County selection committee recommends Lumen Public Schools to run a pregnant/parenting youth wellness and education support pilot

Ashley reported to the board that the county issued an RFP in May to replace a discontinued youth caregiver respite program and to support youth education and retention. The county received one application from Lumen Public Schools; a scoring committee composed of clinical and community partners evaluated the submission and gave Lumen an overall score of 235 out of a possible 400 (reported as 58.75%).

Committee members found strengths in Lumen’s community connections, advocacy history and culturally responsive approach, but also noted areas where the agency would require support in building behavioral‑health capacity for this new service. The selection committee recommended moving forward with contracting and planned administrative supports to help Lumen build the program.

Staff estimated the pilot contract at approximately $180,000, starting in fall 2025, and said initial services would be offered to students enrolled at Lumen High School while contract and operational details are finalized.

Why it matters: the program targets pregnant and parenting youth, a group with higher risks for disruption of education and increased behavioral‑health needs; the county plans to provide administrative support during contract build‑out to address capacity gaps noted by reviewers.

What remains to clarify: committee scoring methodology and the single‑applicant response rate indicate a limited market for the solicitation; staff said they will use contracting terms to address capacity gaps and ensure program development.