Vallejo City Unified School District Leases Former Franklin Middle School to Rising Star Nonpublic School, Generating Revenue and Revitalizing Community Asset

VALLEJO, Calif. – The Vallejo City Unified School District (VCUSD) announced that the board of education has approved a lease agreement with Rising Star Nonpublic School (NPS) for the former Franklin Middle School site. The agreement represents a significant step in repurposing an underutilized district property, delivering long-term fiscal benefits, and restoring educational opportunities to the Franklin campus.

The Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD), which currently leases the field and gym at Franklin, will not be affected by the agreement, ensuring continued access and partnership with the community.

Under the lease terms, Rising Star will relocate its nonpublic school program to Franklin, bringing students back into classrooms and reinvigorating the school grounds. The lease includes a three-month grace period during which the school will pay 50 percent of rent and utilities while the site undergoes certification for nonpublic school use. Full payment will begin in December 2025.

The lease runs from Oct. 2025 through Sept. 2030. VCUSD anticipates approximately $200,000 in lease revenue during the first year and $300,000 in the second year, providing steady income for the district’s general fund. In addition, the agreement is expected to reduce and ultimately eliminate site security costs in the coming years. Building maintenance will continue to be supported by the general fund.

The district undertook a transparent and thorough process to announce the site’s availability and ensure both public and private entities had the opportunity to participate:

Surplus Property Designation: In 2020, following a recommendation from the district’s 7-11 Committee—comprised of community members tasked with reviewing surplus property—the board designated Franklin Middle School surplus property under Education Code Section 17388.

Statutory Offer Process: In accordance with Education Code 17489, letters were sent to eligible public agencies, including the city and park district, offering the opportunity to lease or purchase the property. A public notice was also published in a local newspaper for three consecutive weeks, and additional letters were sent to other qualifying entities. Any nonprofit or public agency that had previously requested notification also received notice.

Private Entity Outreach: After the statutory process concluded, the opportunity was extended to private entities. At that stage, Rising Star entered into discussions with VCUSD regarding the lease.

“This lease reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility and community revitalization,” said VCUSD Superintendent Rubén Aurelio. “By partnering with Rising Star, we are returning students and learning to Franklin while strengthening the district’s financial outlook.”