News Release

August 1, 2006

Free State Preschool Program services and meals in 15th year at County Education Office

Children, three to five years of age, whose parents are income eligible in Lompoc, Santa Ynez, and Los Alamos, can receive free State Preschool Program services and meals through a program beginning its 15th year. The program is operated by the Child Development Programs division of the Santa Barbara County Education Office, William J. Cirone, Superintendent.

Children enrolled in State Preschool Programs at Clarence Ruth, Crestview, La Honda, and Arthur Hapgood schools in Lompoc; Olga Reed School in Los Alamos; and College School in Santa Ynez, receive free school readiness services three hours per day and a daily nutritious snack.

In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy, all children in attendance will be offered school readiness services and snacks at no charge, with no physical segregation of, or other discrimination against, any child because of race, color, national origin, sex, age, gender, religion, disability, or political beliefs.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write to:  USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC  20250-9410, or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD).  USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Further information is available from the Santa Barbara County Education Office, Child Development Programs, at 964-4711, ext. 4431.

California Department of Education School and District Operations Branch

Nutrition Services Division Child and Adult Care Food Programs