REPORT TO THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
SUBJECT
Title
Proposed Project:
USE PERMIT: To allow the operation of Helix Academy, an elementary microschool (30 students), in an existing church with no exterior changes proposed.
Location: 231 Sunset Avenue (APN: 165-10-035)
File #: PLNG-2025-0753
Zoning: PF (Public Facilities)
Applicant / Owner: Casey Holder and Katherine Holder (applicant) / St. Thomas's Parish Rec Wardens and Vest Al (owner)
Environmental Review: A Class 1 Categorical Exemption relieves this project from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) provisions.
Project Planner: Gabriela Ventura, 408-730-7407, gventura@sunnyvale.ca.gov
Report
BACKGROUND
Description of Proposed Project
Use Description: The application is for a proposed Primary Education use. The Sunnyvale Municipal Code (SMC) Section 19.24.030 allows for education uses within the Public Facilities zoning district subject to approval of a Use Permit. Helix Academy has applied for a Use Permit to establish a private elementary school serving students with unique educational needs. Students may attend either full-time as their primary school or part-time to supplement their homeschooling. The school will serve children between the ages of five and 12.
The school will operate within an existing 2,304-square foot stand-alone building located on a church property which was previously used as the church's Sunday school program. The church and parish hall will continue to operate their existing programs, including during school hours. These programs primarily include an outreach meal service for residents of Sunnyvale and nearby communities. Meals are served on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The school will operate independently from these church programs and will not share space with the meal service. For security purposes, school access doors will remain locked during the school day, and students will be supervised at all times.
Student drop-off and p...
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