District reports early childhood census process; staff say numbers dipped since 2020 peak

Emily Isaacson, the district’s parent educator and early‑childhood liaison, explained the district’s early childhood census process and how the results inform kindergarten outreach and program planning.

What the board heard: the census counts children birth through age 5 within Lincoln County School District #2 boundaries (from Caulfield to Alpine). The data collection runs in December and January; the district uses an online platform plus phone calls and in‑person follow up. Isaacson said the work is spread across 21 census workers who live in and know different parts of the district to improve completeness. This year the census was offered in Spanish in addition to English.

How the data are used: Isaacson said the district collects names, birthdays and parental contact information so school secretaries can reach families in the year children enter kindergarten; the parent‑education team also sends two mailers to families of 4‑year‑olds (spring and late summer) with registration information and activities to prepare children for kindergarten. She said the district will share aggregate numbers with community partners on request but will not release personal data.

Trend and context: Isaacson said the census showed a decline in total young‑child counts compared with prior years; she noted 2020 was the district’s largest year for the cohort. The district keeps historical totals for planning and said staff use the data to identify areas where services, playgroups and transition supports are most needed.

Next steps: the liaison and community partners will continue outreach and share aggregate reports with the district to support enrollment planning and early‑childhood program placement.