SCOE Spotlight and Annual Report- Fall 2024

SCOE Spotlight

Volume 6

Issue 1

FALL 2024

2023-24 ANNUAL REPORT

NEWS & UPDATES FROM SOL ANO COUNT Y OFFICE OF EDUCATION

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

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

Learn, Grow, Thrive

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

Back-to-school smiles from SCOE classrooms.

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

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.

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

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.

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

Join us November 7, 2024 for our Inclusion Film Camp Red Carpet Premiere!

Vacaville Performing Arts Theater Tickets available VPAT.net.

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

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.

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

RED CARPET

Film Premiere Celebration:

Cardigan Chronicles: Kindness in Every Stitch

Join Us

Help us celebrate neurodiversity and the remarkable achievements of our young filmmakers!

Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 6:00 PM Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre 1010 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville, CA Free tickets are going fast. Reserve your tickets today!

Reserve your tickets.

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

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 to take home.

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

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.

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

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

Hana Suleiman (707) 399-4438 or HSuleiman@solanocoe.net

SCAN TO REGISTER

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

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!

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

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!

SCOE Spotlight

5th Annual Youth Resiliency Summit

Fall 2024

Meet our keynote speakers:

Art. Advocacy. Action.

Javier Sanchez

SaulPaul

Saturday, December 14, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

American Canyon High School

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SCOE Spotlight

Solano County Office of Education

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.

SCOE Spotlight

Fall 2024

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2023-24 Annual Report

SCOE At-A-Glance

ABOUT SCOE

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.

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Solano County Office of Education

GRANTS & PRIORITY AREAS

2023-24 Annual Report

$15.6 Million Working for Students 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.

Equity, Enrichment & Youth Voice

$625,214 Advocacy & Community Partnerships

$1,653,081 High Quality Education

$15,604,597

$4,008,479

in Grants, Donations & Service Contracts Working for Solano

Safety & Wellness

Students

$6,669,660

Job Readiness

$2,648,162 Donations

$ 8,655

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Solano County Office of Education

BUDGETED EXPENDITURES

2023-24 Annual Report

2023-24 School District Budgets School District & SCOE Budgeted Expenditures in $ (general fund expenditures only) Benicia USD

Dixon USD

FairfieldSuisun USD

Travis USD

Vacaville USD

Vallejo City USD

Certificated Staff

26,673,101

16,404,575

136,119,472

37,362,983

61,093,426

60,569,195

Classified Staff

10,391,508

7,851,866

51,859,651

14,398,634

28,613,766

34,075,055

Benefits

16,641,395

11,309,499

75,083,913

19,746,075

45,661,947

48,818,713

Books & Supplies

1,610,176

2,324,777

19,470,430

2,065,411

5,294,694

11,400,730

Service & Other Operating

5,022,214

9,459,655

33,632,556

7,416,229

23,601,691

44,192,239

Capital Outlay

-

100,000

70,000

-

8,333,884

287,618

Other Outgoing

768,700

1,392,044

3,643,503

1,677,390

6,081

(867,115)

$ 82,666,722 $ 172,605,489

$ 198,476,435

$ 61,107,094

$ 48,842,416 $ 319,879,525

Solano COE

Solano Districts & COE

Certificated Staff

13,564,349

351,787,101

Classified Staff

23,700,889

170,891,369

Benefits

18,555,017

235,816,559

Books & Supplies

1,734,194

43,900,412

Service & Other Operating

15,923,066

139,247,650

Capital Outlay

1,770,000

10,561,502

Other Outgoing

(55,248)

6,565,355

$ 75,192,267

$ 958,769,948

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.

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Solano County Office of Education

2023-24 Solano Public Schools Data Student Ethnicity African American, 12.3%

Students in Solano County represent a vibrant mix of backgrounds and cultures, and each student brings their unique story.

Celebrating diversity creates an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.

American Indian, 0.3% Asian, 4.3% Filipino, 8.0% Hispanic or Latino, 44.1% Pacific Islander, 1.0% White, 20.3% Two or More Races, 9.4% Not Reported, 0.8% Percentages are rounded and may equal more than 100% when totalled.

Solano County Student Data Solano Cohort Graduation Rate*

86.6%

English Language Learners

8,505 or 14.2%

Foster Youth

186 or 0.3%

Homeless Youth

1023 or 1.7%

Socioeconomically Disadvantaged

34,334 or 57.2%

Students with Disabilities

8,394 or 14.0%

* California Department of Education Census Day Enrollment Data 2023-24. Census Day Enrollment Data - Accessing Educational Data (CA Dept of Education).

Graduation rate data for 2023-2024 not yet released.

Student Enrollment

59,979 Students

Local Education Agency (LEA)

Enrollment

# of Schools

Benicia Unified School District

4,372

8

Caliber: Change Makers Academy

961

1

Dixon Montessori Charter

452

1

Dixon Unified School District

3,037

6

Elite Public School

680

1

Fairfield Suisun Unified School District

20,413

30

Griffin Technology Academies

982

4

Kairos Public School

669

1

Solano County Office of Education

419

3

Travis Unified School District

5,430

8

Vacaville Unified School District

12,708

17

Vallejo City Unified School District

9,856

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2023-24 Annual Report

SOLANO COUNTY STUDENTS

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Solano County Office of Education

GOVERNANCE

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.

State 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.

County 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.

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.

2023-24 Annual Report

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 Trustee Area 6

Michelle Coleman Vice President Trustee Area 1

Peggy A. Cohen-Thompson Trustee Area 7

Amy Sharp Trustee Area 2

Dana Dean Trustee Area 3

Teresa Lavell Trustee Area 4

Elease Cheek Trustee Area 5

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Solano County Office of Education

S olano

Career Technical Education

2023-24 Annual Report

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

.... Engineering

....

Agricultural Science

.... Floral Design

....

Animal Care

.... Hospitality

....

Animation

.... Kinesiology

.... Automotive Technology ....

Biotech

.... Law .... Medical Science

.... Building Trades

.... Performing Arts

.... Business Marketing

.... Public Safety

.... Culinary

.... Video Game Design

.... Digital Media

.... Video Production

.... Education

.... Welding

.... Emergency Response

View the Solano County Career Technical Education (CTE) Directory

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