Rochester School Committee members learned on Thursday night that a daycare center is interested in renting unused space inside the elementary school.

Business Director Patrick Spencer informed members that the owner/director of Countryside Child Care Center would sign a two-year contract to offer services in the space.

Spencer said the school would charge Countryside Child Care $1,600 per month for the first year and $2,000 per month the following year. Spencer asked the committee for authorization to negotiate the contract, which it did. The business is located in the Plumb Corner Mall.

Principal Derek Medeiros said owner Bonnie Morrison approached him with the idea. Around the same time, about a half dozen parents also asked about offering before school care for children.

“There’s a definitely a need in the community for something like this and will be very beneficial to our Rochester Memorial School families,” Medeiros said.

After school activities that include homework help and play sessions will likely also be offered, Medeiros said.