Yolo County Office of Education secures agreement for Head Start preschool programs

The Regular Board of Education Meeting held on March 27, 2025, in West Sacramento, focused on several key agenda items, primarily concerning the renewal of an agreement with the Yolo County Office of Education for Head Start programs and the approval of an amendment related to the Westfield Village modernization project.

The meeting commenced with a discussion about the expired agreement with the Yolo County Office of Education, which had lapsed in July 2024. The agreement, now proposed for renewal until June 2026, includes provisions for potential extensions of one, two, or four years. The Yolo County Office of Education will operate five full-day and two part-day Head Start preschool programs, along with two early Head Start programs, utilizing shared facilities and office space.

A significant aspect of this agreement is the in-kind contribution from the district, valued at approximately $180,000 annually. This contribution covers essential services such as custodial work, pest control, and utilities necessary for maintaining the facilities. Additionally, the agreement stipulates that the Yolo County Office of Education will provide professional development for district staff at no cost, although questions arose regarding the extent and availability of this professional development.

Board members raised inquiries about the specifics of the professional development offerings and the financial implications of the agreement. Concerns were expressed about whether the district would generate sufficient funding to cover operational costs associated with the program, especially since the district previously managed the Head Start program before transferring it to the county.

Following the discussion, the board unanimously approved the renewal of the agreement, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education and the need for ongoing evaluation of the program's financial viability.

The meeting then transitioned to the approval of Amendment Number 1 for the AC Martin Architects contract related to the Westfield Village modernization project. This amendment addresses additional services required during construction, including structural engineering for unforeseen issues and graphic design work for the new physical education building and administration office. The board approved this amendment, recognizing the necessity of these additional services to ensure the project's successful completion.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to early childhood education through the renewal of the Head Start agreement and the ongoing modernization efforts at Westfield Village, while also acknowledging the need for careful financial oversight and planning for future educational programs.