From June 2015-June 2016, the Bright Beginnings Salinas Collaborative Action Team engaged parents in a listening campaign, culminating in a common vision to support parent engagement and advocacy for children. Since then, we have seen a deeper commitment through Mamas de Salinas Abogan, Building Healthy Communities’Padres Unidos, and other grass-root initiatives.
One of the newest efforts is a parent advisory committee for the new Buckhorn Early Learning Center in the Alisal Union School District (AUSD). On December 8, 27 parents, community partners, and AUSD administrators and educators gathered to start building relationships and support the opening of the center. Parents voiced their shared desire for: quality service, a safe space for children, social and emotional support, extended day for working parents, inclusion for all kids, and empowering parents.
Parents of young children in the AUSD are welcome to join next meeting on Tuesday, February 2 at 4:30pm. Learn more about enrollment at the Center, how to prepare your child to be ready for preschool (e.g., signs of separation anxiety), and to meet elected officials. Details will be posted here and on AUSD and Bright Beginnings social media. The Buckhorn Early Learning Center is expected to open for the 2021-22 school year. To learn more about this new center, please click here.