Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Claire Cunningham, Director, Human Services Agency
Subject: Measure K: Agreements with School Districts Partnering with The Big Lift to Support Transitional Kindergarten Through Third Grade (TK-3) Students
RECOMMENDATION:
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Measure K: Adopt a resolution authorizing three (3) agreements with the following school districts for the purpose of operating The Big Lift early learning initiative to increase kindergarten readiness, and increase third grade reading proficiency in San Mateo County with the following school districts, each for the term of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027:
A) Millbrae Elementary School District in an amount not to exceed $189,800; and
B) Pacifica School District in an amount not to exceed $217,900; and
C) Ravenswood City School District in an amount not to exceed $269,434.
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BACKGROUND:
The Big Lift is a collective impact initiative led by the County of San Mateo Human Services Agency, the San Mateo County Office of Education, and San Mateo County Libraries. Third grade reading proficiency is a critical milestone linked to long-term academic achievement, economic mobility, and overall life outcomes. However, several school districts within San Mateo County have third grade reading proficiency rates below both the County and state averages.
In 2023, The Big Lift underwent a comprehensive strategic planning process to maximize impact and ensure the efficient use of resources. A key outcome of this process was the prioritization of partnerships with San Mateo County school districts and preschool networks where third grade reading proficiency rates lag behind the County average, aligning with The Big Lift’s mission to close literacy gaps and improve outcomes for children facing the greatest barriers to success.
On March 17, 2025, this Board approved recommended Measure K budget allocations for The Big Lift Program in preparation for the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Recommended Budget, which will not be adopted until September 2026. Only school districts and preschool programs with third grade reading proficiency rates below County and state averages are eligible to participate. Funding is based on projected enrollment, with reimbursement provided for actual services delivered.
DISCUSSION:
Human Services Agency is requesting that the County execute agreements with each of the eligible participating school districts for the term of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, for a total aggregate obligation amount of $677,134 to support early literacy initiatives as part of The Big Lift (TBL).
These organizations met all eligibility criteria, demonstrated a strong commitment to early literacy, and serve San Mateo County communities with the highest levels of need.
Each partner will receive a base allocation and a per-pupil supplement to support implementation of TBL early literacy and language strategies, professional development for educators and district leadership, enhanced family engagement, and evaluation activities. Allocations are as follows:
Millbrae School District: $189,800 total ($134,000 base + $55,800 per-pupil).
Pacifica School District: $217,900 total ($134,000 base + $80,400 per-pupil + $3,500 professional development).
Ravenswood City School District: $269,434 total ($134,000 base + $56,650 per-pupil + $78,784 Tier II supports).
These allocations reflect a combination of base funding and enrollment-based supplements to ensure equitable distribution of resources based on partner size and level of need.
The County Attorney’s Office has reviewed and approved the agreement and resolution as to form.
The resolution contains the County’s standard provisions allowing amendment of the County’s fiscal obligations by a maximum of $25,000 per contract in the aggregate.
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
|
Measure |
FY 2026-27 Target |
|
Percentage of classrooms implementing key components of the Literacy Action Plan, including use of DIBELS data, MTSS structures, and participation in professional learning communities (PLCs). |
90% |
|
Percentage of enrolled K-3 who are assessed using DIBELS 8th/Lectura during each assessment window (BOY, MOY, EOY) and whose data are submitted accurately and on time. |
85% |
|
Percentage of families of enrolled TK-3 students participating in at least one literacy-focused engagement activity. |
65% |
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
These agreements further advance equity in San Mateo County by providing high-quality learning experiences in districts where third grade reading proficiency rates fall below the County average. The program prioritizes enrollment for families defined as households earning up to 80 percent of the County’s area median income, based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development income guidelines.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The term of these agreements is July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, for a total amount of $677,134. Funding for these agreements is through The Big Lift’s Measure K revenue. Budgetary appropriation for these agreements are included in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Adopted Budget and will continue to be included in future budgets. There is no Net County Cost associated with these agreements.