We, the undersigned parents, families, and community members, urge the Soquel Union Elementary School District to immediately reconsider its decision to close the Opal Cliffs Preschool and daycare program.

This closure will displace families, reduce access to childcare, and weaken a vital part of our local community. According to recent reporting, the district intends to close the Opal Cliffs school facility in order to build administrative offices.

As parents, we are deeply concerned about the real-world consequences of this decision:

• Severe childcare shortages: Families report that nearby daycare centers already have waitlists of five months or longer. 
• Increased commute burdens: Traveling across town is not feasible for many working families due to traffic and scheduling constraints.
• Loss of a trusted, nurturing environment: Opal Cliffs Preschool is more than a facility—it is a community where children learn, grow, and build lasting relationships.

At a time when working families need more childcare support—not less—closing this program sends the wrong message.

We understand the district faces financial and logistical pressures. However, replacing a critical early childhood program with administrative functions prioritizes infrastructure over children and families.

We call on the district to:

• Pause the closure of Opal Cliffs Preschool and daycare.
• Conduct a transparent community impact assessment.
• Explore alternative solutions that preserve childcare access.
• Engage parents and community stakeholders in decision-making.

Our children deserve stability. Our families deserve support. Our community deserves better.

Sign this petition to stand with Opal Cliffs families and protect access to essential childcare.