Kimberly Baumgardner

This Five Year Renewal Plan for the Education Service Center, Region 20 Head Start Program outlines strategic directions based on comprehensive data collection and analysis to effectively meet community needs. Key strengths identified include robust services in disabilities, education, mental health support, strong parent engagement, and effective school district partnerships. Critical areas for improvement focus on enhancing teacher CLASS scores, addressing child health concerns (specifically overweight/obesity rates, physical and dental exam completion, and lead screening), and increasing enrollment to meet targets. Strategic recommendations include continuing established school district partnerships, prioritizing professional development and coaching, implementing Conscious Discipline, expanding healthy eating information for parents, and improving recruitment strategies.

The Board of Trustees meeting included discussions and information on the ESC-20 annual evaluation, featuring student performance data from across the region. There was also a segment for public comment, but no requests were made.

The Board of Trustees convened for a meeting covering several key items. The agenda included amendments to the 2024-2025 Official Budget, additions to the Special Revenue Fund, and commitment of fund balance. The board also approved the 2024-2025 Final Amended Official Budget and the 2025-2026 Proposed Official Budget. Further discussions led to approvals for contracts over $25,000, proposals, interlocal agreements, and the extension of the Depository Contract. The board approved the Salary Schedule for 2025-2026 and the Workers' Compensation Interlocal Participation Agreement 2025-2026. Additionally, the appointment of new professional staff was confirmed, and the board convened in an executive session for the Executive Director Evaluation and Compensation.

The Board of Trustees convened to discuss several key items, including a program highlight on High Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM). The board addressed the reorganization of the Board of Directors for 2025-2026, amendments to the 2024-2025 Official Budget, and additions to the Special Revenue Fund. They also reviewed and approved contracts over $25,000, Interlocal Agreements, and the appointment of new professional staff. Further discussions included proposals, a salary increase for 2025-2026, supplemental compensation for professionals, and the Center's contribution to TRS-ActiveCare Health Care for 2025-2026. The board also reviewed Center Policy Updates and discussed administrative information, Head Start Policy Council reports, personnel matters, expenditures, investment reports, accounts receivable, and Center Products & Services Fees.

The quality objectives for ESC-20 focus on making a positive impact on education by improving student performance, increasing efficiency, and meeting accountability standards. It aims to ensure customer satisfaction by meeting or exceeding customer requirements with cost-effective products and services, supported by a highly-qualified workforce. Additionally, it focuses on employee satisfaction by promoting a professional work environment and operational excellence through fiscal responsibility and market awareness.