IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT RE: SANDCASTLE CLOSURE
Sandcastle Early Learning Center to Close After 42 Years of Service
St. Paul, MN – May 1st, 2025 – After more than four decades serving the community’s families, Sandcastle Early Learning Center has announced it will permanently close its doors on May 9th, 2025.
In 2024, Sandcastle leadership initiated a comprehensive operational restructure aimed at addressing longstanding challenges and aligning with updated early learning standards. Despite those efforts, the center faced critical staffing shortages, including seven resignations during the restructuring process. While staff maintained compliance with all Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing requirements at all times, the center can no longer sustain operations at the level of care and stability for which it has been known.
"For many years, Sandcastle was celebrated for its small group sizes and personal attention to each child. However, that model has become increasingly difficult to maintain in today’s childcare environment," said Oona Myhre, Interim Administrator. "Despite the best efforts of our staff and leadership, the center’s operational model is no longer sustainable."
Sandcastle will work closely with enrolled families to assist with the transition and connect them with alternative childcare options.
“We are profoundly grateful to the families, staff, and community partners who have supported Sandcastle for the past 42 years,” added Mrs. Myhre. "It has been our great privilege to be part of so many children's early lives."
Families seeking additional information or assistance are encouraged to contact [email protected] .
About Sandcastle Early Learning Center:
Founded in 1981 by the Sisters of Notre Dame, Sandcastle Early Learning Center has served generations of families with a mission to nurture, educate, and inspire young learners in a safe and loving environment.
Media Contact:
Deacon Luis Rubi, Parish Business Administrator
Sandcastle Early Learning Center
[email protected]
St. Paul, MN – May 1st, 2025 – After more than four decades serving the community’s families, Sandcastle Early Learning Center has announced it will permanently close its doors on May 9th, 2025.
In 2024, Sandcastle leadership initiated a comprehensive operational restructure aimed at addressing longstanding challenges and aligning with updated early learning standards. Despite those efforts, the center faced critical staffing shortages, including seven resignations during the restructuring process. While staff maintained compliance with all Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing requirements at all times, the center can no longer sustain operations at the level of care and stability for which it has been known.
"For many years, Sandcastle was celebrated for its small group sizes and personal attention to each child. However, that model has become increasingly difficult to maintain in today’s childcare environment," said Oona Myhre, Interim Administrator. "Despite the best efforts of our staff and leadership, the center’s operational model is no longer sustainable."
Sandcastle will work closely with enrolled families to assist with the transition and connect them with alternative childcare options.
“We are profoundly grateful to the families, staff, and community partners who have supported Sandcastle for the past 42 years,” added Mrs. Myhre. "It has been our great privilege to be part of so many children's early lives."
Families seeking additional information or assistance are encouraged to contact [email protected] .
About Sandcastle Early Learning Center:
Founded in 1981 by the Sisters of Notre Dame, Sandcastle Early Learning Center has served generations of families with a mission to nurture, educate, and inspire young learners in a safe and loving environment.
Media Contact:
Deacon Luis Rubi, Parish Business Administrator
Sandcastle Early Learning Center
[email protected]
Letter sent to Families on 5/1/25
Founded over 40 years ago by the Sisters of Notre Dame, Sandcastle Early Learning Center is a top-rated early learning program where basic Christian and social values are experienced. Children from all races, creeds and religions are welcomed! We believe that each child is unique, and we will attempt to meet his / her individual needs using play-based learning techniques.
Sandcastle Early Learning Center, Church of St. Francis De Sales of St. Paul
|