Columbus Development News

Columbus Early Start Program Transition to Franklin County Proposed

The City of Columbus and Franklin County Commissioners are proposing a three-year transition plan to transfer the management of the Columbus Early Start program, the city's preschool program, to the county. This transition aims to integrate the program into a broader regional early learning strategy, ensuring continued access to high-quality early childhood education for families across Franklin County. The proposal involves three ordinances: an intergovernmental agreement for the transition, authorization for contracts with Early Start Columbus providers, and an amendment to allow the county access to the Sea Hive data portal. The transition emphasizes maintaining program stability, provider support, and child welfare throughout the process. Year one will see minimal changes, with the city actively involved alongside the county, while subsequent years will gradually shift more responsibility to the county.