and cooperative
nature of the pmject's advocates were dramatically oftset by the provocative, and sometimes irrational
arguments, of those few individuals opposed. It was evident to me that the opposition was eager to
twist any excuse they could come up with into a reason to block the development of the proposed school. How many traffic studies does it take to prove that the effect will be negligible? How much of a
disturbance can 36 children really be in a supervised environment between the hours of 830 a.m. and
3:OO p.m.? Finally, who could possibly be more concerned wlth the safety, both perceived and actual,
of her students, than a 20 plus year veteran teacher and school owneR
I have seen Jan Taylor in action. For her, like any great educator, teaching is not merely a ]ob. It is, quite literally, a calling, a gill, that springs from the heart. Her project is the realization of a dream to create and operate an institution where a small group of students can receive an individualized
education in CARLSBAD. I am very proud of Mrs. Taylor's dedication to this project It is her dedication
that will make it a success. I say give her a chance. The property Is right, the timing is right, and the
people involved are right. You can be sure that the children who receive an education at 3016 Highland Drive will be future leaders in bur community.
[m 002
Respedfully,
LT Aaron Taylor
From: <tlaughlin@palomar.edu>
To: <CDAdmin @smtp.ci.carlsbad.ca.us>
Date: Wednesday, February 12,2003 3:34PM
Subject: CITY OF CARLSBAD I CONTACT US
MRadve-AgendaItiand b
For the Information of tha:
CITY COUNCIL4
Asst. CM-CAdw
A visitor to the City of Carlsbad Web site has completed DateeJ~~ city ~~~~
and posted the "Contact Us" form to department, Building Department.
Below, please find the information that was submitted:
First Name: Teresa Last Name: Laughlin
Address: 3741 Yvette Way
City: Carlsbad
State: CA
Zip: 92008
Country: San Diego
E-mail: tlaughlin@palomar.edu
Message: To the Carlsbad City Council,
I was unable to speak at the City Council meeting on 2/11/03 regarding the Montessori School on
Highland Avenue and I would like to add my voice in opposition to the school.
First of all, I am very education oriented. I am a teacher and understand the importance of learning; however, this issue is not about schools in general, or learning, it is about the appropriateness of a school
on that site. After watching the Staff presentation, hearing from the fire department, and reading the
Planning Commission's report, it is clear that the school must not be allowed on that site. It would be
dangerous to the children attending as well as the walkers and joggers that enjoy Highland Avenue
presently. Second, the neighbors closest to the proposed school and the people most impacted by the conditional
use permit are clearly in opposition. In a three block area around the proposed school there were ten
signs against the conditional use permit, not one for it.
Highland is a very unique street, and 301 6 Highland is a historic home, it must be perserved.
When one moves into an area that is residential, one has an expectation that the spirit of the
neighborhood will be protected by the City zoning laws. It is your responsibility to protect our
neighborhood and deny the conditional use permit. I am sure that a more appropriate school site can be
found that would not be as problematic.
Thank you for you consideration.
Sincerely, Teresa L.C. Laughlin
Voter and Resident of Olde Carlsbad
User details:
Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSlE 5.01; Windows NT 5.0) /web browser
/ hostname
208.186.1 90.73 / ip address
Planning Commission
1200 Carlsbad Village Orive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
r, UL
To Whom It May Concern,
1 am writing you today with my observations and opinions regarding the
Montessori Arts and Sciences at 3016 Highland Drive in Carlsbad.
As an American Heart Association Youth Programs Director, I have had the
privilege of working with Ms. Taylor and her youngsters for several years. i have also had the opportunity to pop in and visit the program on Highland Drive, I can
state with confidence, that the level of Ms. Taylor’s dedication, the climate of the
facility, and the organization of the children (and their activity) is remarkable! As always, during this recent visit to the program, the children were engaged and
happy! In addition to all this, Ms. Taylor and the children support and give back
to the community. They enjoy participating in community functions, including
supporting the American Heart Association’s youth programs for several years.
Ms. Taylor’s program is an asset to any community, providing a unique, peaceful,
nurturing and educational environment for children. I encourage you to continue
your support of Ms. Taylor, this program and these fine youngsters. Please feel
free to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Sincerelv.
American wart AssMiation
San Diego, CA
(760) 966-1 731
..
city Counell cityM.rurger City Attorney Pamela Hamrin
3700 Highland Dr. #10
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Dear City Council Members,
I am a 12 year resident of 3700 Highland Dr., #lo. I have attended 3 or the four meetings
regarding the proposed Montessori school. In past years, I assumed my beautiful
neighborhood was treasured by all and our city would be motivated to preserve it for the
treasure it is. When the industrial strength Carlsbad Academy replaced the beautiful
palm grove I understood I had made a mistake in my perception. Really, folks. That
building is plug ugly, and it receives no softening from landscaping. I don’t want to
make the mistake again by not expressing my opinion re the current issue.
First, though, I want to tell you how much I have enjoyed and appreciated the whole
process. I was thoroughly impressed by each one of you at the most recent meeting.
Every speaker was met with courtesy, respect and gentleness. Each of you acted as if
each speaker was the only one, and very important. It was lovely to see. I also really
appreciate the time and thoroughness of the planning commission and staff and the
willingness of all of you to receive public input.
Re the school I would like to say:
1) The traffic has increased significantly in the years I have lived here. I know
doctors dismiss the antecdote in favor of the “scientific study”, but I have a hard
time buying the traffic report. We here. The traffic is already an issue and
throwing that many extra cars in and out of the driveway, so near Carlsbad
Village Dry yiJl create a problem.
2) Again an antecdote-My brother lives in a condo in San Francisco, adjacent to a
church preschool. It was charming to look onto but the noise is surprising
disruptive, even for people who really enjoy children. The school ended up being
shut down. It is not right to impose that noise on a neighborhood where people
purchased with R1 expectations.
3) I appreciate all the folks speaking to the value of the Montessori education. I
would suggest that those folks drive the extra one mile down to the village and
enroll their students in the Montessori school there. Let’s use the resources we
have.
I look forward to your decision but believe I will not attend the meeting coming up on
Tuesday, Feb. 18. I realize there will be a “loser” at that meeting and I don’t want to
crow over someone’s disappointed dreams or participate in outrage because a
Montessori School is going in down the road. At the end of the day, we are still
neighbors.
Thank you for your time and energy on behalf of our lovely community.
1, Marilyn Strong - Opposition to Montesorri school at 3016 Highland ."
Page I 1
From: Donna Engleman <oceanstr@pacbell.net>
To: <council@ci.carlsbad.ca.us>
Date: 2/12/03 5:27PM
Subject: Opposition to Montesorri school at 3016 Highland
Dear Council,
Montesorri school at the corner of Highland and Carlsbad Village Drive.
I agree with all the opposition points made at the City Council meeting last
night, Feb. 11,2003.
since 1980. Thank you for considering my opinion
Just a note to voice my opposition to the commercial business of a
. I am a tax paying and voting citizen living here in Carlsbad
Donna Engleman
cc: oceanstr <oceanstr@pacbell.net> AGENDA ITEM # b
C: Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
ALL RECEIVED
February 13,2003
Mavor Bud Lewis
AGENDA ITEM if c
C: Mayor
City Council
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Subject: Conditional Use Permit for Casa Montessori De Vista School at
3016 Highland Drive.
I am Terry Simpkins, the next door neighbor to this proposed school project.
As spokesperson for the neighbors opposed to this project, I am available by phone or
in person to discuss any issues concerning this project.
Issues such as:
Inconsistencies and inaccuracies in their plan as proposed.
Discrepancies between what they say they will do and what their plan shows.
Past behavior of their side and our side.
The neighborhood’s plan to constantly monitor/police the school’s every move, if
approved.
Any other issues.
ct meat213 02 194 at any time.
Carisbad, CA 92008
. . . . ALL RECEIVED Dm Luke
5451 Losanberry Way
Ckeansib. CA 92057 .
AGENDAITEM # b
U Mayor
City Conndl
February 10,2003
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
City Manager
City Attorney
Clty Clerk
Dear Mayor Bud Lewis:
I am writing to show my continued support for Jan Taylor and the School of Montessori Arts and
Sciences. I have been to two City Council Meetings and have spoken both times about the need for this school here on Highland and about Jan’s integrity as a woman of her word.
As I witnessed at the City Council meetings, the reasons mentioned for denial of a conditional use
permit for Mrs. Taylor were:
1) Mrs. Taylor’s ability or desie to comply with your guidelines
2) thaa the contention between the school and neighbors would be undesirable
3) tr&c
4) that Highland is NOT a desirable place for a school
RESPONSES:
1) As you have heard from many Carisbad citizens, fiends and c :olleagues of Jan’s, she is a woman
who stands behind her promises. She has jumped over every hurdle, complied with your requests,
redesigned her plans and is following all legal regulations required of her. It seems to me that
despite this evidence of her integrity, some members of the Council would still prefer to put more
credence on the testimony of a few neighbors who wish to tarnish her name for their own gain.
A former landlord also spoke against the school and against Jan’s integrity. I would like to testifl
on Jan’s behalfthat she always took the position to be as compliant as possible to their demands. I
helped Jan take care of the grounds on a weekly basis and I can testify that Jan was always cautious with their property; constantly reminding children where they could and could not walk.
She even had the children plant and tend to new grass seed that she planted on THEIR lawn. She
assigned the children the task of raking and watering plants on the property. Not only was she
responsible, but she held the children and parents to the same Ievel of responsibility.
I suggest that you CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITY that the landlord /tenant relationship may
have been strained more by a dispute over who should keep certain playground and classroom
equipment (that WBS purchased and installed by Mrs. Taylor) than by Jan’s supposed non-
compliance. As there are always two sides to a story, you are placed in the position to determine
the txuth and decide accordingly.
t........,................., I
b’ ..
February io, 2003
Page 2
2) At the council meetings, I have heard of and seen the behavior of a select few of her closest
neighbors - opponents who would like to paint the portrait of a wicked witch to protect their
interests. You and I have heard about the 24 hour video surveillance by neighbors, the swearing and heckling at visitors to theii house, the misrepresentation of Jan’s potential school, and the
scoffing and heckling at City Council meetings.
In contrast, you have seen the way that Jan and her husband conduct themselves CIVILY,
and NEVER with RETALIATION, how her supporters quietly listen to complaints and
respond to them serioosly and respecffnlly. Based on what you have seen, what type of
citizenry would you prefer your city be composed of?
The contention exists, but look at who is creating it. Will you give the select few nay-sayers more
weight than the many supporters who are maintaining a high standard of dignity and honesty?
3) I understand your apprehension on this matter, but because this is such a serious concern, Mrs.
Taylor has carefully planned out all the necessary changes. I can guarantee that anything that Mrs.
Taylor has the power to affect, she will affect in a positive way. The matter of getting parents to
comply with staggered drop-offs will be EASY. The parents care enough for their children to do
all it takes to allow this school to happen. In the two years that my son was at Montessori De
Vista School, all but one of the parents had very flexible schedules. They either owned their
own business, had one stay at home parent, or had otber responsible adults in chaqe of
prompt drop offs and pick ups. I suspect this will be the case for Montessori Arts and
Sciences as well.
4) The comer of Carlsbad Village Dr. and Highland is unique. A school that maintains the beauty of
the neighborhood would be ideal for this location - a busy street meets a quaint little
neighborhood school. One council member suggested that the idea of a Montessori school in the
city is a good one, but just not in this location. Seriously consider Mrs. Taylor’s option to DO
OVER this entire process again. I would think that this would be her last attempt to affect
Carlsbad in this way. If you are for a Montessori school in your city, see this Mentcssori
school as the golden opportunity that it is. Because it is likely that you will never have the
power to affect Carlsbad in such a positive way again in your career with the City.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Dim Luke
Parent of a former Casa Montessori De Vista School student
Cc: Mayor Pro-tem Ramona Finnila
Councilwoman Ann Kulchin
Councilman Matt Hall
Councilman Mark Packard
FEB.. (8-2@@3 02:25 PM MONTESSORI - ARTS 760 434 6440
*-l:!-To3rOt3:67A Richard A. Thomas 760 643 408-0 -.
P. 02
P.02 ,
I strongly hclievc that JiMrtn should be onr t)f aociety'~ hiRhrrt prlorftlen, 44 tho African
provcrb say#, ''It twkc a village to rairc P rblid", It rrddena me, M P member of the
"Village of Cwrbhrd" tbrt children wnuld not bc wclcoar in onc of our nei&hnrhood$,
A school such Montessori Arts and Sciences. would bc on aaaet to our comnwrrity.
'l'hc children wlli~ attend this typc 01' school nrc nblc to work at thcir own pact, which in most
cases is above their grndc level. They dcvclop a joy for lunrning, and arc sdlrdisciplincd and
self-motivated.
I
FEB- 18-2003 82 :25 PM MONTESSORI. ARTS 760 434 6440
3%-11-03 . .-.- O8:67A Richard A. Thomas 760 643 4oao .1 -.
11; closing, t wdd apain like to say, that to me this is an issuc of making childrm a priority in
mr society. Ycs Montessori Arts ~d Scicnccs in u business, hut it is OIIC that li)cusucs on the
child. Our children, the childrcn ol'our "VilI~gc" should ccrtdinly he worth making nllowuncw
liw,
P. 03
P.03
FEB--18-2803 02:25 PM MONTESSORI.ARTS 760 434 6440
AGENDAITEM#
c: city Coud
"
City MaWW
City Attorast
____L
Ihe
Montessori
Foundation
Tnmormw's Chlld Mag;lzine
The Center for Mnntessarf LadersNp
The Internattonal Montrmrl Coundl
The Mnntessarl Academy for Peace
Montessorl lab School
Executive Dlnctor Joyce St. GiemPine, Esq.
1001 Bem Creek laop Samota, FL 34240
Phone 800-655-5843
Website: www.montessori.nq
Emall: TlmScl~montessori.org
Fa 94 1-3 79-667 1
February 18,2003
Mayor Bud Lewis and Council Members
City of Carlsbad, California
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Via Fax: 706-720-946 1
Dear Mayor Lewis:
It is my understanding thatq- Taylor has applied for a condi-
tional use permit for an elementary Montessori school for 36 chit-
dren on .7 acre near to the Cole Library, Fire Department and other
city offices. It is my understanding that this is an historic building
constructed in the 1930s.
I understand that Jan Taylor and her team has dilligently worked
to address the concerns of the neighbors and city planning staff. I
would like to offer my support for this use of an historic building.
Through my travels throughout the United States and abroad I have
often seen such buildings used successfully for this purpose, and
invariably found that both the school and community regard them as
an asset. I know that the parents and the school community will do
whatever is necessary to make this use cornpatiblc and be a benefit
for your city.
Small independent schools like this one serve the needs of fami-
lies in unique ways and offer highly innovative programs that are
often later integrated into the publicschool system. Montessori
schools in particular are widely noted for their excellence of program
design and implementation, and I am confident that you will find this
program to be an outstanding example of fine practice. Thank you
for your consideration, Please ftel frte to call meif you have any
questions.
Sincerely, 7d52bJ
P. 01
Timothy D. Seldin
President
PSI @I 001
To: Lorraine Wood
Company: Cify Clerk
Fax No.: (760) 720-6917
From: Jan Taylor
Facsimile
Re: Casa Montessorl
Date: Fe6. 14,2003 -other-
No. of Pages: ( 2 ) Including Cover
Ph: Sent by Peter R. Taylor (858) 581-7799
Re: Letter of Supporf for Montessori Arts and Sciences
Thank-you,
Peter.
AGENDA ITEM #
C: Mayor city Council
City Manager
City Attorney
ConfidenfialQ Note; This r%w'mile transmisslan (including any rnaterbs accompanying this transmlsslon) is intended only for he
use of the individual to which It is addmssed, and may contain /Momation that Is privileged, secret, confidential, andor exempt fmm disclosure under appliceble law. If you are not the infended reciplenf. nor the em@oyee, nor egent msponslble for delivedng
this transmission to the intended recipient, YOU are hereby nofified thet any disclosure, copying, dlsiribution or use dhis trensmission Is strictly prohlhited. If you have recehed fhis communication in error, if is requested that you not@ the sender irnmedlafely to arrsnge for the return of this transmission at no cost.
02/14/03,, FRI 13:48 FAX 5815442
" c
PSI
USS TARAWA (LHA 1)
HC-I1 SAR DET 7 FPO AP 98622-WJD
Dear Carlsbad Cily Council:
This letter is in support of the school proped for 3016 Highland Drive. Mrs. Jan Taylor, the
applicant, is my mother. I was raised In the fine City of Carlsbad and attended Casa Montessori de Carlsbad, Buena Vista Elementary School, and later Magndia Elementary School, when the mes changed. 1 attended Tuffs University in Boston on a Navy ROTC scholarship and graduated with a
Degree in Mechanical Engineering. I spent the majority of my childhood at 1351 Pine Avenue,
delighted to be raised dose to my school, the park, the beach, the library and the community theater.
Although I am not currently a resident, I consider Carlsbad to be my hometown, and I intend to live there when I have fulfilled my obligation to the Navy.
Regretfully 1 am unable to attend the public hearing scheduled for 11 FebruarL, as I am
currently deployed aboard the US Tarawa in suppart of military actions overseas. As a helicopter pilot stationed at Naval Air Station North Island, I did have the opportunity to attend the first Planning
Cornrnlssion hearing. At that meeting, I was struck by the contrast of the presenWions given by those in suppart of the project and those opposed. It appeared to me that the bfly goals and caopeFative
nature of the project's advocates were dramatically offset by the pmvucative, and sometimes irrational arguments, of those few indwiduals opposed. It was evident to me that the opposition was eager to Mst any excuse they could come up with into a reasan to block the development of the proposed
school. How many traffic studies does it take to prove that the effect will be negligible? How much of a
disturbance can 36 children really be in a supervised environment between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and
3:OO p.m.? Finally, who could possibly be more concerned wlth the safety, both perceived and actual,
of her students, than a 20 plus year veteran teacher and school owneR
I have seen Jan Taylor in action. For her, like any great educalw, teaching is not merely a lob. It is, quite literally, a calling, a gift, that springs from the heart. Her pmject is the realization of a dream
to create and operate an institution where a small group of students can receive an indvidwbed
education in CARLSBAD. I am very proud of ME, Taylor's dedication to this project It is her dedication
that will make it a success. I say give her a chance. The property Is right, the timing is right, and the people involved are right You Can be sure that the children Ma receive an education at 3016 Highland Drive will be future leaders in our community.
LT Aaron Taylor
15 February 2003
Mr. Claude (Buddy) Lewis, Mayor
and. Council Members
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Dear Buddy and Council Members,
Please considers the issue of a Montessori School on Carlsbad Village Drive
and Highland Drive very carefully. Safety and traffic are our primary concerns.
Both streets are major thoroughfares and generate a great deal of traffic during
the morning hours. My sister, Frances, and myself live on James Drive, behind
the proposed site and have experienced the traffic and we can even hear the
noise and commotion that the small school now generates.
Ms. Taylor should have foreseen the problems and the opposition that her
project would generate in this mostly old residential area. Ms. Taylor‘s property
on Pine Street would have been more suitable and safety and traffic would not
have been such an issue.
You, our leaders, have to make the right decisions and choices. You should not
be influenced by people who do not reside in the area and who do not have the
neighborhood‘s interest at heart. The taxes or income generated by this project
will not offset the well being and quality of life of our peaceful neighborhood.
Please consider wisely.
Sincerely yours
Ofelia E. Eskdo
UNION-TRIBVNE
Carlsbad Coupcil delays its decision
By Hala Ali Aryan
STAFF WRITER
parents, friends. neighborsand CARKSBAD - Dozens of
relatwes spoke on her behaif. Several said she. had helped make their children the suc- ce& people they are today. One man choked up as he
talked about the wonderful in. looked down at his son and
fluence she had on the boy.
an educator Jan Taylor may be, But regardless of how great
the City Council must decide whether the Montessori whool-
she has dreamed of building. fits in a neighborhood of homes. A petition signed by 120 residents said it doesn't
council chambers Tuesday, About 120 people packed the
about half to support the pro- posed schooland haifto oppose it. The meeting ran so late that the council delayed its dims
Tuesday. That meeting will be sion and vote until this coming
at 6 p.m. in the council cham
Wage Drive. bers at City Hall, 1200 Carlsbad
Taylor, a longhe educator, wants to build a fst- through sixthgrade school for 36 chil- * dren and four teachers at Carle bad Wage Drive and Highland
SEE SchWl,Page3
I- -
$QH&L
CONTINUEDFROMPAGEI
Drive. She now ms a child- cm, home for 14 children on the 0.7-acre site.
ism 2.06%qvarefoot house She wap@ to convert the ex-
into classrooms, office space, a kitchen, restrooms and study area She also wants to build an
classroom sRace, a fiespace additiod 668 square feet of
parking lot and retaining and sound walls, and to landscape the area.
ergy with ?he Cole Library, the "It would create a great syn-
Arts Office, civic and profee
town old vinage of Carlsbad," sional offices and the down-
Taylor said. She expbined that the Mo@ :mri philosophy en- cwilges sending students out 1 htotheo vnunitytoleam. , Taylor used to run Casa
Visually, it will stand out;" said David Waite, who lives on nearby James Drive. "Nothing they do will make this look like a residence." Ne' hbors say the school woul?be noisy and create too
tW&ya~j760)476-8235: hala.aryan@uniontrib.cam
AGENDAITEM # b
C: Mayor
City CowneQ
City Manager
City Attornsjr *- Councilmember Finnila
RE Montessori School at 30 16 Highland Drive
Just one observation on the huge emotional outpouring from the friends,
neighbors and opponents of the proposed school. Many of the signs and
comments from opponents and neighbors express and underlying concern that
approval of this "commercial" school is a cancer of commercial growth in Old
Carlsbad and that it will lead to a bed and breakfast at my home (which has only 3
bedrooms) and 7- 1 1 s along Highland Drive. This distrust of staff and Council
members needs to be changed to confidence. I hope you can approve this project
which I am mildly in favor of and restore confidence among the residents over
time.
I have no children, attended public school, understand zoning and real estate very
well, and have no motive to support the school. There is a need for non
denominational schools and I'd rather live near a small school than near Michaelle.
I voted for you too!
Sincerely,
r u 2987 Highland Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008