My name is Naz Tomassian and my daughter attends First Lutheran Children’s Center in Redlands, California. Stunningly, suddenly, and without any true explanation, the school is being shut down by the pastoral staff of the Lutheran church that the school is an extension of. They cite COVID as a guise, when state and national regulations are becoming more relaxed, and there have been no recent cases or exposures. In December, there was a potential COVID exposure and the school closed immediately. However, they are using COVID as reason now, and instead of closing immediately—they’re giving a termination date of March 18–3 weeks from now.

 

The pastoral staff did not inform parents, staff, or children of any potential discussion for alternative options, just the termination decision. This leaves children like my four year old daughter and her friends to again be plagued by the inconsistent normalcy of every day life. In addition to the potential developmental and social disregard for our children, the pastoral staff has terminated all educators from the school, with their end date as March 18th as well. These teachers have been a part of FLCC ranging from 7 years to over 20 years. They were given no explanation, no time to plan, and no severance. Their only consolation was the invite to potentially apply as a staff member to the daycare that will be taking the place of the school. That’s right. The Pastor is shutting down the school, citing COVID, but then to open up a daycare in its place. Oh, and did I mention the Pastor is retiring in June? Convenient.

 

We, the parents, are enraged for our children, and for our teachers. We created this to help our teachers to be able to pay their bills, feed their children, stay in their homes. Whatever you can give will be a gift beyond value. Please pray for our kids and our teachers. Spread the word!! They need all the support they can get!

The proceeds will be donated to Ms. Burgess, Ms. Buffington, Ms. Cerrillo, Ms. Lehman and their respective families.  Help show your support and appreciation! Thank you all.