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Kids Council reports expanded preschool slots, caregiver cafe pilot and workforce-housing childcare talks
Summary
The Custer County Kids Council said Universal Preschool funding allowed 6 additional full-day slots, piloted a caregiver drop-in program, and is exploring mission-driven financing to pair affordable homes with licensed family child-care providers.
The Custer County Kids Council updated the Board of Commissioners on May 22 about early-childhood program developments, including an expansion of full-day preschool slots funded through the state's Universal Preschool (UPK) program, a caregiver drop-in pilot in partnership with Pines Ranch and outreach about pairing affordable workforce housing with family child-care homes.
Why it matters: Access to preschool and childcare affects local workforce participation, family stability and early learning outcomes; new funding and partnerships are intended to expand affordable options without large new county subsidy.
Key points - UPK slots: The council said the Universal Preschool structure increased available full-day preschool slots from 10 to 16; 15 hours of preschool are funded for all 4-year-olds, with an additional 15 hours funded based on eligibility criteria. - Caregiver cafe pilot: A drop-in childcare pilot at Pines Ranch (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays) provides workspace, Wi-Fi and childcare; the pilot will continue through summer with potential sustainability planning. - Affordable workforce housing + childcare: The council reported contact with Mission Driven Finance and Rural Homes Colorado, which can help finance and equip homes for family child-care providers and provide options for eventual home ownership after a probationary period. - Community events: The council's Family Fun Day is June 14 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) with partners and historically large attendance.
Board context: The council clarified that while the county is fiscal agent, its operating funds come from state and foundation sources and not county general fund allocations; current funding extends through June 30, 2026.
