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Community Education annual report: enrollment shifts, Kid Connection waiting lists down, screening rates improve
Summary
District community education director presented the annual report covering the fiscal year ending June 30, data on early childhood programs, Kid Connection, adult enrichment and aquatics. Enrollment trends showed program-specific increases and declines and the fund balance had recovered after COVID-era deficits.
The Farmington School Board received an annual report from the district’s Community Education director summarizing enrollment and financial trends for the fiscal year ending June 30 (prior year). Bri Astiff presented program-by-program data, explained enrollment shifts since the COVID period, and described a restored fund balance in community education programs.
Highlights and data presented
- Kid Connection: Enrollment increased after the district hired more staff; the current waiting list is small (the director reported roughly 10 or fewer, school-dependent).
- Early Childhood and Screening: Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) enrollment rose in part because the state changed how one-time events are counted; the district reported improved screening rates for 3-year-olds and near-complete screening for kindergarten entrants.
- Tiger Preschool and Stepping Stones: Preschool enrollment held steady after COVID-era declines; Astiff said rising staff costs and parent price sensitivity are constraining program growth at younger ages.
- Youth enrichment, aquatics, adult education: Enrollment varied by program; theater offerings and partnerships with local coaches affected year-to-year swings. Aquatics and swim lessons are constrained by pool availability and lifeguard staffing.
- Finances and fund balance: Community Education’s fund balance has recovered and was reported at about 12% of its budget after earlier COVID-era drawdowns; Astiff said fund balances are intended for one-time projects and must be managed accordingly. Staff and board clarified that Community Education operates in a separate fund from the district’s general operating fund and that fund balances are legally constrained.
Board questions and next steps
Board members asked about waiting lists for Kid Connection and swim lessons, staffing constraints, and market comparisons for preschool pricing; Astiff said Kid Connection waiting lists are small, swim lessons have large waits tied to pool time and staffing, and preschool pricing is in line with comparable providers when combined with full-day wrap needs. The board and director discussed plans to expand events, hire marketing and events staff, and refine adult-enrichment offerings.
Ending
Board members thanked Astiff for the report and noted the program’s role in the community; the board accepted the informational item by motion later in the meeting.
