Title
Report regarding a resolution authorizing an agreement between the San Mateo County Library and the South San Francisco Public Library to provide staffing for the Big Lift Inspiring Summers 2025 free summer program in South San Francisco and approving Budget Amendment Number 25.047 accepting up to $18,000 in reimbursement funding. (Valerie Sommer, Library Director)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing an agreement between the San Mateo County Library and the South San Francisco Public Library to provide staffing for the Big Lift Inspiring Summers (BLIS) 2025 free summer program in South San Francisco and approve Budget Amendment Number 25.047 accepting up to $18,000 in reimbursement funding.
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BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
The Big Lift Inspiring Summers program, supported by San Mateo County (SMC) Measure K funds, will again operate two summer school sites in South San Francisco: one at Martin Elementary School and another at Los Cerritos Elementary School. This free, five-week, full day program for children entering kindergarten, 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade, includes reading and math instruction led by credentialed teachers and hands-on STEAM activities led by Library staff. This special early learning effort is focused on both improving literacy skills during a time many students experience a decline in their reading level and preventing summer learning loss. To support this important program, the South San Francisco Public Library is providing one Senior Community Program Specialist (SCPS) for the Los Cerritos Elementary School site. The SCPS works with the principal, teachers, and facilitators to implement a cutting-edge curriculum intended to ignite youth to have self-confidence, explore, be creative, problem-solve, and develop a love of learning. Serving as a BLIS Leader, the SCPS directs the work of BLIS learning facilitators and works in partnership with school district leadership to deliver quality educational programming. The work of the SCPS also includes pre-program training on curriculum, program logistics, and coaching. This position actively supports the program in the areas of academics, enrichment activities, family engagement, field trips, and program operational needs.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funds will be used to amend the Library Department’s current fiscal year (FY) 2024-25 Operating Budget. Funds not expended in this fiscal year will be carried over into FY 2025-26. Receipt of these funds does not commit the City to ongoing funding.
RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN
Strengthening of learning programs is an action item in the City’s Strategic Plan under Priority #2: Quality of Life. This funding will allow the Library to encourage and support reading and learning for local elementary school students enrolled in this summer’s Big Lift Inspiring Summers program.
CONCLUSION
Approval of the agreement will enable Library staff to participate in the BLIS program, providing an opportunity for SSF children to maintain academic and social skills during the summer break. It is recommended that the City Council authorize an agreement between the San Mateo County Library and the South San Francisco Public Library and approve Budget Amendment Number 25.047 accepting up to $18,000 in reimbursement funding.