Fillmore Unified School District

The California Department of Education has awarded Fillmore Unified School District $2.6 million to fund full-day preschool classes at its four elementary schools and two additional District sites, providing families with a high-quality child development program free of charge.

Fillmore Unified, located 60 miles north of Los Angeles, serves a lower-income student population of approximately 3,500, and today provides only one half-day preschool program at the Sespe District Office.

In addition to adding preschool to the elementary schools, the grant will fund two additional classes at the Sespe location. Classes will be full day, serve approximately 24 students at each location, and will be provided free to students ages 3 – 5.

“Fillmore Unified recognizes the long term educational benefits for students who have completed a high-quality preschool program,” said District Superintendent Dr. Adrian Palazuelos. “The California State Preschool Program funding will enable our district to increase access to preschool for our youngest learners and also continue to forge strong connections with our families,” he said.

Fillmore applied for the state funding through a competitive grant process in November 2015 and was notified of the award on April 1. This will be the first time the District provides full-day programs at all sites.

Preschool is an essential component of a comprehensive program and is much needed in the City of Fillmore, population approximately 13,500. Serving a largely migrant, second-language population presents numerous challenges. To provide a high-quality child development option for free could positively transform entire families, giving students more resources and support and parents more opportunities to work and help their children.

“We are thrilled to offer this opportunity for the families of the Fillmore community,” said District Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Martha Hernandez. “Our focus on early literacy will reap great benefits for our students.”

Fillmore Unified is transforming and elevating the quality of instruction district-wide. Since last school year, it has invested several hundred thousand dollars in curriculum, staff development, materials and training programs to improve student outcomes, parent involvement and campus climate. Preschool was a missing component, until now.

The total award will be funded over two years, with this round ending in June 30, 2017. Funds will be used to prepare classrooms, facilities, hire and train staff and purchase all necessary supplies, equipment and materials. Classes will open in time for the start of the 2016/17 school year. The program will run year round including summer.