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 for The Big Lift Inspiring Summers Program
RECOMMENDATION:
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Measure K: Adopt a resolution authorizing agreements for the purposes of operating The Big Lift Inspiring Summers Program to reduce learning loss during the summer months with the following seven school districts:
A) Bayshore Elementary School District for the term of May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $81,179; and
B) Cabrillo Unified School District for the term of May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $107,428; and
C) La Honda-Pescadero Unified School District for the term of May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $80,001; and
D) Millbrae Elementary School District for the term of May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $117,455; and
E) Pacifica School District for the term of May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $91,717; and
F) San Bruno Park School District for the term of May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $95,033; and
G) South San Francisco Unified School District for the term of May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $294,438.
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BACKGROUND:
In 2012, the Peninsula Partnership Leadership Council (PPLC) - a coalition of government, education, nonprofit, foundation, and business leaders in San Mateo County - launched “The Big Lift” to significantly improve children’s third grade reading proficiency through strategic, thoughtful, evidence-based investments in early learning and education. The Big Lift is a collective impact collaborative led by three agencies - the County of San Mateo (County), San Mateo County Office of Education (COE), and the San Mateo County Libraries (SMCL).
Now in its tenth year, The Big Lift’s Inspiring Summers program led by San Mateo County Libraries enrolls over 900 rising kindergarten through third-grade students annually in partner school districts. The program provides four weeks of high-quality instruction that blends daily literacy lessons with STEAM enrichment, field trips, and hands-on learning at no cost to participating families.
Summer learning is a critical strategy for addressing academic opportunity gaps and preventing learning loss, particularly among children from underserved communities. Without access to high-quality summer programs, many students lose ground in reading and math-contributing to persistent disparities in academic achievement.
DISCUSSION:
In 2023, The Big Lift refined its strategy through an in-depth strategic planning process aimed at maximizing impact and ensuring the effective use of resources. A key outcome of this work was the prioritization of partnerships with San Mateo County school districts where third-grade reading proficiency rates fall below 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.
In 2024, following a comprehensive application process, funding was awarded to all eight eligible school districts that applied, along with four preschool organizations. These investments support early literacy initiatives that currently serve 8,243 unduplicated pre-school through third-grade students and their families including the Inspiring Summers program. Each district partnering with The Big Lift to implement the Inspiring Summers program has been awarded funding based on the projected number of students to be served. All contracts awarded to Big Lift implementation partners are based on an up to reimbursable amount, reimbursement is made based on services rendered.
The Big Lift’s funding priorities center on evidence-based literacy instruction, high-quality professional development for educators, and robust family engagement-ensuring children gain the foundational skills necessary for reading success and long-term academic achievement.
Approval of the attached resolution will authorize agreements with seven of the eight school districts that applied to implement the Inspiring Summers program in addition to school year supports. All seven districts were awarded funding because they met eligibility criteria, demonstrated readiness and commitment through their applications, and serve communities in San Mateo County where the need for literacy support is greatest.
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
|
Measure |
FY 2024-25 Actual |
FY 2025-26 Target |
|
Percentage of participating students that increase or maintain their reading level as measured by DIBELS End of Year and Beginning of Year assessment. |
76% |
80% |
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
These agreements further advance equity in San Mateo County by providing high-quality summer learning experiences in districts where third-grade reading proficiency rates fall below the County average. Prioritizing enrollment for students who do not meet grade-level standards in language arts, qualify for free or reduced-price meals, are designated as English language learners, experiencing homelessness, and/or are in the foster care system.
The Big Lift initiative, centered in family engagement, kindergarten readiness, and achieving reading proficiency by the end of third grade, is pivotal for early academic success. Early academic success is a key indicator in future achievements, including high school graduation and post-secondary education, economic mobility, enhanced health outcomes, and overall quality of life.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The term of these agreements are May 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025, for a total amount of $867,251. The total obligation of these agreements are anticipated to be funded through The Big Lift’s Measure K revenue. Budgetary appropriation for this agreement is included in FY 2024-25 Adopted Budget and will be included in future budgets.