C O U N T Y O F S A N M A T E O

County Manager's Office

TO: Honorable Board of Supervisors

FROM: John L. Maltbie, County Manager

SUBJECT: After-School Homework Center Agreement for 2002-03 School Year

Background and Discussion

As part of the FY 2002-03 Budget, the Board approved funding to continue the operation of After School Homework Centers in local school districts throughout the county. There are a total of 144 elementary schools in 20 districts within the County. It is estimated that almost 6,000 students are being served this year at 67 participating elementary and middle schools in 16 school districts, approximately the same level of district participation (80%) as last school year. These schools have undergone an application and approval process and entered into individual agreements with the County Superintendent of Schools in order to receive funds from the County. Every County dollar is 40% matched by funding from local businesses, foundations, categorical funds and other sources identified by each school.

Performance Highlights

Performance data for the last two school years is on the next page. Some highlights for the 2001-02 school year:

· 5,968 students were served, representing a 20% increase from the previous year.

· 3,610 or 60% of students served used the Homework Centers at least two days per week.

· 3,673 or 62% showed improvement in grades and attendance compared to 55% in the previous year.

· 1,937 or 91% of students who were at risk of retention were promoted to the next grade.

· 1,089 or 97% of all parents and 566 or 96% of all teachers responding to the Homework Center survey agreed that the centers are providing the necessary academic assistance to improve the achievement of participating students.

· 1,108 or 99% of all parents and 585 or 99% of all teachers responding to the Homework Center survey agreed that the centers are providing a safe learning environment after school.

Vision Alignment

The Homework Centers primarily contribute to the commitment of Sow the Seeds of Our Future Prosperity, Goal 19: the skill level of new workers rises with improved K-12 education and training opportunities, and to the commitment Ensure Basic Health and Safety for All, Goal 6: Children grow up healthy in safe and supportive homes and neighborhoods.

Fiscal Impact

The term of the agreement is July 1, 2002 through June 30, 2003. Compilation and review of performance and financial data submitted by individual schools/school districts as well as additional time required to prepare and review the agreement were causes for the delay of this item. Total funding for the agreement in FY 2002-03 is $535,290. General Fund dollars in the amount of $400,000 was approved by the Board for this purpose in the FY 2002-03 Memberships and Contributions Budget. The remainder will come from unspent County funds carried over from prior years. Discussion of funding to continue the Homework Centers next school year at the current level of participation will take place during development of the County's FY 2003-04 Budget.