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Board agrees to explore pay‑for‑service, grants and scholarships after $380,000 aftercare funding gap noted
Summary
Administration told the board a potential $380,000 shortfall threatens after‑school programming at several schools when state OST grant funding lapses; trustees asked staff to model parent‑pay options, seek grants and prioritize equity safeguards.
District staff told trustees the district currently has grant funding that covers extended learning programs at six schools but faces a potential funding gap for remaining sites when state OST grant funds run out.
"The cost of running programming at these schools is $380,000," a district presenter said, noting 20 First Century grant funding covers six sites and a separate OST grant (referred to in the meeting as '32 n') currently supports other sites only through Sept. 30. Administration requested board direction to pursue a no‑cost extension, local foundation grants, parent‑pay models or community sponsorships to sustain programming.
Trustees discussed equity tradeoffs of a parent‑pay model and ways to mitigate hardship. Several trustees urged exploring scholarships, employer supports and church sponsorships; others emphasized communicating clearly to families why funding is limited and the need to protect access for families who cannot pay. Board members expressed support to explore pay‑for‑service as a ‘‘Plan B’’ while staff pursue grant extensions and philanthropic support.
District staff said they will run cost models and return with a recommended plan that includes equity safeguards and possible scholarship or subsidy mechanisms. No final vote was taken; trustees directed staff to continue exploring funding options.
