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Orange Coast College Cuts Childcare Services at Children’s Center

Parents express concerns over childcare service cuts at Orange Coast College.

News Summary

Orange Coast College has announced significant cuts to its Harry and Grace Steele Children’s Center, reducing offerings from five classes to two. This change, effective July 1, will drastically lower the center’s capacity from 105 to 48 children, leaving many families concerned about childcare availability. The decision stems from a projected deficit of $630,000, prompting fears among parents and staff about job security and the need for alternative childcare solutions. A board meeting is scheduled for March 10 to discuss the future of the center amidst community outcry for better communication and support.

Orange Coast College has announced significant cuts to its Harry and Grace Steele Children’s Center, which will affect childcare services starting July 1. These reductions will limit the center’s offerings from five classes to just two preschool classes, resulting in the elimination of infant, toddler, and Pre-K classes. Consequently, the center will reduce its capacity from 105 children to only 48, creating immediate challenges for families in need of childcare services.

Parents received an email regarding these cuts on February 21, which has caused considerable distress among those who rely on the center for childcare. The Harry and Grace Steele Children’s Center primarily serves children ages 1 to 5, including those of college students, faculty, staff, and families from the wider community. As a result of the reductions, many parents are anxious about the necessity to either find alternative childcare or, in some cases, even consider quitting their jobs due to the impending changes.

The projected deficit for the center currently stands at $630,000 for the fiscal year, a situation attributed to low enrollment rates and financial mismanagement in previous years. Orange Coast College’s spokesperson remarked that the decision to downsize was a response to ongoing financial deficits and unsustainable operational costs. Although the college board must approve the final decision, the funding strategies previously implemented have included the utilization of general funds and pandemic relief money to address the financial woes of the center.

Even a proposed increase in tuition by 20% would only cover about one-third of the deficit, leaving the center still facing substantial financial shortfalls. Presently, seven employees at the center confront the possibility of layoffs, creating uncertainty regarding their job security. Parents have expressed their willingness to accept tuition increases to ensure that the center remains operational, as there is a long waitlist of over 80 families in need of childcare services.

Some parents and community members have criticized the college for not communicating its financial difficulties sooner. They are demanding collaborative solutions to maintain essential childcare services while addressing budgetary concerns. The center has built a strong reputation for providing quality education, personalized care, and support for each child, which is now at risk due to the impending cuts.

Concerns surrounding the potential loss of quality childcare services, along with employment risks for staff, are echoed by many parents who depend on the center for their educational pursuits and work stability. A forthcoming board meeting scheduled for March 10 will further discuss the center’s future, following a series of protests mobilized by concerned parents in response to the proposed changes.

In light of the impending downsizing, parents and staff are advocating for alternatives that would allow for increased enrollment. They have proposed plans that could enable adjustments in staffing and tuition to keep the center viable. College officials have acknowledged the emotional toll these changes will have on families, who aspire to secure education and employment while raising young children. The college aims to realign its services, focusing on supporting the children of its students and staff, and to fulfill the original intent of the center.