Fall Into Learning: Celebrating Our Students and Partnerships
As we embrace another fall season, I am pleased to highlight positive stories and initiatives happening for students in Solano County. From classroom visits and school gardens to dress and tuxedo fittings for our red-carpet premiere, along with professional learning for educators, this issue is filled with highlights from SCOE’s back-to-school season.
This issue also features the 2023-24 Annual Report, offering an overview of key aspects of Solano County public schools. The report provides information on our governance structure, budgets, and student demographics. The data reminds us that Solano County is one of the most diverse counties in the state, and this diversity is not just a statistic. Our diversity enriches our community and fosters a vibrant learning environment where every student's background and culture should be valued and celebrated.
I am in awe of the incredible work happening in our local schools. The remarkable efforts of educators and parents/guardians underscore the critical importance of high-quality instruction together with meaningful family engagement. When we build relationships, trust, understanding and authentic partnerships with families, the sky is the limit for our students. Together, educators and families can amplify learning and enhance educational experiences for all students.
I am also particularly grateful for our partnerships with organizations like Travis Credit Union, North Bay Regional Center and the Department of Rehabilitation. These along with many other organizations across Solano County help us ensure that our students experience multiple enriching opportunities throughout their academic journey.
Together as a community, we can inspire students to learn, grow and thrive.
Warmly,
Lisette Estrella-Henderson
Solano County Superintendent of Schools
Nature's Classroom: Solano RCD
Watershed Explorer Program for Students
The 3rd Grade Watershed Explorer Program, hosted by the Solano Resource Conservation District (RCD), is a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about our local watersheds. Through hands-on activities, games, and field trips, students learn the importance of water conservation, ecosystem health, and the interconnectedness of wildlife and human communities. By fostering a sense of stewardship for natural resources, the Watershed Explorer Program inspires the next generation to become informed and responsible caretakers of their local landscapes. Solano County Office of Education (SCOE) provides funding for some of the transportation costs for this important program.
Financial Literacy Program for Teens
Travis Credit Union's Generational Wealth program for teens is designed to empower young individuals with the financial knowledge and skills necessary to build a prosperous future. This program offers engaging workshops and interactive lessons on essential topics like budgeting, saving, investing, and credit management. Solano County Office of Education partners with Travis Credit Union to host events throughout the year, providing students with additional opportunities for hands-on learning. The partnership aims to widen the footprint of Travis' program and equip teens with the tools to make informed financial decisions, helping them create and sustain generational wealth.
Gearing Up for Glamour
Our young adults are getting ready for an exciting red carpet film premiere with tuxedo fittings and dress shopping to look their best for their big night! SCOE's red carpet premiere for inclusion film campers is a night to remember and showcases the incredible talents and creativity of camp participants. We want to extend a huge thank you to Men’s Wearhouse and Savers for partnering with us to make this glamorous evening possible. This special event is not just about showcasing films but also about building community around our young people and celebrating their hard work and creativity in style!
Join us November 7, 2024 at the Vacaville Performing Arts Theater for SCOE's Inclusion Film Camp Red Carpet Premiere! Tickets available at VPAT.net.
RED CARPET Film Premiere Celebration:
Stop the Bleed Trainings for Educators
& Community Members
This September, Solano County Office of Education hosted a series of free STOP THE BLEED trainings for educators and community members as part of a national awareness campaign that empowers bystanders to become immediate responders during emergencies. This initiative teaches individuals how to effectively control severe bleeding, significantly increasing survival chances in emergency situations in the community or at home. With the goal of building a more resilient community through education and preparedness, the training was funded by the Bay Area Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI). Each participant received a Stop the Bleed certificate and a free Stop the Bleed emergency kit
Harvesting Life Skills
The garden at the Fairfield Suisun Adult School is a vibrant space that offers students a unique opportunity to engage with nature while enhancing their educational experience. School-based gardens provide numerous benefits, including promoting healthy eating habits, encouraging teamwork, and fostering a sense of responsibility as students care for the plants. They also serve as a hands-on learning environment where students can explore topics like biology, ecology, and nutrition. By cultivating their own food, students gain valuable life skills and a deeper appreciation for being outside, making the garden an essential part of their educational journey.
2025 Solano County Science & Engineering Fair
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Registration is open for the 2024 Solano County Science and Engineering Fair. Students in grades 3 through 12 may enter. Help a student join this fun event and foster inquiry, problem-solving skills, and an interest in STEM fields!
McCormack Hall, Solano County Fairgrounds 900 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo
Strong Start to Robotics League
In collaboration with Solano Community College, SCOE successfully kicked off the first Solano Robotics League event of the 2024-2025 season. With 10 teams registered, both students and coaches gained invaluable insights and experience from the premiere match. Teams are now hard at work refining their robots to meet challenge requirements and score even higher in November’s competition.
Participating in robotics competitions offers students numerous benefits, including the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. These events also foster creativity and innovation as students design and build their robots. Hands-on experience in coding, technology and engineering allows students to explore potential career fields as well. Best of luck to all the teams this season!
Aiding Student Expression
There was an amazing turnout at SCOE's October staff training. Our classified staff had an opportunity to dive into Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies for our students. AAC tools include everything from picture boards and speech-generating devices to apps that help facilitate communication, allowing students to express themselves more effectively. These tools are incredibly beneficial as they empower students with limited verbal skills to communicate their needs, thoughts, and emotions, enhancing their overall learning experience and social interactions. It was great to see everyone so enthusiastic about enhancing communication methods for students!
Saturday, December 14, 2024
10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
American Canyon High School
SaulPaul
Empowering Early Learning Educators
Solano County Office of Education hosted an energetic and inspiring 2024 Quality Counts Solano Early Childhood Education Conference at Solano Community College this September. More than 120 early childhood educators from across the region gathered for a day of wellness, keynote speakers, informative breakout sessions, and a resource-packed vendor fair, all aimed at promoting growth and connection. SCOE extends a special thank you to our wonderful sponsors, Schools First Federal Credit Union, Travis Credit Union, and Grand Canyon University, for making this annual event possible.
2023-24 Annual Report
SCOE At-A-Glance
SCOE provides leadership, support, and oversight to public schools in Solano County, supporting high-quality education for all students. SCOE works closely with school districts, charter schools, and educational organizations to enhance student success through a range of programs and services.
Student Support Programs
Implementing initiatives and programs for early childhood education, student wellness & mental health, foster youth and youth experiencing housing instability, college and career readiness and more.
Professional Learning
Providing training, coaching, and resources to educators and administrators to improve teaching practices, family/community engagement, and student outcomes.
Specialized Services
Offering alternative education programs, including court and community schools, adult & workforce development programs and special education services for students with extensive support needs.
Educational Partnerships
Collaborating with local agencies, businesses, and community organizations to provide enhanced opportunities, wraparound services and career exploration for students.
Fiscal and Administrative Oversight
Supporting local school districts with credentialing, state and federal regulations compliance, technical assistance for educational initiatives, and providing budget oversight.
Student Enrichment Programs
Offering expanded student enrichment programs such as Academic Decathlon; GIRL Leadership Camps; science technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) fairs; Spelling Bee; arts initiatives, and youth leadership opportunities, designed to further foster academic and personal growth.
GRANTS & PRIORITY AREAS
Grant funding helps expand educational opportunities, providing schools, educators, and students with services, supports and resources that might otherwise be out of reach. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, SCOE secured $15.6 million in grants, donations, and service contracts that enhanced educational environments, experiences and outcomes. The following is a summary of how this funding is aligned with SCOE's priority areas.
$ 8,655 in Grants, Donations & Service Contracts Working for Solano Students $15,604,597
$1,653,081
2023-24 School District Budgets
Budgeted Expenditures in $ (general
The budgets of County Offices of Education (COE) and school districts are essential for ensuring that our educational systems operate smoothly and effectively. They allocate funding for resources, programs, and initiatives that directly impact student learning and success. By strategically managing these budgets, we can prioritize educational quality, support teachers, and create enriching environments for students. Ultimately, well-planned budgets are crucial for fostering a thriving educational community that meets the needs of all students.
2023-24 Solano Public Schools Data
Student Ethnicity
Students in Solano County represent a vibrant mix of backgrounds and cultures, and each student brings their unique story. Celebrating
Solano County Student Data
Student Enrollment
Indian, 0.3%
4.3%
8.0% Hispanic or Latino, 44.1%
Pacific Islander, 1.0%
White, 20.3%
Two or More Races, 9.4%
Not Reported, 0.8%
Graduation rate data for 2023-2024 not yet released. African American, 12.3%
* California Department of Education Census Day Enrollment Data 2023-24. Census Day Enrollment Data - Accessing Educational Data (CA Dept of Education).
Solano
SOLANO COUNTY STUDENTS
California's Public Education Has Three Levels
In California, the public education system is structured across three levels: state, county, and local. Each level plays a distinct role in governance and support for education.
The California Department of Education (CDE) and the State Board of Education set the policies, regulations, and funding structures that govern education statewide. The legislature creates laws that local educational agencies (LEAs) must follow, including the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), which emphasizes equity and local control.
Each of California's 58 counties has a County Office of Education (COE), which serves as a regional support system for local school districts. COEs vary widely, but most have key roles such as:
Oversight and Compliance: Ensuring districts meet state laws and regulations, review audit findings, and oversee basic learning conditions.
Support Services: COEs provide a variety of services to districts, such as professional learning for educators, data management, fiscal guidance, and assistance with the Local Control and Accountability Plans (LCAP).
Alternative Education: Many COEs operate alternative programs for students, including those in juvenile court schools and students with special needs.
State County Local
Local educational agencies (LEAs) are the primary entities responsible for the day-to-day education of students. Each district operates independently, governed by an elected school board that makes decisions regarding budget, policies, curriculum, and hiring.
County Offices of Education serve as vital intermediaries, providing resources and support that enhance the operational capacity of local districts while ensuring adherence to state standards and regulations.
Solano County Office of Education Governance
The County Superintendent of Schools and the County Board of Education are elected officials who have separate duties and responsibilities. County Superintendents of Schools are established pursuant to the California Constitution and are considered county officers (similar to a sheriff, district attorney, or clerk).
The County Superintendent is elected by voters of Solano County. The Superintendent serves as a liaison between local school districts and the state and the ex-officio secretary to the County Board. The Superintendent also serves as the chief executive officer of the Solano County Office of Education.
The Solano County Board of Education is comprised of elected representatives from seven trustee areas. The Solano County Board of Education serves as the governance body for the Juvenile Court and Community School System and may authorize charter schools. The Board also serves as an appellate body for expulsion, inter-district attendance, and charter school appeals.
Solano County Superintendent of Schools Lisette Estrella-Henderson
Board President Ginger Dunne
Area 6
1
Elease Cheek Trustee Area 5
Peggy A. Cohen-Thompson Trustee Area 7
Michelle Coleman Vice President Trustee Area
Amy Sharp Trustee Area 2
Dana Dean Trustee Area 3
Teresa Lavell Trustee Area 4
Trustee
olano Career Technical Education S
Career Technical Education Pathways in Solano County High Schools
A robust public education system and a well-prepared workforce are essential to the social and economic health of Solano County. Our high schools provide students with diverse opportunities for career exploration and skill development. Solano’s K-12 career technical education (CTE) pathway programs are designed to be engaging, relevant, and aligned with industry standards. They offer certifications and courses that equip students with valuable and practical job skills. Solano County’s school districts offer Solano students a wide range of career technical education (CTE) pathways.
CTE Pathways
Agricultural Mechanics
Agricultural Science
Animal Care
Animation
Automotive Technology
Biotech
Building Trades
Business Marketing
Culinary
Digital Media
Education
Emergency Response
Engineering
Floral Design
Hospitality
Kinesiology
Law
Medical Science
Performing Arts
Public Safety
Video Game Design
Video Production
Welding
View the Solano County Career Technical Education (CTE) Directory
