Planning commission backs expansion of La Scuola' mission campus with conditions to manage traffic and community ties

The Planning Commission approved a planned-unit development for La Scuola International School to expand its Mission campus and rehabilitate the landmark Saint Charles School building. Staff recommended approval with conditions, noting the project preserves the historic structure while adding a new four-story, 20,370-square-foot classroom building, renovated play yard and bicycle parking.

Monica Giacomucci of Planning staff said findings were updated to note the sponsor will seek a transportation sustainability fee (TSF) exemption as a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit and added a condition requiring the sponsor to hire a transportation consultant if vehicle queuing becomes an issue or enrollment reaches 350 students. La Scuola's founder, Valentina Mbenia, described the school's pedagogy and the expanded classrooms' role in serving a diverse, multilingual student body.

Public comment included broad neighborhood support from arts and neighborhood organizations, parents and local unions; some written opposition from a neighborhood group (United to Save the Mission) was acknowledged and the sponsor said it remains open to further negotiation. Commissioners added a condition asking the Planning Department to facilitate a meeting with community groups and the project sponsor before the end of 2023 to pursue a good-neighbor agreement. The commission voted to approve the conditional use authorization and related site-specific conditions unanimously.