In just a few years, the school grew from eight students to three hundred sixty. In 1979, because of this tremendous growth, the Church and School Board moved the elementary school to a new location in La Canada. The Pre-School remained at its present campus. In 1990, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph and Savey Tufenkian, a well respected couple in the Armenian community, made a generous donation of $250,000 in memory of their son, who tragically passed away the previous year. In honor of its benefactors and their beloved son, the pre-school was renamed St. Mary’s Richard Tufenkian Pre-School.
The Western Prelacy established a new school structure. The Board of Regents became the new governing board. Education and Finance Committees were assigned to assist the director in the daily operation of the school. Through their efforts and dedication, the school continues to grow.
From the very beginning, the Board of Trustees had supported the school’s philosophy and program goals. Without their close involvement, many of the schools achievements would not have been realized. Their presence has always been an important part of school functions.
During these past 15 years, Mr. and Mrs. Tufenkian have kept their son’s legacy alive through their continued financial and moral support for the school. As the school’s guardians, they have provided guidance and assistance when the need has arisen.
In May 2004, Mr. and Mrs. Tufenkian once again stepped forward and assisted the school by donating the property adjacent to the school. This property, valued at $450,000, was used to expand the existing parking lot.
St. Mary’s Tufenkian Pre-School is licensed by the state of California and is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) since 1998.
