Questions and Answers About the Expansion

Jerusalem Expansion Committee Update:  The New Jerusalem

As we get closer to launching the “Building a New Jerusalem” expansion project, several questions have been raised. Some of these questions have immediate answers, while other questions can only be answered later once the project starts. It can be stressful and intimidating going into a big project like this and not have all the answers, but rest assured, God does. The Jerusalem Expansion Committee is working very hard behind the scenes to be good stewards of Jerusalem’s resources and is pushing ahead to achieve Jerusalem’s mission of “serving a diverse community with the unique message of Christ’s love.” With that in mind, here are some questions that have been raised.

Q: How many students have we turned away as a result of limited space?

A: Over the course of the last 5 years, 7-10 PreK students have been turned away each year. In the past year, 4 students in K-8 have been turned away. 

Q: Which grades do we expect to reach capacity?

A: K-2 has already reached capacity. Grades 3-4 are projected to reach capacity in 2 years. Grades 5-6 are expected to exceed capacity in 3 years (considering the current Grades 1-2 enrollment) and due to the smaller current classroom. Grades 7-8 are also at capacity.

Q: How many additional students will be able to enroll at Jerusalem as a result of this expansion project?

A: We anticipate an increase of 30-45 students (30 in PreK and 15 in grades K-8).

Q: How much will revenue increase from the additional students?

A: We expect $21,400 monthly with a 30-student increase and a tuition adjustment and $42,400 monthly with a 45- student increase and a tuition adjustment.

Q: How much will a $3M loan increase our budget?

A: If our current monthly church budgetary needs are $32,608, we would be paying an additional $17,500 for the loan (based on a 30-year loan with a 6% interest rate). Our budget would be increased by 58%. We anticipate that the increased tuition and enrollment from the school would balance this increased budget.

Q: What is our fundraising plan?

A. $1M by May (2026)!  The capital campaign will be run by a Jerusalem Expansion Sub-Committee, directed by Kate Ninke. We have researched and conducted meetings with potential capital campaign consultants and are confident (with God’s guidance) that it can be done, saving $30-$50K that can be used towards expansion.

Q: What is Plan B if we do not raise the $1M by May (2026)?

A: We continue to collect money, revise the timeline, and break ground later than planned. Unfortunately, that would affect the cost of the project as costs would increase.

Q: How will the 4K classroom and the secretary’s office maintain operations during construction?

A: The secretary could work out of Mr. Kim’s current office. The PreK 4 classroom could have class on the stage in the basement during the morning and naptime in Mrs. Kalbach’s room in the afternoon.

  At the July 27th Congregational meeting, the members will have the opportunity to vote to begin a capital fundraising campaign. The congregation will also have time to enjoy fellowship, culminating with a cookout picnic in the parking lot after the meeting. Hope to see you there!