Early Care and Education Facilities Study, Santa Clara County (2023)

BEI prepared a comprehensive early care and education (ECE) facilities study for the Strong Start Program of the Santa Clara County Office of Education. The analysis included an estimate of the current supply of ECE spaces countywide and by city/area compared to the demand for ECE spaces. Several surveys were prepared as part of this effort, including providers and stakeholders in the County. The study considered the impacts of Transitional Kindergarten, and parent preferences for ECE. The study evaluated current best practices to increase the supply of childcare. It evaluated three possible funding mechanisms, including parcel tax, sales tax add-on initiative, and child care development impact fees. An ECE Development Plan was prepared to increase the supply of ECE facilities in the County.