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MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS
Head Start/Early Head Start 2014 Community Assessment Report Update
Administrative Offices: 1017 Reno Ave., Bldg. C
Modesto, CA 95351
2
Table of Contents
Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 3
Executive Summary ............................................................................................................. 5
Methodology ....................................................................................................................... 7
Service Area ........................................................................................................................ 8
Geography & Climate ...................................................................................................... 8
Population Demographics ............................................................................................... 8
Race & Ethnicity .............................................................................................................. 9
Languages ..................................................................................................................... 11
Educational Institutions ................................................................................................ 11
Housing ......................................................................................................................... 11
Socio-Economics ........................................................................................................... 14
Industries ...................................................................................................................... 15
Other Child Care ............................................................................................................ 15
Impact of California State Budget ................................................................................. 16
Service Delivery Locations ............................................................................................ 16
Families in the Service Area .......................................................................................... 19
Languages & Cultures Represented .............................................................................. 20
Education Level of Parents ........................................................................................... 23
Children with Disabilities .............................................................................................. 24
Health, Dental, Nutrition, Mental Health Needs .......................................................... 26
Other Needs .................................................................................................................. 28
Poverty ............................................................................................................................ 1
Estimated Number of Children ..................................................................................... 30
Waiting List ................................................................................................................... 30
Strengths and Needs of Families .................................................................................. 30
Community Resources .................................................................................................. 33
Resources & Collaborations .......................................................................................... 33
Results and Improvement Plans from Annual Self-Assessment .................................. 34
Data Analysis ................................................................................................................ 35
Conclusion Based on Data Analysis .............................................................................. 36
Proposed Changes ....................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.36
3
Introduction
Modesto City Schools was established March 20, 1871 by the Stanislaus County Board of
Supervisors. At that time, the District had an enrollment of 30 students.
The Modesto City Schools' Administration Office--located at 426 Locust Street--first served
as an elementary school. The building was constructed in 1923 at a cost of approximately
$38,000. In 1952, it was converted into administrative offices.
The oldest high school in Stanislaus County--Modesto High School--was established in
September 1883. Three years later, on May 27, 1886, 10 members of the first graduating
class received their high school diplomas.
Today there are more than 34,000 students in Modesto City Schools which is actually made
of two separate districts, an elementary and a high school district, under one shared Board of
Education and Administration.
Enrolled in programs reaching from infancy to adulthood, they are as diverse as the State of
California itself: one in seven of the nation's children live in our state. A growing number of
these children are not fluent in the English language. In fact, Modesto City Schools serves
more limited-English-proficient students than 97% of all other California school districts.
The Modesto City Schools Board of Education is made up of seven members. They are
elected at large by voters who live within the Modesto City Schools High School District
attendance area and serve four-year terms of office.
Board members determine school district policy, authorize new programs and curricula,
adopt budgets, approve staff employment, determine salary schedules and provide a unique
and crucial link between the community and the school district. Board members, together
with the Modesto City Schools Policy Committee, participate in shared governance to
operate the Head Start program. Eligible Head Start children are recruited from the Modesto
City Schools attendance area. (Meet the Board of Modesto City Schools at
http://schools.monet.k12.ca.us/Public/Board/default.aspx)
Modesto City Schools utilizes the Community Assessment as one of several planning tools in
the Head Start program. Data gathered is used to determine the following:
Service area
Recruitment area
The location of centers and family child care homes
Program options
Program goals and objectives
Priority for recruitment and selection
More information about the Modesto City Schools District may be found at
http://mcs.monet.k12.ca.us/default.aspx and
http://www.mcs4kids.com/departments/childdev/default.aspx
Recruitment Area
Currently Modesto City School’s Head Start program is funded to serve 480 children (460
base funded and 20 ARRA expansion funded), three to compulsory school age in part- and
full-day center-based programs. As approved previously by the Office of Head Start and the
California Department of Education’s Child Development Division, the three full-day
programs are “blended” with state California State Preschool Program funds. Blended
programs are defined as:
4
“Utilizing multiple funding sources without distinct periods of the day paid by each funding
source; used to create longer days and/or calendars. The Head Start Performance Standards
and state Funding Terms and Conditions are used simultaneously with the most stringent
taking precedence. This creates a longer day, week or program year.”
Applications for the Head Start program are accepted from throughout the county however,
children are primarily recruited from the Modesto City Schools’ attendance area boundaries.
The map below shows the location of the elementary schools operated by the District.
5
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
As part of the refunding application for the Modesto City Schools (MCS) Head Start program, a
Community Assessment (CA) was conducted. Administrators, Teachers, Family Service
Specialists, support staff and parents came together on several occasions to review program
information, analyze data, identify trends and develop program goals to guide the future of MCS
Child Development Programs. Data was reviewed from a variety of outside resources that included
the following: U.S. Census Bureau data, U.S. Department of Labor, California Department of
Education, California Employment Development Department, Central Valley Housing Association,
and the Stanislaus County Office of Education. Internal data was collected and analyzed from the
Program Information Report (PIR), School Readiness Plans, the annual self-assessment and parent
surveys. The results of the CA are approved by the MCS Delegate Parent Policy Committee and
the MCS Board of Education.
Major findings as a result of the CA process are as follows:
1. Due to the economy, many families have faced foreclosure; therefore, the number of
homeless families in the Modesto area continues to rise.
2. Many local social service agencies have struggled or ceased to exist. When surveyed,
families expressed concerns that waitlists and waiting periods for services are very long.
3. Based on waitlist numbers and program availability, the need for infant and toddler services
and programs has increased.
4. The number of two-parent families qualifying for Head Start has increased significantly
providing more opportunities for father/male involvement.
5. When surveyed, many unemployed families are seeking educational opportunities to
compete in the job market.
6. When surveyed, families expressed the need for low income dental and health providers.
Head Start staff reports transportation to dental/health providers is the number one reason
families do not follow up on referrals.
7. Many families are experiencing high levels of stress in their lives. However, due to a
variety of reasons, parental drug abuse, domestic violence and depression are not reported.
Head Start staff reports that the impact of these factors affects parents’ and children’s
outcomes significantly.
While these findings are significant, the MCS Child Development Programs will focus on the
following priorities through program goals and objectives that will have the most impact on the
program and eligible children and families. They are:
Goal #1 To increase community awareness and access to Modesto City Schools Child
Development Programs by 10% as evidenced by program waitlists.
Objective #1 Throughout the year, increase community outreach activities to include
churches, support agencies and festivals.
Objective #2 Analyze and research Early Head Start and Migrant Head Start expansion
opportunities for center-base, home-base and/or Family Child Care Homes
models.
6
Goal #2 To increase the number and strength of community partnerships to support
school readiness for children and families.
Objective #1 Twice throughout the year, provide training for the whole family especially
males/fathers to support school readiness at home and school.
Objective #2 Throughout the year, provide a series of trainings or information sessions for
parents and staff on topics such as, homelessness, foster care, gangs, child
abuse, drug abuse, obesity, nutrition and depression.
Objective #3 By the end of 2014-15, increase the number of lead staff and parents
participating on community advisory boards by 10%.
Goal #3 To increase staff skills to support and promote school readiness outcomes for all
children including children with special needs.
Objective #1 By the end of 2014-15, all Head Start staff will implement developmentally
appropriate strategies for working with young 3 year olds and multi-age groups
as measured by the CLASS tool.
Objective #2 By the end of 2014-15, all Head Start staff will implement strategies based on
the Center for Social Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL).
Objective #3 By the end of 2014-15, all staff will be trained on developmental screenings and
referrals for special needs including mental health referrals.
Objective #4 By the end of 2014-15, all staff will be trained on working with children with
special needs especially children with autism and speech disabilities.
7
Methodology
The CA process involves a lengthy data collection period and analysis. The development of
the CA began with the Grantee staff preparing guidance and data from the last three complete
PIR program years for each delegate agency. MCS collected internal data through School
Readiness Plans, self-assessment results, monitoring reports, classroom observations and
parent surveys.
Managers, teachers and support staff met on several occasions to review and analyze data
with a focus on the impact to program services. The committee analyzed the data in order to
identify significant issues and trends that were prioritized and addressed in the program goals
and objectives.
The final CA is reviewed and approved by the delegate Policy Committee and the MCS
Board. The final CA is submitted to the Grantee and incorporated in to the Grantee
Community Assessment Summary.
Activity Participants Date Completed
Training Needs Assessment
Head Start Staff February 2013
Community Assessment Survey
Head Start Families April 2013
Data Collection & Analysis Head Start Staff November 15, 2013,
February 7, 2014,
May 16, 2014
Head Start Program Quality/Budget
Committee Meetings
Admin, Head Start
Staff and Parents
October 23, 2013,
November 21, 2013,
January 24, 2014,
February 13, 2014,
February 26, 2104
DPPC Approval DPPC Executive
Committee and
Representatives
April 4, 2014
MCS Board Approval
MCS Board Members April 28, 2014
8
Service Area
Geography & Climate
A community proud of its vibrant citizenry, great traditions,
educational opportunities, and multicultural lifestyles, Modesto is
twice-blessed with mild weather year-round and some of the
world's richest soil. Part of California's fertile Central Valley,
which stretches 300 miles through the center of the state,
Modesto offers the diversity and facilities of a metropolitan city,
but still maintains an atmosphere of old-fashioned hospitality.
Centrally located on Highway 99, Modesto is easily accessible
from throughout California. West of the valley and over the
coastal mountain range lies the San Francisco Bay Area, a 90-
minute drive from Modesto. Eastward are the foothills that house the famed Mother Lode gold
country and lead to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range and Yosemite National Park.
Modesto is located in the heart of one of the greatest agricultural areas of our nation - the San
Joaquin Valley. Dairy products, almonds, apricots, melons, tomatoes, wine grapes, peaches,
walnuts and poultry products are some of our top commodities.
Since the 2000 Census, the population had increased in Modesto. However since its height in
2008, the population has decreased to below the 2000 Census level; lower population equals
lower enrollment numbers.
Population Demographics
202,971
239,729
201,165
180,000
190,000
200,000
210,000
220,000
230,000
240,000
250,000
2000 2008 2010
Modesto, CaliforniaPopulation Growth 2000 - 2010
Created: 1/11/2012
Source: U.S. Census, American Community Survey, 2000, 2008 and 2010
9
The chart below shows the number of children in Modesto between 3-5 years of age. Because
the general population has declined in the past three years, there are fewer children of
preschool age.
10,3136,444 3,092
202,556
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
Under 3 years 3 and 4 years 5 years Total Population
Modesto, CaliforniaTotal Population with
Children 5 Years and Younger-2009Created: 11/07/2011
Source: U.S. Census, 2009 American Community Survey
However, based on the map above, in areas surrounding Modesto City Schools Head Start
centers, there exists a large number of children under three years of age. Services and
programs for children under age three are very limited in the Modesto City Schools
elementary area.
10
Race & Ethnicity
City of Modesto
The most recent data on the racial and ethnic composition of Modesto comes from the US
Census’ 2008 American Community Survey. According to that data, Whites and Hispanics
make up the two largest groups in Modesto. The Asian community is next in line and shows
steady growth from 2008-2010.
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
White Hispanic Black orAfrican
Americanalone
AmericanIndian and
Alaska Nativealone
Asian NativeHawaiian
Multi-Racial Other
Modesto, CaliforniaHispanic and Race Population
2008 - 2010
Fiscal Year 2008
Fiscal Year 2009
Fiscal Year 2010
Created: 12/14/2011
11
Languages
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
140,000
English Spanish Indo-EuropeanLanguages
Asian and Pacific IslandLanguages
Other Languages
Modesto, CaliforniaLanguage Population
2008 - 2010
Fiscal Year 2008
Fiscal Year 2009
Fiscal Year 2010
Created: 12/20/2011
Predominant language spoken in City of Modesto is English, followed by Spanish. A small
percentage of the general population speaks Indo-European, Asian/Pacific Island or other
languages. Over the time period above, languages spoken other than English and Spanish
have slightly increased.
12
Housing
Stanislaus County is one of the top five counties in the nation with high home foreclosure
rates.1 ForeclosureRadar report shows that home foreclosures in Stanislaus County, although
fewer than 2008-09, continue to plague Stanislaus County. Since the fall of 2006, 21,000
properties have been lost to foreclosure. While the average home price has dropped
substantially between 2006 and 2010 from $369,500 to $135,000, buying a home is still out
of reach for Head Start families with incomes below the federal poverty line.
$159,300
$181,700
$212,700
$259,500
$339,000 $342,400
$293,900
$188,700
$139,700
$138,000
$124,300
$50,000
$100,000
$150,000
$200,000
$250,000
$300,000
$350,000
$400,000
July 2001 July 2002 July 2003 July 2004 July 2005 July 2006 July 2007 July 2008 July 2009 July 2010 July 2011
Modesto, CaliforniaMedian Home Price 2001-2011
Created: 11/28/2011
Source: http://www.zillow.com/
Unable to own a home, many families have entered into the rental market; however, the
average fair market rent has increased 18 percent since 2005 to an average price of $1,239
per month for a three bedroom unit. The good news is that between 2008 and 2009, the fair
market rents in the area have not changed and seem to be stabilizing. The bad news is that
fair market rents are projected to increase again in 2010. While limited Section 8 housing is
still available, 186 units have been lost over the past twelve years.
1http://www.modbee.com/2010/08/16/1295850/area-still-hard-hit-but-statistics.html
13
As homes are foreclosed, some families find themselves homeless as defined by the
McKinney-Vento Homeless Act. This problem not only affects the economic and financial
problem in the county, but now also incorporates the social problems of homelessness. The
National Center on Family Homelessness estimates that there are 122,902 children under the
age of six years old in California. Of those children, it is estimated 2,065 of them are under
the age of six in Stanislaus County. The Modesto City Schools District reports 1,991 children
or 7% of the total K-12 enrollment were identified as homeless in 2013. However, based on
the chart below, the numbers of homeless children and families enrolled in Head Start in the
last 3 years continues to decline. This may be due to problems accurately identifying
homeless families or the need for more intentional outreach.
14
Socio-Economics
$51,496
$49,604
$50,550
$48,500
$49,000
$49,500
$50,000
$50,500
$51,000
$51,500
$52,000
Fiscal Year 2008 Fiscal Year 2009 Fiscal Year 2010
Modesto, CaliforniaMedian Household Income
2008-2010Created: 12/20/2011
Household income took a large drop in 2009 as unemployment rates went up to a record
17.5%. A slight recovery has begun and the median household income increased almost 10%
in 2010 while the unemployment rate only dropped .2%.
15
Cost of Living in Stanislaus County remains slightly below California in general.
Industries
1,484
6,325
9,939
3,676
11,249
3,817
1,359
4,324
7,037
19,083
6,722
4,2493,125
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
Modesto, California
Modesto, CaliforniaEmployed by Industry 2009
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, andmining
Construction
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade
Retail trade
Transportation and warehousing, and utilities
Information
Finance and insurance, and real estate andrental and leasing
Professional, scientific, and management, andadministrative and waste management services
Educational services, and health care and socialassistance
Arts, entertainment, and recreation, andaccommodation and food services
Other services, except public administration
Public administration
Created: 11/14/2011
Source: U.S. Census, 2009 American Community Survey
Data from the US Census 2009 American Community Survey Estimate shows that the
primary industries in Modesto are 1) Education, Health and Social Service; 2) Retail Trade;
and 3) Manufacturing
16
Other Child Care
Name State
Funded Program Location
Estimated # of Children Served
Infants/Toddlers
(0-2.11)
Preschool
(3-5)
1. CSPP Bret Harte 72
2. CSPP Burbank 72
3. CSPP El Vista 48
4. CSPP Everett 96
5. CSPP Fairview 24
6. CSPP Franklin 72
7. CSPP Garrison 24
8. CSPP Kirschen 24
9. CSPP Mayris Baddell CDC 48
10. CSPP Marshall 24
11. CSPP Martone 20
12. CSPP Muir 24
13. CSPP Pearson 24
14. CSPP Robertson Road 96
15. CSPP Shackelford 48
16. CSPP Tuolumne 45
17. CSPP Wilson 24
18. CSPP Wright 24
19. CCTR Family Child Care
Homes (CCTR)
56 48
20. CalSAFE:
Elliott Alternative
Downey High
Modesto High
CalSAFE 30
Totals 86 857
In addition to Head Start, Modesto City Schools provides state funded preschool programs at
many school sites and in a Family Child Care Network. Only 56 Infants and toddlers are
served in the MCS Family Child Care Network and an additional 30 infants and toddlers
participate with their parent in the Modesto City Schools Calsafe program.
Based on birth rates in Stanislaus County by zip code, high numbers of infants and toddlers
exist in the area. Services and programs, such as, Early Head Start would be a valuable
support for families in the Modesto City Schools District area. Collaboration with state
funded General Child Care programs, community efforts and the local Calsafe program
would provide more comprehensive program opportunities for children and families.
Zip Codes Children under 3 years old
95350 1,841
95351 2,659
95354 1,050
95355 2,859
95356 1,371
95357 261
95358 1,288
17
New proposals to Expand Quality Early Learning in California
Two new proposals have been introduced highlighting early education as a top priority for
California and may impact Head Start program services and models in the near future. The
first proposal, Senate Bill 837, the Kindergarten Readiness Act of 2014, would create a half
day transitional kindergarten for all 4 year olds. State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Tom Torlakson, a sponsor of the bill, said the new proposal would not take money away
from existing funding for early childhood care and education. On the contrary, he said,
expanding transitional kindergarten would allow existing state programs to concentrate on
serving children younger than 4.
Early Edge California, co-sponsor of the transitional kindergarten expansion for 4-year olds,
says it is also advocating for a companion piece affecting 0-3 year olds. To be called "Smart
Start," the program would create an innovative, comprehensive and high-quality program for
children younger birth to 3 years olds. Services could include full and part day State
Preschool for 3 year olds and full and part day infant and toddler care.
18
Service Delivery Locations
19
Families in the Service Area
A high percentage of children enrolled in MCS Head Start are four-year olds and remain in
Head Start for one year. Due to changes to the kindergarten age requirement, more 5 year old
children were served in 2012-13. The percentage of children benefitting from additional
years in Head Start continues to increase slightly. A greater number of children and families
would benefit if more Early Head Start programs for infants and toddlers were available in
the area, thus, providing a seamless transition from Early Head Start to Regional Head Start
for children 0-5 years.
20
More two parent families qualify for Head Start due to the economy which has caused high
unemployment rates. Staff reports that more fathers are home and are dropping off and
picking up their children from the program. In years past, mothers attended monthly parent
meetings and parent conferences, now staff reports meetings with fathers and mothers
together. More fathers/males are volunteering in the classrooms.
21
Languages & Cultures Represented
When looking at the languages spoken in the home for the population that is five years and
older in Modesto, English is the overwhelming language that is spoken. When looking at
program data for children enrolled in the Modesto City Schools’ Head Start program,
Spanish is the language that is spoken in the home. A small percentage of families speak
Laos/Vietnamese, Arabic, Punjabi and Russian. In the previous year, recruitment efforts
included providing recruitment materials in languages other than Spanish and English. This
objective is no longer necessary and/or cost effective since many of the families that speak
“other” languages have someone who is able to provide language support.
22
Program Information Report (PIR) data from the last three complete program years show
that the race of children enrolled in the Head Start program are identified primarily as white.
However, program data on the ethnic make-up of enrolled children shows a clearer picture;
that a high percentage of the children are Hispanic; however, the percentage has decreased
over the last 3 years. The percentage of children of other races, such as Asian Black/African
American and “other” has increased.
Data on the community shows a high percentage of the population is Hispanic. Data from
Modesto City Schools shows that approximately 78% of children enrolled in Head Start are
Hispanic. The program is serving a high proportion of the Hispanics in the community.
23
Education Level of Parents
21252935
35,243 34,893
9705
13694
5625
0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
30000
35000
40000
No schoolingcompleted
No High School High school graduate,GED, or alternative
Some college Associate's degree Bachelor's degree Master's degree
Modesto, CaliforniaEducational Attainment - 2010
Created: 11/04/2011
Source: U.S. Census, 2010 American Community Survey
Data from the US Census American Community Survey 2010 Estimate shows that the
educational attainment of the population in Modesto is divided by those that have less than or
a high school diploma (39%), and those who have some college or a degree (61%).
Data from the last three program years shows that the trend to serve families who do not
have a high school diploma is increasing, with that group slightly surpassing the total of all
other groups, including those with a high school diploma, some college and a college
degree. Parent survey data reflect that many Head Start parents have their GED.
The rise in parents with college degrees may be due to the fact that educated, unemployed
families now qualify for Head Start.
24
Children with Disabilities
According to the California Department of Education, the Modesto City Schools, as the LEA,
served the following number of children, zero to four years of age, with disabilities:
2008-2009 = 283
2009-2010 = 284
2010-2011 = 304
The primary type of disabilities services provided during each of those years was speech and
language. Other disabilities services provided were for mental retardation, orthopedic
impairment, other impairments, and autism. The Head Start program consistently serves well
over 10% of its funded enrollment as children with disabilities.
25
The majority of children served receive speech and language services. The number of
children identified with autism has remained consistent over the last three years.
0 0 00 0 0
64
5860
1 1
4
0 0 11 0 10 0 00
4
1
64 4
0 1 00 0 00 0 0
08-09 09-10 10-11
Nu
mb
er
of
Ch
ild
ren
Program Year
Modesto City SchoolsRegional Head Start Program
Types of Disabilities of Enrolled Children
Health impairment Emotional/behavioral disorder Speech or language impairment
Mental retardation Hearing impairment (including deafness) Orthopedic impairment
Visual impairment (including blindness) Learning disabilities Autism
Traumatic brain injury Non-categorical/developmental delay Multiple disabilities (including deaf-blind)
26
According to the 2010 U.S Census 2010 American Community Survey, over 88,000
Stanislaus County residents are uninsured. Of those, 2,129 are under six years old.
The majority of children in MCS Head Start programs are insured through Medi-Cal or other
affordable insurance programs. There is still a need, however, for more whole family
insurance options for low income families.
21297677
18189
20940
15376
14450
9102
556 87
Stanislaus County, CaliforniaPopulation With No Health Insurance
2010
Under 6 Years
6 to 17 Years
18 to 24 Years
25 to 34 Years
35 to 44 Years
45 to 54 Years
55 to 64 Years
65 to 74 Years
75 Years and Over
Created: 12/01/2011
Source: U.S. Census, 2010 American Community Survey
27
Asthma continues to be the most treated medical issue for enrolled children. Early
identification, intervention, education and follow-up for diabetes in young children have
increased the number in the last three year.
28
Parent surveys reflected that Dental Care Needs are being met; however, low income providers
are needed in the area as parents are having difficulty finding dentists that take Medi-Cal.
Other Needs
In the 2010-11 program year, Modesto City Schools served 576 families. Of those families,
there were 186 families who received either Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
(TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Additionally, 262 received WIC services.
29
Poverty
30
Estimated Number of Eligible Children
The number of eligible children has dropped from a high in 2008 of over 4,500 to under
3,300. This drop is in line with the decrease of general population in the Modesto area.
1,723
2,197
1,568
1,866
2,380
1,699
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
2000 2008 2010
Modesto, CaliforniaEstimated Number of Eligible Children
0-2 Years
3-5 Years
Created: 1/5/2012
Source: Calucation based upon 2000, 2008 U.S. Census and 2010 American Community Survey
Even with the drop in eligible children, wait lists of eligible children still remain high. Modesto
City Schools (MCS) participates in the Centralized Eligibility List (CEL) which is a county-wide
wait list that prioritizes families’ eligibility by income and family size. The numbers below
reflect numbers of eligible children on waitlists in MCS’s Head Start or State funded programs.
The numbers of 0-3 year olds or infants and toddlers on the CEL is high and very few program
opportunities are available in this area. However, the waitlists numbers for eligible 3-4 year olds
may be impacted by transitional kindergarten which may be expanded to include all 4 year olds,
thus, reducing the number of 4 year olds on the wait lists.
Waiting List for Modesto City Schools Child Development Programs
Site Centralized Eligibility List (CEL)
Head Start Income Eligible (3 & 4)
Head Start Over Income (3 & 4)
State Income Eligible (3 & 4)
State Over Income (3 & 4)
Centralized Eligibility List (0 – 3)
Head Start Income Eligible (0-3)
State Income Eligible (0 – 3)
Bret Harte 47 35 12 46 1 12 10 12
Burbank 36 32 4 36 0 14 12 14
El Vista 42 24 18 40 2 6 2 6
Everett 89 58 31 86 3 26 16 26
Fairview 41 22 19 40 1 9 6 9
Franklin 44 28 16 42 2 8 6 8
Garrison 30 21 9 30 0 9 7 9
Johansen 28 14 14 27 1 6 3 6
Kirschen 11 9 2 11 0 4 3 4
Marshall 32 26 6 32 0 9 7 9
Martone 26 18 8 26 0 8 7 8
Muir 47 30 17 45 2 12 9 12
O. Wright 14 11 3 14 0 6 5 6
Pearson 18 16 2 18 0 4 3 4
Robertson Rd 27 22 5 26 1 5 5 5
Shackelford 38 36 2 38 0 8 6 8
Tuolumne 56 43 13 56 0 14 9 14
Wilson 19 15 4 19 0 8 6 8
TOTAL 645 460 185 632 13 168 122 168
31
Strengths and Needs of Families
A significant reduction in mental health referrals is evident in 2010-11. In 2010-11 school
year, Modesto City Schools Child Development Programs entered in to a consultant contract
with Sierra Vista Children and Families Services to provide intensive intervention services
including behavioral support, teacher training, child social skills training, parent training and
counseling services with the Head Start program. The reduction in numbers is evidence that
staff, parents and children benefitted from the services. However, due to budget cuts, the
additional consultant contract will not be affordable. MCS plans to continue the relationship
with Sierra Vista through collaboration and training that is offered by Sierra Vista through
Sierra Vista’s Prop 10 funding.
32
Parent education continues to be the number one request for parent referrals. Due to the loss of
employment, many families are returning to school to increase their knowledge and skills in order
to compete in the job market. The low numbers seeking job training may be the result of the lack of
training opportunities. Due to budget cuts, the Modesto Junior College, the most available option in
years past, has closed many vocational training programs for adults. Interest in health education
has increased. Interest in obesity and nutrition continue to be the most requested topics for parent
meetings.
33
Community Resources
Resources & Collaborations
A number of community resources are available in Modesto and the larger Stanislaus County
area, however, in recent years, due to the downturn in the economy and budget crisis in state
and nation, many programs have shut down or reduced services, thus outpacing the capacity
of the organizations to meet the needs of families in the community. Regardless of this
challenge, Modesto City Schools District, along with the Grantee, Stanislaus County Office
of Education, establishes partnerships in order to try to meet the needs of families.
Partnerships include, but are not limited to, Community Health Centers; Women, Infant,
Children; Sierra Vista; Valley Mountain Regional Center; food banks, and prevention and
intervention information and referrals for child abuse and neglect. While incidence of child
abuse and neglect reporting is low, collaboration with area Child Protective Services
agencies ensure appropriate response. Where partnerships are not in place, the Modesto City
Schools District utilizes the United Way of Stanislaus County’s 211 system and the
Stanislaus County Health Services Agency’s Family Resource Directory. These resources
help staff to identify community services available to meet family’s needs.
To increase the education levels of teachers and to assist parents interested in entering the
field of early care and education, Modesto City Schools District refers teachers and parents to
the Teacher Qualification Program (TQP) and Parent to Teacher (PTP) program sponsored
by the Stanislaus County Office of Education (SCOE). SCOE partners with local colleges
and universities to provide college level classes that lead to a Child Development Associate
Teacher’s Permit for parents and an Associate of Arts or Bachelor of Arts degrees for staff.
Issues:
Loss of Community Resources due to State budget:
With the anticipation of state funding changing, establishing a community partnership with
Community Services Agency (CSA) to provide childcare services for their clients would be a
partnership that benefits CSA and MCS. Encourage Head Start staff and parents to become
active community members by supporting, volunteering or holding positions on local boards
in the community.
Based on parent surveys, Community services needed in priority order:
1. Parent Education
2. Health Education
3. Adult Education
4. Mental Health
5. Emergency Crisis
6. Job Training
7. English Second Language (ESL) Classes
8. Housing
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Results and Improvement Plans from Annual Self-Assessment
During the week of November 4, 2013, the Head Start Grantee from Stanislaus County
Office of Education conducted the program self-assessment. Activities included
site/classroom visits, examining lesson plans, reviewing curriculum implementation, student
file reviews, family file reviews ensuring that comprehensive services are being provided,
analysis of fiscal documentation, evaluating the effectiveness of shared governance (between
the Board of Education and the Parent Policy Committee), and ensuring that all program
components are being effectively implemented.
Results of self-assessment:
A. Three Strengths and Exemplary Practices - The program goes above and beyond the
basic requirements of the Head Start Performance Standards.
1. Mental Health & Disabilities- Families of children with disabilities
are supported with additional resources by attending Modesto City
School SELPA Community Advisory Committee.
2. Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment and Attendance
(ERSEA)- The neediest families were served as evidence of low
over income and a high percentage of children with disabilities
enrolled.
3. Family and Community Partnerships- The “Raising A Reader”
literacy program provides take-home books for all children and
families.
B. Four Findings Requiring Action - The program provided an improvement plan that
included ongoing follow up and timelines.
1. Program Design & Management- To provide individual monthly
reports to the DPPC over the summer months when programs are
closed.
2. Family/Community Engagement- To provide and document frequent
and timely follow up on Family Partnership Agreements and social
services referrals.
3. Safe Environments- To keep all cabinets locked and inaccessible to
children.
4. Education- To provide more supporting evidence of observations to
support the child’s assessment.
C. Three Recommendations for Continuous Improvement – The program may
implement the suggestions for continuous program improvement.
1. Program Design & Management- To provide more detail on monthly
program reports and updates to the DPPC.
2. Safe Environments- To install metal ramps on storage sheds.
3. Education- To provide staff training on individualization and the
Creative Curriculum.
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Data Analysis
Major findings as indicated by:
1. The Central Valley has been hit very hard due to the economy. Modesto has one of the
highest unemployment rates and lowest median incomes of many of the valley
communities. Due to the real estate and construction industry down turn, many families
have faced foreclosure and find themselves seeking community services. In addition, the
number of homeless families continues to rise.
2. Due to the economy, many local social service agencies have struggled or ceased to
exist. When surveyed, families expressed concerns that waitlists and waiting periods for
services are very long.
3. The increased need for infant and toddler services and programs was impacted by
the closure of Modesto Junior College child development programs. A very large
number of infants and toddlers live in the Modesto City Schools District area and
very few infant and toddler programs are available. Early Head Start expansion
would provide services to the neediest and youngest group of children that now sit
on the county-wide waitlist (CEL). In addition to meeting the many needs of this
age group, Early Head Start would provide a seamless transition to regional Head
Start, thus serving families with children 0-5 years of age.
4. The number of two-parent families qualifying for Head Start has increased significantly
providing more opportunities for father/male involvement. Fathers/males are
volunteering in the classrooms, attending parent meetings and parent conferences.
5. When surveyed, many unemployed families are seeking educational opportunities to
compete in the job market. Due to the economy, social service agencies that provide
support to the unemployed have fewer services. Modesto Junior College closed many of
their educational programs that provided re-training for the unemployed. In addition,
more educated parents now qualify for Head Start services.
6. When surveyed, families expressed the need for low income dental and health providers.
Head Start staff reports transportation to dental/health providers is the number one
reason families do not follow up on referrals.
7. Many families are experiencing high levels of stress in their lives. However, due to a
variety of reasons, parental drug abuse, domestic violence and depression are not
reported. Head Start staff reports that the impact of these factors affects parents’ and
children’s outcomes significantly.
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Conclusion Based on Data Analysis
Based on the analysis of data collected through the Community Assessment process, the
following trends have the potential to impact services to MCS eligible children and families:
Trend Projection Potential Effect on Program
1. Modesto has one of the highest
unemployment rates in the valley
communities resulting in high
housing foreclosures
This trend will
continue until the
real estate and
construction
industries recover
Provide training to staff in identification
and support for homeless children and
families enrolled in programs
2. Due to economy, social service
agencies struggle or cease to exist This trend will
continue MCS will develop MOU’s with agencies
to meet needs of children and families
MCS will increase participation on
agency’s advisories
3. Very few infant and toddler
programs exist to serve the large
numbers of infants and toddlers in
the area
This trend will
continue. In
addition,
Transitional
Kindergarten will
impact waitlists
for 4 year olds.
Develop collaborations between Early Head
Start, State funded and community programs More 3 year olds will be enrolled in the
programs Provide staff training and support for
working with 3 year olds
4. The number of two parent families
that qualify for Head Start has
increased significantly.
This trend will
continue Increased opportunities for male/father
involvement Provide staff training and support on topics
related to parent engagement
5. Many unemployed families are
seeking educational opportunities
to compete in job market. Higher
educated families qualify for Head
Start
This trend will
continue Provide staff training and support for
educational referrals MCS will provide families with information
on community agencies that provide
educational opportunities MCS will support Grantee’s efforts to find
new educational resources
6. Decrease in numbers of local dental
and health providers serving low
income families
This trend will
continue MCS will support Grantee’s efforts to find
new providers MCS will research additional resources to
overcome transportation barriers keeping
families from services
7. Increase in parental drug abuse,
domestic violence and depression Due to many
factors, this trend
will continue
Provide staff training and support in
identifying children and families in need of
mental health services