On April 30, 2024, the Facilities Oversight for Capital Utilization & Sustainability (FOCUS) Committee held its fifth meeting, engaging in a discussion centered around early learning facilities and the Birth to Five Center (BTF). The meeting featured a presentation by Stacy Lucas, the principal of the Birth to Five Center.
Principal Lucas presented data and program information that underscored the Birth to Five Center’s vital role in early childhood education and our community (Enumclaw, unincorporated King County, and Black Diamond). The Birth to Five Center, housed at J.J. Smith, serves a diverse student body, including 68 ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program) students, 40 Transitional Kindergarten students, 73 students in the Developmental Preschool program (DVPS), ten students receiving speak services, and four students participating in the peer model program, totaling 195 students.
Principal Lucas defined each program and shared data related to program performance. The data presented showed that BTF students are outperforming district and state averages. For example, she shared that 80% of Transitional Kindergarten students from Fall 2022 passed all six sections of the state assessment, indicating readiness for kindergarten—surpassing both the local (51%) and state (53%) averages.
During the meeting, the committee continued their conversation on financial strategies with insights into grant applications and other potential funding solutions. Committee members expressed an interest in minimizing reliance on community funding by exploring alternative revenue sources.
With the formation of a new subcommittee co-chaired by Kristiana de Leon and Angie Adam, they will investigate alternative learning models and other creative solutions related to capital facilities.
The committee plans to delve deeper into bond and levy financing at their next meeting.
The FOCUS committee will meet again on MAY 14, 2024, at 6:00 pm. The public is encouraged to attend and observe the FOCUS meetings. For more information about the committee, access to full meeting summaries, or to attend meetings virtually, visit our website: https://www.enumclaw.wednet.edu/page/citizens-advisory-committee