Lake Tahoe parents urge county to save Roots and Wings preschool after staff notice

During public comment a string of parents and local residents urged immediate action to preserve Roots and Wings, a 32‑year‑old early‑education program near Lake Tahoe. Justin Center, who identified himself as a Douglas County resident and parent, said staff had moved to shutter the program "less than 90 days before the school year opens" and accused staff of sending a letter that induced panic. "When pressed about this potential closing, county staff claimed that there was a budget crisis. However, this board fully funded the operational funding for this upcoming school year months ago," Center said.

Parents said the preschool serves three‑year‑olds and that other school options do not reliably serve that age cohort. Michelle Athetherton, of Stateline, said the local toddler population is growing and that Roots and Wings is the only public program on the Nevada side accepting three‑year‑olds; she asked the board to "help restore predictability" by providing long‑term support. Several speakers asked the board to clarify whether tax‑generated funds being proposed for other projects — including fairground improvements and temporary rodeo seating referenced during public comment — would instead be used to keep the preschool operating.

Board members said they heard the public’s concerns and indicated staff would be asked for clarifying information. No formal board action on Roots and Wings was taken during the meeting; the comments were recorded in the public‑comment record and staff were asked to follow up as needed.

Why it matters: public commenters tied early childhood care to the county’s broader economic and community vitality, noting births and demand reported by local medical providers. Parents seeking assurance said a public statement of ongoing funding or a concrete plan would reduce uncertainty for families preparing for the coming school year.