Board Resolution Supports AmeriCorps and Its Ongoing Impact Through SDCOE Programs

The San Diego County Board of Education Supports AmeriCorps and Its Ongoing Impact Through SDCOE Programs. Resolution No. 2025-12 reads:

WHEREAS, the federal Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) ordered the termination of
$400 million in grants distributed nationally by AmeriCorps, which included the abrupt cancellation
of most AmeriCorps programs in California, including the Promoting Achievement and Student
Success (PASS) AmeriCorps Program run by the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE);
and

WHEREAS, this federal action resulted in 35 SDCOE PASS AmeriCorps Members losing not only
their AmeriCorps positions and living allowances but also causing the proration of their education
awards and other promised benefits, as well as the loss of the opportunity to serve their country
through national service; and

WHEREAS, since 2010, SDCOE staff have proudly partnered with AmeriCorps to administer the
PASS AmeriCorps Program, which engages individuals in service to address critical needs in our
schools and communities; and

WHEREAS, over the past 15 years, SDCOE’s PASS AmeriCorps Program has deployed 389
dedicated citizens serving as AmeriCorps Members who have made meaningful contributions to
children, families, schools, districts, and communities in San Diego County school districts; and

WHEREAS, the PASS AmeriCorps Program has provided services in eight San Diego County school
districts and three charter schools, supporting a total of 57 different school sites over the past 15
years; and

WHEREAS, the PASS AmeriCorps Program members mentored and provided academic support
directly to over 1,000 students each school year, cultivating long-term, trusting relationships that
foster social and academic development, enhance positive school climate, and boost student
engagement; and

WHEREAS, students enrolled in the PASS AmeriCorps Program have demonstrated significant
improvement in academics, attendance, and behavior each school year; and

WHEREAS, the PASS AmeriCorps Program Members engaged thousands of students each school
year through school-wide activities, contributing to a positive school climate; and

WHEREAS, AmeriCorps alumni from this program continue to make valuable contributions to their
communities, with 44% of respondents to a recent alumni survey reporting that they are currently
working in education, 15% in health or medicine, 14% in social work, and 8% in nonprofit
organizations since completing their service; and

WHEREAS, 97% of alumni reported that their experience with PASS AmeriCorps had a positive
impact on their post-service experience, and 96% of Members indicated in their Post-Service
Survey that service with PASS AmeriCorps helped clarify their career goals, with a majority stating
that it encouraged them to join the field of education or another service profession; and

WHEREAS, AmeriCorps service through SDCOE has not only enriched the lives of those served but
has also empowered the members themselves, equipping them with skills, experience, and civic
motivation to continue contributing to their communities in meaningful ways; and

WHEREAS, through the essential and extraordinary contributions of its members, alumni, and
partner organizations, PASS AmeriCorps has promoted the well-being of our students, families,
and communities.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the San Diego County Office of Education hereby
expresses its strong support for PASS AmeriCorps and other AmeriCorps programs nationwide,
opposes the termination of such programs, urges lawmakers to prioritize these essential services,
and calls for their immediate reinstatement and full funding in future years.