Agenda packet — Rancho Cordova City Council, April 28, 2026 (part 6 of 8)

Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
Yes
How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
3 How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
$590,000
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/30/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
We will be initiating funding immediately on July 1st to support our fall teams, and anticipate fall spending for the winter teams, and then winter spending for the spring teams. The last of the invoices for the coaching stipends will come in at the end of May/1st week of June.

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What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
The biggest challenge will be finding our corporate sponsors. Many youth and school sports teams pull from the same base but we are confident with our connections that we can find those sponsorships.

How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
550 plus athletes
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
550 plus
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Please note that projects or programs that are proposed on property owned or operated by outside agencies or a private party will require coordination with and potentially approvals from outside agencies, organizations, and/or the private party. Include whether you have received a letter of support for the project/program from the property owner. Upload any letters of support with your application. City staff will verify third-party permits have been discussed. In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website:
https://www.cordovarpd.gov/. CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District:
[email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.

Primary street
address of
project/program
2239 Chase Drive
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
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If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.

Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:

Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading)
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
Yes
Is the
project/program
requesting facility
use only or is this a
request to partner
with the school
district?
Partner with school on project/program
Please select all the
school districts which
your project/program
intends to involve:

Folsom Cordova USD
Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District
school facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:

Cordova High School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Yes
Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or
district(s) who are
familiar with your
project/program.

Peter Maroon, Erin Kalusa
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Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Jennifer
Laret
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Rancho Cordova Student Athlete Coalition
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Board Member at Large
Provide contact
phone number:
+
Provide contact
email:

Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
No
What is the name of
this project or
program's primary
contact if not the
person submitting
this application?
Madelaine
Sanderson
What is the email of
the primary contact?
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
No, someone else would sign the contract
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If selected by the
City Council to
receive an award,
what is the name of
the person at your
organization who
would sign the
contract?
Madelaine
Sanderson
What is the title of
this individual?
President
What is the best
phone number where
we could contact the
signatory?
+
What is the best
email address to
contact the
signatory?
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.

Internal Form
Score n/a
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Cordova High School
Athletic Budget Report 2026-27
2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30
Fall
Football $78,323
Girls Flag Football $19,071
Girls Tennis $1,710
Girls Volleyball $11,958
Cross Country $20,868
Girls Golf $2,360
Total $134,290
Winter
Boys Basketball $23,277
Girls Basketball $23,277
Boys Soccer $3,500
Girls Soccer $11,023
Wrestling $33,077
Total $94,154
Spring
Track n Field $30,558
Swimming $5,000
Baseball $21,996
Softball $14,627
Boys Tennis $1,710
Stunt (Cheer) $19,458
Boys Golf $2,360
Boys Volleyball $11,958
Total $107,667
Yearly Totals $336,111
Transportation cost is include in the proposal for each program for a total of:

Fall $ 27,000.00
Winter $ 38,000.00
Spring $ 34,500.00
$ 99,500.00
* these are estimate based upon previous years amounts.

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Financial Proposal
Rancho Cordova Student Athlete Coalition
2026–2027 Fiscal Year
Executive Summary
The Rancho Cordova Student Athlete Coalition (RCSAC) is committed to supporting studentathletes by providing resources, equipment, athletic training opportunities, and community engagement that promote athletic excellence, academic success, and leadership development.

For the 2026–2027 fiscal year, the Coalition seeks financial support to expand participation, increase student access to athletic development opportunities, and strengthen community partnership between the athletic teams and the Rancho Cordova Community.

The proposed annual operating budget for the 2026–2027 year is $361,500.00 Organizational Goals for 2026–2027

1. Support Student-Athlete Development
o Provide training camps, clinics, and mentorship programs.

2. Promote Academic Excellence
o Offer academic support resources and scholarships.

3. Expand Youth Athletic Opportunities
o Increase access to invitationals, tournaments, and camps.

4. Strengthen Community Engagement
o Build partnerships with local schools, businesses, and civic organizations.

Proposed Budget (2026–2027)
Program Expenses
Category Estimated Cost
Coaching Stipends for Assistant Coaches $80,000
Uniforms & Equipment $105,000
Entries for Invitationals & Tournaments $22,000
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Category Estimated Cost
Student Athlete Recognition/Awards $25,000
Advertising/Marketing/Community Outreach $30,000
Transportation $99,500
Total Program Expenses $361,500.00
Funding Strategy
To support the 2026–2027 budget, RCSAC will pursue the following funding sources:

CEIF Grant Request
RCSAC is seeking a CEIF Grant from the City of Rancho Cordova. The Grant monies would be used to cover all items with the exception of the transportation.

Projected Grant Revenue: $265,000
Sponsorships
Local businesses will be invited to become coalition sponsors through tiered sponsorship packages.

Sponsorship Level Contribution
Champion Sponsor $10,000
Gold Sponsor $5,000
Silver Sponsor $2,500
Community Sponsor $1,000
Projected Sponsorship Revenue: $35,000
Fundraising Events
Planned events include:
• Jamborees
• CHS Hosted Invitationals/Tournaments for Various Teams ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Projected Event Revenue: $35,000
Donations
Individual donors and community members will be encouraged to contribute through online campaigns and community outreach.

Projected Donation Revenue: $25,000
Expected Outcomes
Through the 2026–2027 funding initiative, the Rancho Cordova Student Athlete Coalition expects to:
• Serve 500+ student athletes
• Provide support for Fundraising Events
• Create greater connectivity between the Rancho Cordova community and the Cordova High Athletic Programs
Community Impact
The Rancho Cordova Student Athlete Coalition plays a critical role in strengthening the local athletic community. By investing in student-athletes, the Coalition helps build confidence, leadership, and academic success that extends far beyond sports.

This proposal represents an opportunity for community partners to help shape the next generation of leaders while promoting healthy lifestyles and positive youth development.

Conclusion
The Rancho Cordova Student Athlete Coalition respectfully requests financial support to implement its 2026–2027 program initiatives. Through collaboration with community leaders, schools, businesses, and supporters, we can ensure that student-athletes in Rancho Cordova have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed.

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Together, we can build a stronger future for our student-athletes and our community.

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Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.

Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.

No: Not a First Time Applicant
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1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.

Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

Rancho Cordova Track Club Throwing Cage Safety & Enhancement Project
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Funding is requested to purchase and install a new Lance Deal–designed throwing cage system, which addresses current operational hazards and significantly enhances safety, durability, and usability for athletes and the community.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
The Rancho Cordova Track Club seeks funding to replace the existing hammer/discus throwing cage structure with a modern, safer, and more durable cage design. The current cage — originally sourced from Sacramento State — has reached the end of its useful life. The nylon netting is severely sun-damaged and repeatedly torn from implement impacts and structural contact. Continuous patching has become both labor-intensive and insufficient to guarantee long-term safety.

Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
The Rancho Cordova Track Club (often called RCTC) is a youth running and track-and-field program based in Rancho Cordova, California. It focuses on helping young athletes develop skills, fitness, and confidence through track, cross country, and running events.

Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Safety & Liability
The existing structure has multiple safety vulnerabilities:

Netting is frayed and patched, increasing risk of implements passing through weakened areas.

Exposed support posts and bolts are frequently struck by hammers, creating rebound hazards.

Gate nets cannot be fully lowered for wind protection in the current design, exposing the system to increased wind damage and risk.

Incremental repair is expensive and does not eliminate hazards inherent in the outdated design. Replacing the system with a modern engineered solution will significantly reduce safety risks and liability exposure moving forward.

Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

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Quote.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.

Total project/program
cost*
69495
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
69495
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
Yes
If your
project/program
involves
construction, please
indicate your project
budget?
7500
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
61955
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
61995
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What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
0 Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

Rancho_Cordova_CEIF_Budget_FY2026_2027_FINAL_v2.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.

Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.

We have potential cash support of $35,000.
$15,000 previous budgeted for concrete work
$20,000 RCAA Youth Sports Facility Upgrade Fees
Penitential sale of existing cage
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

We are anticipating a 20 year life on this item. RCTC would have the funds to maintain any maintenance costs on this item.

Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

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How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
3 How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
$240,000
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
2/1/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
We would hope to order this in July, have the cage manufactured and installed by February 1st.

What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
The biggest challenge to this project is the funding. We were hoping to fundraise more but due to the football field replacement at Cordova High this season, we are unable to host as many meets as we would need to cover the costs. The field replacement is anticipated to take most of the summer hindering our ability to host the additional 2 meets we would have hosted.

How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
150
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How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
125
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

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Primary street
address of
project/program
2239 Chase Drive
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.

Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:

Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading)
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
Yes
Is the
project/program
requesting facility
use only or is this a
request to partner
with the school
district?
Facility Use Only. Visit the school district website for facility use information.

Please select all the
school districts which
your project/program
intends to involve:

Folsom Cordova USD
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Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District
school facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:

Craig Rouse
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Jennifer
Laret
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Rancho Cordova Track Club
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Treasurer
Provide contact
phone number:
+
Provide contact
email:

Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
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If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
Yes, I would be the one to sign the contract
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.

Internal Form
Score n/a
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Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF)
Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Project Budget
Project Name: Rancho Cordova Throwing Cage Safety & Enhancement Project EXPENSES Amount
Hammer Cage with 10M Gates & All Necessary Hardware $61,995 Installation $7,500
Ground Modifications (Volunteer Labor – In-Kind) Value TBD Total Project Cost (Cash) $69,495
REVENUE / LEVERAGE Amount
Concrete Work Savings (Previously Budgeted) $15,000
RCAA Youth Sports Facility Upgrade Fees (2026 & 2027 Allocations) $20,000 RCTC Direct Contribution (Cash) Amount TBD
Volunteer Ground Modification Labor (In-Kind) Value TBD Potential Sale of Existing Cage Value TBD
Total Potential Cash Support $35,000
Remaining CEIF Funding Request (based on identified support): $34,495. Additional RCTC contributions, in-kind labor, and resale revenue will further reduce the net funding request if realized.

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No: Not a First Time Applicant
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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

River View STEM, Afterschool Enrichment Program
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Falkon Academy and Skyhawks Sports Sacramento (Single Entity) propose a comprehensive After-School Enrichment Program for River View STEM School serving, PreK–Grade 6. The program integrates robotics, drone engineering, academic support, strategic thinking, and multi-sport development, aligning with Expanded Learning goals to promote engagement, confidence, collaboration, and whole-child growth.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Project Description
The River View STEM After-School Enrichment Program is a structured, year-long expanded learning initiative operating Monday through Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., August through May, with select components optionally delivered during recess periods. Designed to serve approximately 25 students daily in two cohorts of up to 15 students, the program provides balanced academic support, STEM enrichment, strategic thinking development, and structured physical activity in a safe and engaging environment.

The program is operated by Falkon Academy and Skyhawks Sports Sacramento, programs of Greater Sacramento Investments LLC. The proposed enrichment model has been reviewed with Principal Lari Powell and aligns with River View’s academic priorities and Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P) goals.

Program Structure and Daily Flow
Each day begins with a structured transition and attendance check-in to ensure safety and readiness. The two-hour enrichment block is divided into focused segments that balance academic reinforcement with hands-on learning and physical activity.

Homework Support sessions are integrated twice weekly, providing guided assistance with assignments, organization, and study skills. This ensures participation enhances classroom learning rather than competing with it.

Students build responsibility, confidence, and stronger homework completion habits.

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Operating five days per week provides consistency, routine, and diverse learning opportunities.

Academic Enrichment and Strategic Thinking
Academic growth remains central to program design.

Homework Support (Twice Weekly): Structured academic
assistance in a supervised, focused setting.

Kangaroo Math Club: Multi-step problem-solving activities that develop reasoning, perseverance, and mathematical confidence.

Board Game Strategy League (Fridays): Structured league-style competitions using games such as Blokus (spatial reasoning), Dixit (creative thinking), Qwirkle or Rummikub (patterns and math), Battleship (logic and coordinates), and Sushi Go! (quick strategy and probability).

These components strengthen analytical thinking, communication skills, and classroom readiness in an engaging and low-pressure format.

STEM and Innovation Programming
Hands-on STEM modules encourage curiosity, collaboration, and real-world problem solving.

Drone Engineering Lab (Grades 3–6): Students explore
aerodynamics, basic coding, navigation challenges, and mathintegrated flight tasks. Real-world applications such as agriculture and environmental monitoring are discussed.

Pop-Up Book Mechanical Engineering (Grades 1–5): Students design interactive paper mechanisms using levers, sliders, and linkages, combining storytelling with engineering principles.

LEGO Imagineering & Innovation Lab (PreK–5): Each session begins with a real-world theme such as sustainability or inclusive design. Students brainstorm solutions, prototype with LEGO bricks, test structural integrity, and present their innovations while applying engineering concepts such as balance and stability.

VEX GO Robotics (Grades 1–3): Students build and program robots using the VEX Robotics GO system, learning gears, motion, sensors, and introductory coding through collaborative team challenges.

Special STEM Days: 3D Printing workshops, Physics Experiment Days, and Quiz Bowl competitions.

Sports: Physical Development and Social-Emotional Learning The physical enrichment component includes rotating sports modules such as soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and seasonal offerings including track & field and cheer. Sessions emphasize skill progression, teamwork, coordination, and sportsmanship.

Short reflective discussions and integrated worksheets reinforce vocabulary, math concepts such as measurement and scoring, and socialITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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emotional skills including leadership, inclusion, and respect. This integrated model ensures athletics complement academic enrichment and whole-child development.

Program Flexibility & School-Day Integration
In coordination with school leadership, select components such as the Board Game Strategy League and structured sports skill sessions may also be implemented during recess or designated activity periods. This flexible model supports positive student engagement during unstructured times while reinforcing teamwork, inclusion, and campus culture beyond traditional after-school hours.

Program Impact and Sustainability
Operating daily from August through May provides consistency and reliable support for families. The balanced combination of academics, STEM innovation, strategic thinking, and physical activity promotes increased student engagement, improved confidence, collaboration skills, and longterm interest in learning.

Maintaining a 1:15 staff-to-student ratio ensures safety, instructional quality, and mentorship. This initiative is not simply after-school supervision; it is a structured enrichment ecosystem designed to build curiosity, resilience, academic growth, and foundational skills for future success.

Websites:
https://www.falkonacademy.com
https://skyhawks.com/sacramento-east-ca/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/falkonacademy
https://www.facebook.com/SkyhawksSAC/
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Ashwin Thirunahari serves as Director of Falkon Academy and Skyhawks Sports Sacramento. Since 2021, he has overseen youth enrichment and sports programs across the Sacramento region in partnership with local schools and park districts including including at Rancho Cordova Youth Club and W.E. Mitchell Middle School. He holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering.

Additional coaches will be hired based on enrollment and will maintain a 1:15 student-to-coach ratio. All staff will complete Live Scan fingerprinting, background checks, Mandated Reporter training, First Aid/CPR certification, and youth development training to ensure safety and highquality instruction.

Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Project Goals:

1. Increase Student Engagement in Expanded Learning
The primary goal is to provide structured, meaningful after-school enrichment that integrates STEM innovation, academic reinforcement, and physical development.

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Metrics for Success:
85% or higher average attendance
Positive student engagement survey results

2. Strengthen Academic Reinforcement Through Integrated Learning The program integrates academic elements across both STEM and sports modules. Structured Homework Support sessions assist with assignment completion, organization skills, and study habits.

Additionally, sports sessions incorporate short, age-appropriate workbooks and reflection sheets that reinforce vocabulary, basic math concepts (scoring, measurement, counting), and social-emotional learning principles.

Metrics for Success:
80% of students demonstrate improved homework completion habits Completion of sports reflection worksheets in each seasonal module

3. Expand Access to STEM and Innovation Opportunities
Provide equitable access to robotics, drone engineering, mechanical design, and LEGO-based real-world problem-solving experiences that may not be available during the regular school day.

Metrics for Success:

Completion of at least one major STEM project per student per term Pre/post surveys indicating increased interest in STEM
Participation across multiple grade levels

4. Promote Social-Emotional Growth and Teamwork
Develop leadership, collaboration, communication, and resilience through team-based STEM projects, strategic thinking activities, and structured sports participation.

Sports workbook activities - reinforce lessons on respect, sportsmanship, and leadership, math, logic and problem solving through sports.

Metrics for Success:

Student self-assessments reflecting growth in teamwork and confidence
Positive behavioral feedback during program hours

5. Maintain High-Quality, Safe Programming
Operate under a 1:15 staff-to-student ratio with trained, fingerprinted instructors to ensure safety and instructional quality.

Metrics for Success:
100% compliance with safety and background requirements Parent satisfaction surveys
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Strong retention between Fall and Spring sessions
Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

RANCHO_Proposal_RiverView_Enrichment_26_27_and_Menu.pdf 2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.

Total project/program
cost*
41441.26
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
41441.26
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
25625
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
6400
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
5000
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What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
4416.26
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

RANCHO_Proposal_RiverView_Enrichment_26_27_Budget_Only.pdf Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
No, not seeking any other funding support.

Please explain why
you are not seeking
any other funding
support for your
project/program.

This proposal is being submitted as a direct partnership opportunity with River View STEM School to ensure alignment with campus priorities, scheduling, and student needs. At this time, we are not pursuing additional funding sources to avoid duplicating requests or creating overlapping reporting requirements that may complicate implementation.

If partial funding is awarded, the program’s modular structure allows for prioritization of key components, and supplemental support—such as optional parent contributions or negotiated facility arrangements—may be explored in coordination with school leadership. Our goal is to maintain flexibility while ensuring the program remains sustainable and aligned with school expectations.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

NONE
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

No
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
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Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
8/17/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
5/15/2026
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
Program Timeline/Schedule:

The following schedule outlines the full school-year enrichment program (August through May). Based on approved funding, programming will be delivered five days per week, with most enrichment activities conducted after school (3:30–5:30 p.m.). Select components, such as sports skill sessions and Board Game Strategy League, may be be implemented during recess or designated activity periods in coordination with school administration.

STEM Enrichment Programs
The STEM Enrichment Program provides hands-on innovation, academic reinforcement, and strategic thinking opportunities designed to build curiosity, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving skills.

Drone Engineering Lab (Grades 3–6)
Tuesday | 1.5 hours, Season: August–December
Pop-Up Book Engineering (Grades 3–6)
Wednesday | 1.5 hours, Season: August–December
LEGO Imagination World (PreK–5)
Wednesday | 1.5 hours, Season: January–May
VEX GO Robotics (Grades 1–3)
Tuesday | 1.5 hours, Season: January–May
Homework Help Block (PreK–6) (Highly valued by principal) ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Tuesday & Thursday | 1 hour, Season: September–May
Kangaroo Math Club (Grades 1–5)
Friday | 1 hour, Season: September–May
Board Game Strategy League (Grades 1–5) (High interest for Recess) Friday | 1 hour, Season: September–May
Seasonal STEM Rotations
3D Printing, Quiz Bowl, Art & Design Weeks, , Introduced/rotated periodically to maintain engagement and introduce diverse skills Sports Enrichment Programs
The Sports Enrichment Program promotes physical development, teamwork, character building, and social-emotional learning while integrating short academic reflection workbooks into each session.

Soccer Skills Program (PreK–5)
Tuesday | 45 minutes, Season: September–December
Basketball Skills Program (PreK–5)
Tuesday | 45 minutes, Season: September–December
Baseball Skills Program (PreK–5)
Thursday | 45 minutes, Season: January–May
Volleyball Skills Program (PreK–5)
Thursday | 45 minutes, Season: January–May
Seasonal Sports Rotation
Cheer, Track & Field, Football, Field Hockey, Introduced/rotated periodically to maintain engagement and introduce diverse athletic skills
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
Several potential challenges may arise during implementation. The primary challenge is maintaining consistent enrollment and attendance across the full August–May program year. After-school participation can fluctuate due to competing activities, transportation limitations, or family scheduling conflicts. To address this, we will conduct early outreach, provide clear communication to families, offer flexible program modules, and coordinate closely with school administration to align schedules with campus priorities.

Staffing for a 3:30–5:30 p.m. daily program may also present challenges.

We will maintain a qualified substitute pool and staggered staffing model to ensure consistent 1:15 supervision ratios. All instructors will be prescreened and trained prior to program launch.

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How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
250
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
250
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Primary street
address of
project/program
River View Stem Academy
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
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Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Ashwin
Thirunahari
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Falkon Academy/Skyhawks Sports
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Director, Falkon Academy
Director, Skyhawks Sports
Provide contact
phone number:

Provide contact
email:

Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
Yes, I would be the one to sign the contract
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
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Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.

Internal Form
Score n/a
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CITY OF RANCHO CORDOVA
FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027 GRANT APPLICATION

COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT & INVESTMENT FUND
“Bring STEM Education to the community in need.”
Project Name : River View STEM, Afterschool Enrichment Program Contact: Falkon Academy,
Director, Ashwin Thirunahari
Email: [email protected]
Project Synopsis:

Falkon Academy and Skyhawks Sports Sacramento propose a comprehensive After-School Enrichment Program for River View STEM School serving 30 students, PreK–Grade 6. The program integrates robotics, drone engineering, academic support, strategic thinking, and multi-sport development, aligning with Expanded Learning goals to promote engagement, confidence, collaboration, and whole-child growth.

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Project Description
The River View STEM After-School Enrichment Program is a structured, year-long expanded learning initiative operating Monday through Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., August through May, with select components optionally delivered during recess periods. Designed to serve approximately 25 students daily in two cohorts of up to 15 students, the program provides balanced academic support, STEM enrichment, strategic thinking development, and structured physical activity in a safe and engaging environment.

Students then rotate into grade-appropriate enrichment modules. Small cohort sizes and a 1:15 staff-to-student ratio ensure individualized attention, effective classroom management, and meaningful engagement. Operating five days per week provides consistency, routine, and diverse learning opportunities.

Academic Enrichment and Strategic Thinking
Academic growth remains central to program design.
 Homework Support (Twice Weekly): Structured academic assistance in a supervised, focused setting.
 Kangaroo Math Club: Multi-step problem-solving activities that develop reasoning, perseverance, and mathematical confidence.
 Board Game Strategy League (Fridays): Structured league-style competitions using games such as Blokus (spatial reasoning), Dixit (creative thinking), Qwirkle or Rummikub (patterns and math), Battleship (logic and coordinates), and Sushi Go! (quick strategy and probability).

These components strengthen analytical thinking, communication skills, and classroom readiness in an engaging and low-pressure format.

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STEM and Innovation Programming
Hands-on STEM modules encourage curiosity, collaboration, and real-world problem solving.
 Drone Engineering Lab (Grades 3–6): Students explore aerodynamics, basic coding, navigation challenges, and math-integrated flight tasks. Real-world applications such as agriculture and environmental monitoring are discussed.  Pop-Up Book Mechanical Engineering (Grades 1–5): Students design interactive paper mechanisms using levers, sliders, and linkages, combining storytelling with engineering principles.
 LEGO Imagineering & Innovation Lab (PreK–5): Each session begins with a real-world theme such as sustainability or inclusive design. Students brainstorm solutions, prototype with LEGO bricks, test structural integrity, and present their innovations while applying engineering concepts such as balance and stability.  VEX GO Robotics (Grades 1–3): Students build and program robots using the VEX Robotics GO system, learning gears, motion, sensors, and introductory coding through collaborative team challenges.
 Special STEM Days: 3D Printing workshops, Physics Experiment Days, and Quiz Bowl competitions.

Sessions emphasize skill progression, teamwork, coordination, and sportsmanship.

Short reflective discussions and integrated worksheets reinforce vocabulary, math concepts such as measurement and scoring, and social-emotional skills including leadership, inclusion, and respect. This integrated model ensures athletics complement academic enrichment and whole-child development.

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and physical activity promotes increased student engagement, improved confidence, collaboration skills, and long-term interest in learning.

Websites:
https://www.falkonacademy.com
https://skyhawks.com/sacramento-east-ca/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/falkonacademy
https://www.facebook.com/SkyhawksSAC/
Project Team:

Ashwin Thirunahari serves as Director of Falkon Academy and Skyhawks Sports Sacramento. Since 2021, he has overseen youth enrichment and sports programs across the Sacramento region in partnership with local schools and park districts including including at Rancho Cordova Youth Club and W.E. Mitchell Middle School. He holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering.

Additional coaches will be hired based on enrollment and will maintain a 1:15 student-tocoach ratio. All staff will complete Live Scan fingerprinting, background checks, Mandated Reporter training, First Aid/CPR certification, and youth development training to ensure safety and high-quality instruction.

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Project Goals:

Metrics for Success:
 85% or higher average attendance
 Positive student engagement survey results

2. Strengthen Academic Reinforcement Through Integrated Learning The program integrates academic elements across both STEM and sports modules.

Structured Homework Support sessions assist with assignment completion, organization skills, and study habits.

Metrics for Success:
 80% of students demonstrate improved homework completion habits  Completion of sports reflection worksheets in each seasonal module

3. Expand Access to STEM and Innovation Opportunities
Provide equitable access to robotics, drone engineering, mechanical design, and LEGObased real-world problem-solving experiences that may not be available during the regular school day.

Metrics for Success:
 Completion of at least one major STEM project per student per term  Pre/post surveys indicating increased interest in STEM  Participation across multiple grade levels

Sports workbook activities - reinforce lessons on respect, sportsmanship, and leadership, math, logic and problem solving through sports.

Metrics for Success:
 Student self-assessments reflecting growth in teamwork and confidence  Positive behavioral feedback during program hours
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5. Maintain High-Quality, Safe Programming
Operate under a 1:15 staff-to-student ratio with trained, fingerprinted instructors to ensure safety and instructional quality.

Metrics for Success:
 100% compliance with safety and background requirements  Parent satisfaction surveys
 Strong retention between Fall and Spring sessions
Metrics for Progress Measurement:

Enrollment Rates: Track the number of students enrolled in each session, comparing the enrollment figures between the two sessions.

Student Retention: Monitor the number of students completing the program and returning for subsequent sessions, identifying any drop-offs and addressing reasons for discontinuation.

Participant Feedback: Gather feedback from both students and parents regarding their experience, satisfaction, and suggestions for improvement.

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What other funding will you seek to support your project? None Please explain why you are not seeking any other funding support for your project/program.(required)
This proposal is being submitted as a direct partnership opportunity with River View STEM School to ensure alignment with campus priorities, scheduling, and student needs. At this time, we are not pursuing additional funding sources to avoid duplicating requests or creating overlapping reporting requirements that may complicate implementation.

What challenges do you anticipate in your project/program's implementation? What is your plan to complete your project/program should those or other challenges arise?(required)
Several potential challenges may arise during implementation. The primary challenge is maintaining consistent enrollment and attendance across the full August–May program year. After-school participation can fluctuate due to competing activities, transportation limitations, or family scheduling conflicts. To address this, we will conduct early outreach, provide clear communication to families, offer flexible program modules, and coordinate closely with school administration to align schedules with campus priorities.

Staffing for a 3:30–5:30 p.m. daily program may also present challenges. We will maintain a qualified substitute pool and staggered staffing model to ensure consistent 1:15 supervision ratios. All instructors will be pre-screened and trained prior to program launch.

How many individuals does your project/program serve?(required) The program will serve approximately 25 students per module, resulting in over 250 total enrichment participation opportunities across STEM, academic, and sports programs during the school year. (Homework help could have two different groups) (That’s 10 major modules × 25 students = 250 participant-slots.) How many Rancho Cordova residents does your project/program serve?(required)
Its only open to Rancho Cordova residents.

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Please provide the names of your contacts at the school(s) or district(s) who are familiar with your project/program.(required)
Lari Powell - Riverview STEM Academy, Principal
Folsom Cordova Unified School District
Email: [email protected]
Physical Address/School District
The program will be run at “River View Stem” in Rancho Cordova. We have already discussed the possibility of running this program with the principal.

Application Submitted by
Name: Ashwin Thirunahari
Title: Director

Organization’s Legal Name (if applicable): Falkon Academy Signatory (Same as above)
Signatory’s Name: Ashwin Thirunahari
Title: Director
Closing Comments:

There is a growing need for structured, high-quality after-school enrichment programs that extend learning beyond the traditional classroom. As technology advances—from artificial intelligence and automation to emerging STEM industries—students must be equipped not only with technical knowledge, but also with critical thinking, collaboration, resilience, and leadership skills.

At the same time, academic reinforcement and physical wellness remain essential components of student success. Many families do not have access to comprehensive enrichment programs that combine STEM innovation, homework support, strategic thinking, and structured athletics in one coordinated model.

This proposal represents more than an after-school program; it is a structured enrichment ecosystem designed to build curiosity, confidence, academic growth, and ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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No: Not a First Time Applicant
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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

Riverview STEM Academy Competitive VEX IQ Robotics Program Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Falkon Academy will provide a VEX IQ Competitive Robotics program for 3rd–8th grade students at Riverview STEM Academy and other kids from Rancho Cordova. Students will build, code, and compete in competitive robotics competitions while developing problem-solving, teamwork, and STEM skills. Revitalizing the program at Riverview STEM.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Falkon Academy proposes to restart and operate a VEX IQ Competitive Robotics Program at Riverview STEM Academy serving students in grades 3–8. The program will run from August through February, aligning with the official VEX IQ competition season, and will be open to students from Riverview as well as other interested participants from the Rancho Cordova community.

River View STEM Elementary already possesses VEX IQ robotics equipment; however, the competitive robotics program has not been consistently active in recent years, and participation in regional robotics tournaments has been limited. This project aims to revitalize the program by providing structured coaching, consistent weekly team practices, and guidance throughout the full robotics competition season.

The program will meet two times per week and will focus on preparing student teams to participate in official VEX IQ robotics competitions held throughout Northern California. Students will work in small teams to design, build, and program robots capable of completing the annual VEX IQ robotics challenge. Through this process, participants will learn core engineering principles including mechanical design, drivetrain construction, gear ratios, structural stability, sensors, and block-based programming.

Competitive robotics encourages students to apply the engineering design process, which includes brainstorming solutions, building prototypes, testing robot performance, identifying improvements, and refining designs through iterative problem-solving. Teams will also develop competition strategies, practice match play, and participate in scrimmages that simulate real tournament environments.

Operating a competitive robotics program requires a higher level of commitment compared to introductory STEM activities. Students will attend ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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two structured practices each week, while coaches provide additional preparation time supporting robot development, programming, and competition readiness. The program will include two coaches who will collectively dedicate approximately seven hours per week to instruction, mentoring, and preparation.

Students participating in the program will have opportunities to attend regional VEX IQ robotics tournaments during the competition season.

These events typically occur on weekends and bring together robotics teams from across Northern California. Competitions provide students with valuable opportunities to test their robots, collaborate with other teams, and experience the excitement of STEM competitions. Parent participation is an important component of competitive robotics programs and helps support transportation, team coordination, and student engagement during competition events.

Falkon Academy has extensive experience delivering robotics programs and mentoring competitive teams across the Sacramento region. Each year, Falkon Academy coaches multiple teams that participate in regional robotics competitions. In the most recent season, three Falkon Academy teams qualified for the VEX IQ State Championship, and in a previous season one team advanced to the VEX World Championship. This experience provides participating students with strong technical mentorship, structured training, and guidance through the competitive robotics process.

By revitalizing the competitive robotics program at Riverview STEM Academy, this project will strengthen Rancho Cordova’s representation in regional robotics competitions and provide students with advanced STEM learning opportunities. The program will help students develop technical problem-solving skills, teamwork, leadership, and confidence while fostering long-term interest in science, engineering, and technology.

This program is designed to be flexible based on available funding. If the project is fully funded, the program will be fully supported through grant funding. If partial funding is awarded, the program may still proceed with a portion of the remaining costs supported through modest parent participation fees to ensure the sustainability of the robotics teams and competition participation.

Website: https://www.falkonacademy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/falkonacademy
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Ashwin Thirunahari Ashwin Thirunahari has master’s in electrical engineering. And has patents on drone technology. Besides Robotics he taught Drone Programming, RC Airplanes, 3D CAD, 3D Printing and other programming classes.

Maurice Velandia has a degree in electrical engineering, and retired working as computer engineer. He has previously coached underwater robotics team and took them to worlds. This year he coached kids at Mitchell Middle School and Rolling Hills Middle School.

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Provide your
Project/Program
Goals

1. Increase STEM Engagement Through Competitive Robotics Strengthen student interest and confidence in STEM by engaging grades 3–8 students in hands-on robotics design, programming, and competition preparation. Success will be measured by enrolling up to 30 students, maintaining at least 80% program completion, and student surveys indicating increased confidence in engineering and technology concepts.

2. Revitalize Competitive Robotics Program at Riverview Form and mentor six student robotics teams that will design, build, and program robots to compete in official VEX IQ challenges. Such a program used to run at Riverview STEM before.

3. Expand STEM Opportunities for Rancho Cordova Students Provide students from Riverview STEM Academy and neighboring Rancho Cordova schools with access to a structured competitive robotics program.

Success will be measured by enrollment of students from multiple schools and increased representation of Rancho Cordova teams in regional robotics competitions.

4. Encourage Parent and Community Engagement
Promote family involvement in student STEM learning through robotics showcases, competition events, and volunteer opportunities. Success will be measured by parent participation in team activities, competition attendance, and positive feedback from families.

5. Maintain High Program Participation and Retention
Provide structured twice-weekly robotics practices throughout the August–February competition season to maintain strong student engagement. Success will be measured by maintaining at least 80% attendance, consistent team participation, and student satisfaction with the robotics experience.

Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

RANCHO_Proposal_Falkon_River_IQ_26_27_Budget.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.

Total project/program
cost*
18220
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What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
12020
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
10920
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
1300
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
800
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
5200
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

RANCHO_Proposal_Falkon_River_IQ_26_27_Budget.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
No, not seeking any other funding support.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Please explain why
you are not seeking
any other funding
support for your
project/program.

At this time, we are not actively pursuing additional grant funding sources for this project in order to maintain clarity in program administration and reporting. This proposal is being submitted as a direct partnership opportunity with Riverview STEM Academy to support local STEM education and expand competitive robotics opportunities for students in the Rancho Cordova community.

While Falkon Academy continues to explore future partnerships and district-level opportunities for STEM programming, this specific project is being proposed independently to avoid overlapping funding requests. If additional funding opportunities arise that support the same program, we will fully disclose and coordinate with CEIF to ensure transparency and avoid duplication of funding.

If the project receives partial funding, the program may still proceed with a portion of the remaining costs supported through modest parent participation contributions. This approach helps ensure the sustainability of the robotics teams while maintaining access for committed students.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

NONE
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

No
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
8/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
2/28/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
August – September
Marketing to parents/kids to all Rancho Cordova schools September
Start forming teams and have regular classes.

November
Attend one competitition
January
Attend 2nd Competition
February
Attend 3rd competition and program concludes.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
One anticipated challenge is achieving sufficient enrollment and sustained participation for a competitive robotics program. Competitive robotics requires a higher level of commitment compared to traditional after-school activities, including regular weekly practices and occasional weekend competitions. Some families may have scheduling conflicts with sports or other extracurricular activities, and in cases of partial funding, not all families may be able to contribute participation fees. To address this, Falkon Academy will conduct outreach through school announcements, flyers, informational meetings, and robotics demonstration events to build interest among students and families. The program will also remain open to students from neighboring Rancho Cordova schools to broaden the potential participant pool. If enrollment is lower than expected, teams may be formed with smaller groups while maintaining a strong learning experience for participating students.

A second challenge involves the time commitment required for competitive robotics coaching and tournament participation. The program requires consistent mentoring, approximately seven hours of coaching support per week, as well as coordination for regional competitions that may occur on weekends. Falkon Academy has experience operating competitive robotics teams and maintains a network of trained robotics instructors who can assist with coaching responsibilities. Two coaches will be assigned to the program to ensure consistent support for teams, technical guidance for robot development, and supervision during practices and competitions.

Finally, participation in robotics tournaments requires logistical coordination including registration, transportation, and communication with parents.

Falkon Academy will work closely with school administration and participating families to coordinate competition schedules and ensure students are well prepared for events.

Through proactive outreach, flexible team organization, experienced coaching support, and strong collaboration with the school community, Falkon Academy is prepared to address these challenges and successfully implement the competitive robotics program at Riverview STEM Academy.

How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
25 How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
25 4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Primary street
address of
project/program
Riverview STEM Academy,10700 Ambassador Dr, Rancho Cordova, CA List the city location
of the
project/program.

Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Ashwin
Thirunahari
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Falkon Academy
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Director
Provide contact
phone number:

Provide contact
email:

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Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Expenses Outline:

Equipment Costs Cost
5 VEX IQ Competition Kit (School already has) $0
1 VEX IQ Pitching Field. (School already has) $0
2 VEX IQ Field Elements $300
Replacement Parts $1000
Total Cost of Equipment $1300
Execution Costs Cost
Cost of Coaching: 2hrs a week
Two coaches and a partial manager
One coach per 14kids.

Session Aug’26 to Feb’27 $10,920
Competition Registration Fee (5 teams) $3,500
School Room Rental for 150hrs payment to
FCUSD $800
Insurance and overhead $1400
Marketing Costs (Flyers) $300
Total cost of Execution $16,920
Total Cost of the program: $18,220
Option 1:

Fully funded by CEIF: $18,220
Option 2:

Parent Funding: 33% = $6200
CEIF Funding = $12,020
Is this a multiyear request? NO
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that: “denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-todate on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available.

Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.

No: Not a First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

Industrial AI Agent Development Program
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
The Industrial AI Agent Development Program trains 50 high school and community college students in artificial intelligence and coding. Students progress from foundational concepts to advanced applications while building AI agents that solve industrial challenges. The program strengthens technical and problem solving skills, preparing students for future technology driven careers.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Suvidha International Foundation has successfully hosted two AI Boot Camps for city AI enthusiasts and an After School AI Program for high school students to introduce artificial intelligence and Generative AI concepts.

As part of the After School AI Program, students developed two real world AI applications addressing local needs. One was a Customer Service AI Agent for the City of Rancho Cordova to help residents access city service information. The second was an Energy Efficiency AI Agent developed with SMUD to help homeowners, renters, and small businesses better understand energy use and reduce utility costs.

The program benefited 32 students and provided hands on experience in Generative AI, Python, machine learning, and natural language processing.

Rancho Cordova Mayor Gatewood, Council Members Siri Pulipati and Joe Little, and the City’s Chief Technology and Innovation Officer Rita Gass, and local IT professionals attended demo and final showcases and commended Suvidha for preparing students for emerging AI driven careers.

Building on this success, Suvidha plans to launch a new Industrial AI Agent Development Program. The program will serve 50 participants (grades 9–12 and community college students), including at least 43 students from Rancho Cordova and up to 7 students from elsewhere in Sacramento County, aligned with a sponsor request for regional representation.

One hundred percent of CEIF funds and 50 percent of sponsor funds will support Rancho Cordova youth, while the remaining 50% of the sponsor funds will support non–Rancho Cordova participants. The estimated cost is about $1,400 per student ($70,000 for 50 students), and all expenses will be documented to ensure CEIF funds support only Rancho Cordova residents.

The program prioritizes new students, though a few prior participants may join if space allows. It will provide hands-on training in AI and AI agent ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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development, covering applications such as customer service, banking, career guidance, and business automation.

No prior AI experience is required. The curriculum supports beginners while allowing advanced learners to explore more complex AI solutions. The curriculum is delivered in multiple phases, beginning with the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing.

Students learn how AI is applied in real world situations and gain an understanding of AI agent design and architecture. They then learn Python and take part in hands-on labs to build practical skills.

In the next phase, students apply their learning to real world problems.

Working in teams, they explore industry challenges, identify two to three key problems, and build AI agents using Python. They design conversational logic and connect their solutions to web based platforms. Students build, test, and refine their applications while developing technical, analytical, and teamwork skills. Creativity, problem solving, and user experience are key focus areas.

As part of demo, the participants present their projects to city leaders, industry professionals, and community members and receive feedback.

In the following phase, students enhance their applications by adding new features and improving performance. They then present their work at a final showcase event, where participants receive certificates of completion along with awards for innovation and technical excellence.

In the final phase, two student leads will be selected from the current program for an advanced learning and leadership opportunity after the showcase. They will spend an average of four hours per week for 10 plus weeks improving the AI applications developed during the program by collecting real time data, refining system performance, and incorporating user feedback to move the projects closer to practical real world use. The student leads will receive one hour of weekly guidance from experienced program mentors, including structured training in AI application improvement, data collection, system testing, and performance optimization. Deliverables include enhancing the applications presented at the final showcase by improving response accuracy, adding new features, and documenting improvements for a follow up presentation or program report.

The program will maintain the same core measurable outcomes as the previous year, including student enrollment targets, assignment completion rates, development of functional AI applications, and student presentations at a final showcase. The expanded program will include community college students, greater collaboration between high school and college students, and more advanced AI features. Selected student leads will continue refining applications after the showcase to improve accuracy and add new capabilities.

By the end of the program, students gain a strong understanding of AI and AI agent development. They develop hands on experience in designing, coding, and deploying AI solutions while strengthening communication, collaboration, and presentation skills. The program enhances their academic portfolios and prepares them for college and future careers.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Suvidha International Foundation is partnering with LLM Scale.AI to launch the Industrial AI Agent Development Program. The initiative is led by Bhaskar Vempati, Manish Ved, and Vandna Sharma, along with youth directors Sriram Vempati and Arjun Dhulipala. The program will be facilitated by Mr. Jothi Periyasamy, a Stanford graduate and AI expert with 20 years of experience, supported by his LLM at Scale.AI team. Deep Science AI Foundation founder Satvika Jothi will also contribute. Together, the team will provide expert mentorship and hands on training to prepare students to build real world AI solutions.

Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Project Goals and How We Measure Success
The goal of the Industrial AI Agent Development Program is to teach high school and community college students practical AI skills and help them build real world AI solutions. The program prepares students for college and future careers in technology by combining learning with hands on projects.

Goals and Measurable Results
Student Participation and Completion
Enroll 50 students.

A minimum of 43 students from Rancho Cordova and additional students from outside Rancho Cordova.

Ensure at least 80 percent of students complete the program.

Skill Development
Conduct assessments to measure learning progress.

Ensure at least 80 percent of students complete required labs and assignments.

AI Project Development
Develop at least 2 working AI agent applications.

Have mentors and industry professionals evaluate the projects.

Career Readiness
Survey students to measure increased interest in STEM careers, targeting at least 80 percent positive responses.

Ongoing Impact
Hire two students (referred as student leads earlier) from the current program participants to continue improving selected AI applications.

Track improvements such as better system performance, higher response accuracy, and user feedback over time.

Keeping the Team Focused
The program will follow a structured schedule with clear phases, milestones, and deliverables. Regular mentor check ins, project reviews, and progress tracking will help students stay aligned with program goals. Feedback from city leaders and industry professionals will ensure the projects remain practical and relevant.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Long Term Program Outcomes & Industrial Associations
Suvidha International Foundation will track several long-term outcomes to measure the program’s impact, including continued student engagement in AI and STEM activities, participation in advanced technology projects, and interest in pursuing STEM or AI related college majors and careers. We will also monitor whether students continue improving their AI applications, participate in future programs, or take on leadership roles in similar initiatives.

In addition to partnerships with the City, the school district, and regional sponsors, we are working to engage technology professionals and companies to support the program through mentorship, guest lectures, and guidance on real world AI applications. We are also exploring technological support from organizations such as Amazon Web Services and other industry partners.

By setting clear goals and measuring outcomes consistently, the program will stay focused and deliver strong educational and community impact.

Optional File Upload:

Provide any
additional records to
supplement your
program/project
application. Note:

Combine multiple files
in one pdf before
uploading.
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this section
with total dollar
amounts for your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.

Total project/program
cost*
70000
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
50000
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
16000
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
5000
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your project/program?
2500
What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
17500
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
29000
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
2026_Budget_-_Industrial_AI_Agent_Development_R1.pdf
Has your organization
sought or will seek
other funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.

Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.

We are expecting $20,000 from a Sacramento region sponsors. Based on their request, the program will include about 7 students from the Sacramento region outside Rancho Cordova.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

None
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

Yes
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Please share the
total dollar amount for
volunteer/in-kind
support using $34.79
as the national rate
for a volunteer hour.

Source: Value of
Volunteer Time
18264
Please provide a worksheet explaining your volunteer/in-kind contribution. You may upload a file in the following formats: CSV, DOC, DOCX, or PDF.

Volunteer_InKind_Support-AI_Program.csv
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for multiple
years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
Yes
How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
1 How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our traditional
grants (not including
microgrants)?
Approximately 145000
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
5/31/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
Implementation Plan
July 1 – August 31, 2026
• Finalize the curriculum, recruit instructors and mentors, and prepare all materials, equipment, AI tools, and lab access for program delivery. • Coordinate with school partners and promote the program through schools and community channels, including hosting informational sessions. • Enroll students with a focused outreach to underserved populations.

September 01 – November 20, 2026
• Deliver structured AI instruction sessions covering AI fundamentals, machine learning basics, and AI agent development using real-world examples. • Guide students in team-based, hands-on AI projects focused on practical applications such as community services, banking, energy efficiency, or sustainability
• Provide ongoing mentorship, lab access, and technical support to help students design, build, and test AI projects.
• Demo the projects and collect feedback for additional enhancements November 21 – December 12, 2026
• Conduct final project presentations, allowing students to demonstrate learning outcomes and practical applications
December 12 – March 31, 2027
• Student leads test and enhance AI applications for additional features March 31 – May 31, 2027
• Submit final project reports including expenses to the CEIF Team ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
One of the key challenges in implementing the Industrial AI Agent Development Program is accommodating the wide range of technical skill levels among participating students. The program includes both high school and community college students, and their backgrounds in coding, mathematics, and artificial intelligence may vary significantly. Ensuring that all students can effectively grasp AI and AI agent development concepts within a limited timeframe requires thoughtful instructional design and differentiated support.

Another anticipated challenge is scheduling conflicts caused by academic workloads, exams, and sports or other extracurricular commitments. Many students balance rigorous coursework along with athletic participation, which can impact attendance, consistent engagement, and overall participation throughout the program. To address this, we have allocated a $3,000 budget to reward students and motivate them to stay engaged and complete 100% of their assignments on time. Additionally, access to reliable hardware, software, and internet connectivity may vary among participants, potentially impacting their ability to complete assignments or projects outside of in-person sessions. Maintaining engagement can also be challenging, as AI concepts are complex and require sustained focus and hands-on practice.

To address these challenges, we will provide foundational learning materials to help students build essential skills before progressing to advanced AI agent development. Instruction will be structured with tiered assignments, smallgroup mentoring, and peer collaboration so that beginners receive additional support while advanced students remain challenged. We will ensure that all required software tools are accessible through cloud-based platforms and provide in-person technical assistance as needed. To accommodate academic and sports commitments, we will offer a hybrid structure with flexible scheduling, recorded sessions, and makeup sessions. Engagement will be strengthened through interactive labs, real-world case studies, industry guest speakers, and milestone-based project reviews. If additional challenges arise, we will adapt through personalized mentoring, schedule adjustments, and continuous feedback to ensure successful completion and meaningful learning outcomes for all participants.

How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
50 How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
43 4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website: https://www.cordovarpd.gov/.

CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District: [email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.

Primary street
address of
project/program
2239 Chase Dr, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Cordova High School
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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If your
project/program takes
place at multiple
locations, please list
other or secondary
locations.

Demo and showcasing events at City Hall, Rancho Cordova Third Party Letters of Support (Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading) FCUSDs_Planned_Endorsement_of_After_School_AI_Program_at_Cordova_High_School.pdf Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
Yes
Is the project/program
requesting facility use
only or is this a
request to partner
with the school
district?
Partner with school on project/program
Please select all the
school districts which
your project/program
intends to involve:

Folsom Cordova USD
Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District school
facilities which your
project/program will
involve:

Cordova High School
Kinney High School
Innovations Academy
Walnutwood High School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Some, but not all
Are there still schools
you need to contact?
If so, please list them
below.

Cordova High School (have already contacted them)
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or district(s)
who are familiar with
your project/program.

Cordova High School Principal: Ms. Amy Strawn
FCUSD Superintendent: Erik Swanson
FCUSD Board President: Jennifer Laret
FCUSD Board Vice President: Y.K.Chalamcherla
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Bhadraiah (Bhaskar)
Vempati
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
No
Provide contact
phone number:
+
Provide contact
email:

Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to sign
the contract for your
organization?
Yes, I would be the one to sign the contract
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026- 2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.

Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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CEIF Sponsor
# Description Amount, $ Amount, $ Personnel, $ Transportation, $ Supplies, $ Equipment, $ Miscellenous, $ 1 Instructor & Mentor Stipend $10,000.00 $10,000.00
2 Student Leads for Advance Learning $3,000.00 $3,000.00 3 Professional Training Material $2,000.00 $2,000.00 $4,000.00 4 Lap tops & Wifi Hot Spots for Needy Students $12,500.00 $5,000.00 $17,500.00 5 Venue & Logistics $2,500.00 $2,500.00
6 Lab Licenses & Cloud Storage $4,000.00 $8,500.00 $12,500.00 7 Marketing & Outreach $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $2,000.00
8 Projects Demo & Showcasing Events $2,500.00 $1,000.00 $3,500.00 9 Student Rewards (for completing assignments on time) $3,000.00 $3,000.00 10 Student Awards & Volunteer Appreciation $2,000.00 $500.00 $2,500.00 11 Snacks/Food for Participants $3,000.00 $500.00 $3,500.00 12 Student Transportation Support $2,000.00 $500.00 $2,500.00 13 Stationary $1,000.00 $500.00 $1,500.00
14 Insurance for venues and program $1,000.00 $1,000.00 15 Photography/Videography $500.00 $500.00 $1,000.00
Grant Total $50,000.00 $20,000.00 $16,000.00 $2,500.00 $5,000.00 $17,500.00 $29,000.00 Cost,$ / participant (=$70,000/50) $1,400.00
Representation # Participants Amount, $
Rancho Cordova 43 $60,200.00
Non-Rancho Cordova 7 $9,800.00
Total 50 $70,000.00
Item# Description Description
Instructor & Mentor Stipend $10,000 towards instructor and mentors stipend from September 2026 to May 2027 Student Leads for Advance Learning $3,000 contribution for student leads for enhancing AI applications with data collection, testing and optimization of applications Professional Training Material $4,000 for creation of professional training material, flyers, posters and similar items. The training material includes advanced topics Lap tops & Wifi Hot Spots for Needy Students
$17,500 contribution towards new laptops and wifi hot spots for needy students. The students will keep laptops and hot spots after successful program completion. The costs also cover additional hardware purchaes. The previous program laptops were given to students for their successful completion of the program. The new laptops attacts participants and help retain them for the complete program.

Venue & Logistics $2,500 for venue (classroom, demo and final showcasing) expenses Lab Licenses & Cloud Storage $12,500 for AI model, cloud storage and other related expenses. The costs are based on monthly subscriptions and data usage Marketing & Outreach $2,000 for marketing and outreach efforts including online promotions, flyers, community stalls Projects Demo & Showcasing Events The food and other expenses for demo and show casing events Student Rewards
$3,000 for students to motivae them to complete assignments and project tasks on time. The costs include referral $ for students to bring their classmates
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Student & VolunteerAwards $2,500 for student awards, mentor and volunteer appreciation plaques Snacks/Food for Participants
$3,500 for the participant food and beverages. We expect more in-person attendees due to the more flexible schedule. Plan to add weekend sessions as well
Student Transportation Support $2,500 for student transportation expenses Stationary $1,500 for Stationary and related expenses
Insurance for venues and program $1,000 for venue insurance related expenses Photography/Videography $1,000 for photography of sessions, demo and final showcasing events ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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CEIF
# Description# of Volunte# of Average Rate, $ Total Cost, $ 1 Adult Volun 15 25 $34.79 $13,046.25
2 High Schoo 6 25 $34.79 $5,218.50
Grant Total 21 $18,264.75
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Bhaskar Vempati
Request for FCUSD Endorsement of After School AI Program at Cordova High School
Erik Swanson <[email protected]> Fri, Feb 13, 2026 at 2:09 PM To: Suvidha International Foundation
Cc: Angela Griffin <[email protected]>, Martha Campos <[email protected]>, Amy Strawn <[email protected]> Bhaskar,
Happy Friday! Thanks for all you are doing to support our students at Cordova High School. The district supports the CEIF grant that the Suvidha International Foundation is submitting to the City of Rancho Cordova. Good luck with your application and please let us know if you need anything else.

Sincerely,
From: Suvidha International Foundation
Date: Monday, February 9, 2026 at 5:11 PM
To: Erik Swanson <[email protected]>
Cc: Angela Griffin <[email protected]>, Martha Campos <[email protected]>, Amy Strawn <[email protected]>
Subject: Request for FCUSD Endorsement of After School AI Program at Cordova High School You don't often get email from s Learn why this is important [EXTERNAL SENDER]
Mr. Swanson:

I hope you are doing well.

On behalf of Suvidha International Foundation, I would like to thank the Cordova High School administration, including Principal Amy Strawn, and FCUSD for hosting our recent After School AI Program at Cordova High School. I am very glad to let you know that our recent Afterschool AI program at Cordova High School was a great success and provided students with meaningful, real world experience in artificial intelligence.

I had the opportunity to share the success of our After School AI Program at the School Board meeting held on February 5, 2026. Thank you for providing this opportunity.

We were honored to have FCUSD Board President Jennifer attend the final showcasing event and FCUSD Vice President Y.K. Chalamcherla attended the earlier demo session. Their presence and words of appreciation meant a great deal to our students and volunteers. Their recognition highlighted the importance of providing students with access to advanced technology learning opportunities that prepare them for future academic and career success. 2/26/26, 12:57 AM Gmail - Request for FCUSD Endorsement of After School AI Program at Cordova High School https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=1b533b74ca&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f:1857049641779367965&dsqt=1&simpl=msg-f:1857049641… 1/2 ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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City of Rancho Cordova Powered by Submittable
Title United Way California Capital
Region KinderCamp
by Edward King in Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund
Grant Application
Sacramento, California
95827
United States
[email protected]
03/06/2026
id. 53407361
Original Submission 03/06/2026
Score n/a
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No: Not a First Time Applicant
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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

United Way California Capital Region KinderCamp
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
United Way California Capital Region’s KinderCamp is a four-week, full-day summer readiness program for 160 incoming kindergarteners (ages 4–6) without prior preschool experience at four Folsom Cordova School District campuses. The program builds literacy, math, and social-emotional skills to increase school readiness, confidence, and peer engagement.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
United Way seeks support to implement KinderCamp, a four-week, full-day summer school readiness program for children ages 4–6 who will enter kindergarten in the fall and have not had prior preschool experience. The program will be delivered at four elementary school campuses within the Folsom Cordova Unified School District in Rancho Cordova and will serve 160 children. KinderCamp is designed to close opportunity gaps for children impacted by poverty who may otherwise enter kindergarten without exposure to structured early learning environments.

KinderCamp aligns with the City of Rancho Cordova’s demonstrated commitment to investing Measure H resources in youth development, educational equity, and prevention-focused strategies. Through recent investments in the Rancho Cordova Youth Center, expanded learning programs, and STEM enrichment opportunities, the City has prioritized creating safe, structured environments that strengthen academic foundations and social-emotional growth.

KinderCamp directly advances these local priorities by serving as an early intervention strategy for children ages 4–6 who have not had access to preschool. As a four-week summer bridge program, KinderCamp prepares young learners academically, socially, and emotionally for kindergarten, helping to close opportunity gaps before they widen. By strengthening school readiness at the earliest stage, the program supports the City’s broader goals of promoting long-term educational success, community safety, and equitable access to opportunity for Rancho Cordova families.

The program operates Monday through Friday for eight hours per day over four weeks. Each day follows a structured yet developmentally appropriate routine that blends teacher-led instruction with child-initiated exploration.

Activities are intentionally designed to build foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, fine and gross motor development, problem-solving, and peer ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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interaction. Examples include name-writing practice, letter and sound recognition activities, counting games, puzzles, Legos, arts and crafts that strengthen scissor and pencil skills, songs that reinforce days of the week and classroom routines, and outdoor play to support physical development The learning environment is intentionally structured to mirror the expectations of a kindergarten classroom. Children practice lining up, transitioning between activities, sharing materials, following directions, and engaging respectfully with peers and adults. These routines help students build classroom readiness and confidence prior to the first day of school.

Because programming takes place directly on elementary school campuses within Folsom Cordova Unified School District in Rancho Cordova, children and families also become familiar with the physical school setting, reducing anxiety and increasing comfort when the academic year begins.

KinderCamp incorporates evidence-informed strategies that promote early literacy and school readiness. Each day a child attends, they receive a brand-new book to take home, building home libraries and reinforcing reading habits. In the coming year, UWCCR will further engage families by distributing information about the science of reading through the Book Buddy initiative, encouraging caregivers to read regularly with their children and strengthening parent capacity to support literacy development at home.

The program also supports children’s overall well-being. Students receive a healthy lunch daily to ensure they are physically prepared to engage in learning. Additionally, UWCCR sponsors a weekly Kids Farmer’s Market activity, allowing children to take home fresh fruits and vegetables. This component reinforces healthy habits while addressing food access challenges that disproportionately impact low-income families.

Recruitment will occur in collaboration with Folsom Cordova Unified School District, which will conduct outreach to families of incoming kindergarteners who meet eligibility criteria. YMCA Superior California will also assist with outreach to families connected to its early childhood and community programs. Retention will be supported through engaging, age-appropriate programming, the provision of free books, and nutritious meals, all of which reduce participation barriers for families.

UWCCR brings extensive organizational capacity to implement KinderCamp. The organization has served the region for 100 years and has operated KinderCamp since 2015. In the past year alone, 80 children participated in KinderCamp, with 85% demonstrating improvements in fine motor skills, classroom readiness, and parental confidence in kindergarten readiness. Program oversight will be provided by Director of Impact Zelene Molina, who brings significant experience in education and youth development, supported by YMCA’s credentialed early childhood educators.

Participant enrollment, attendance, and outcomes will be tracked through UWCCR’s internal case management system, Apricot. Pre- and postassessments, including tools such as the DIAL-4 or similar developmental measures, will be used to evaluate gains in readiness and skill development. Data will be analyzed following each session to inform continuous quality improvement and ensure program effectiveness.

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Through intentional curriculum design, strong partnerships, family engagement, and a focus on equity, KinderCamp equips children with the academic foundation, social-emotional skills, and confidence needed to enter kindergarten ready to learn and succeed.

Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
KinderCamp is led by United Way California Capital Region’s Program Manager , Bianca Solorio, who oversees program design, implementation, reporting, and quality improvement. Ms. Solorio brings extensive experience in education, youth development, and supporting historically underserved students, along with a strong commitment to advancing educational equity. Direct services are delivered by qualified early childhood educators provided through YMCA Superior California, a longstanding partner experienced in operating licensed early learning programs.

Each site is staffed by four full-time equivalent educators to ensure highquality adult-child engagement and appropriate supervision. Together, UWCCR and YMCA provide experienced leadership, instructional expertise, and operational capacity.

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Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Primary Goal:

Increase kindergarten readiness among children ages 4–6 who have not had prior preschool experience and are most impacted by poverty.

Academic & Developmental Goals:

1. At least 65% of participants will score higher on the DIAL-4 or similar assessment compared to peers.

2. At least 75% of participants will move up at least one level from pre- to post-assessment.

3. At least 85% of participants will demonstrate measurable improvement in fine motor skills, classroom readiness, and parental confidence in kindergarten readiness.

Social-Emotional Goals:

4. Increase peer engagement and positive social interaction skills.

5. Build individual confidence and comfort within a classroom setting.

6. Strengthen students’ ability to follow classroom routines and behavioral expectations.

Family Engagement Goals:

7. Increase caregiver involvement in early literacy through daily book distribution and reading encouragement.

8. Strengthen parents’ understanding of kindergarten expectations and strategies to support learning at home.

Long-Term Impact Goal:

Ensure children enter kindergarten safe, healthy, confident, and equipped with foundational academic and social-emotional skills that support longterm educational success.

Optional File Upload:

Provide any
additional records to
supplement your
program/project
application. Note:

Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading.
2 - Funding & Costs
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.

Total project/program
cost*
224953
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
182400
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
160000
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
22400
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
0 Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

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United_Way_KinderCamp_Program_Budget_26_27.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.

Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.

We continue to seek funding to expand educational opportunities to marganlized communities, especially those with limited educational enrichment resources. We continue to work with our financial and health partners to secure resources for these types of services, incuding commitments from US Bank and will be reapplying for services through Health Net.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

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Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/30/2026
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
Program Implementation Timeline
Planning and Program Development
September – February
United Way California Capital Region coordinates with Folsom Cordova Unified School District and YMCA of Superior California to prepare for program implementation.

Key Activities
Secure elementary school campus in Rancho Cordova
Finalize curriculum aligned with kindergarten readiness standards
Hire and train teaching staff and classroom assistants
Order classroom supplies, books, and instructional materials Coordinate meal service and Kids Farmer’s Market logistics Set up program tracking and evaluation systems (Apricot) Prepare readiness assessment tools (DIAL-4 or similar)
Outreach and Enrollment
March – May
Recruitment focuses on incoming kindergarten students who have not attended preschool and may benefit from additional school readiness support.

Key Activities
FCUSD conducts outreach to eligible families
YMCA supports recruitment through early childhood programs Enrollment forms distributed and completed
Parent information sessions and program orientation
Finalize participant roster (40 students)
KinderCamp Summer Program
June 8 – July 10
Monday – Friday | 8 Hours per Day
KinderCamp operates as a full-day summer bridge program designed to mirror the expectations of a kindergarten classroom while maintaining developmentally appropriate learning through play and exploration.

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Children practice classroom routines including lining up, transitioning between activities, sharing materials, and following directions to build confidence before the start of the school year.

Daily Learning Activities Include
Early literacy instruction (letter recognition, name writing, story time)
Numeracy and problem-solving games
Arts, crafts, and fine motor skill development
Outdoor play and gross motor development
Songs and routines reinforcing classroom expectations
Cooperative play and social-emotional learning
Enrichment Supports
Each child receives a new book daily to build their home library and encourage reading at home.

Students receive a healthy lunch each day to support well-being and learning readiness.

A weekly Kids Farmer’s Market provides fresh fruits and vegetables for families, reinforcing healthy habits.

Evaluation and Reporting
July – August
Following program completion, UWCCR will analyze program outcomes and participant progress.

Evaluation Measures
Pre- and post-program developmental assessments
Attendance and engagement tracking
Parent feedback and program satisfaction
Improvements in:
classroom readiness
fine motor development
early literacy skills
parental confidence in kindergarten readiness
Evaluation results will inform program improvement and future KinderCamp implementation.

Students Served: 160
Program Length: 4 Weeks
Total Instructional Time: 160 Hours
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What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
No current issues anticipated in the timeline.

How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
160
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
160
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Primary street
address of
project/program
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Sactamento
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95827
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If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.

Rancho Cordova Elementary
Cordova Villa Elementary
Cordova Gardens Elementary
White Rock Elementary
Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:

Folsom Cordova USD
Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District
school facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:

Cordova Gardens Elementary School
Cordova Villa Elementary School
Rancho Cordova Elementary School
White Rock Elementary School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Yes
Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or
district(s) who are
familiar with your
project/program.

Channa Pitt, Assistant Superintendent
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Edward
King
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
United Way California Capital Region
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Chief Program Offiver
Provide contact
phone number:

Provide contact
email:
[email protected]
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
No, someone else would sign the contract
If selected by the
City Council to
receive an award,
what is the name of
the person at your
organization who
would sign the
contract?
Dawnte
Early
What is the title of
this individual?
President and CEO
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What is the best
phone number where
we could contact the
signatory?
What is the best
email address to
contact the
signatory?
[email protected]
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.

Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Staffing Projected CEIF Other Funders IN-Kind Notes
Summer Counselors $ 160,000.00 $ 160,000.00 $ - $ - Program staffing supported through YMCA Program Manager $ 10,275.00 $ - $ 10,275.00 $ - Program administration provided by UWCCR Total Staffing $ 170,275.00 $ 160,000.00 $ 10,275.00 $ -

SUPPLIES
Books $ 22,400.00 $ 22,400.00 $ - $ - Daily book per child to develop home library T-shirts $ 1,980.00 $ - $ 1,980.00 $ - High quality shirt for graduation ceremony Backpacks $ 2,880.00 $ - $ 2,880.00 $ - Backpack provided as graduation gift Graduation materials $ 4,000.00 0 $ 4,000.00 $ - School supplies and games provided to graduating particiapnts Total Supplies $ 31,260.00 $ 22,400.00 $ 8,860.00 $ -
Transportation
Mileage $ 580.00 $ - $ 580.00 $ - Program oversight/site visits during programming Graduation mileage $ 1,087.50 $ - $ 1,087.00 $ - Volunteer mileage related to graduation activities Total Transportation $ 1,667.50 $ - $ 1,667.00 $ -
Miscellaneous
Graduation Food $ 4,000.00 $ - $ 4,000.00 $ - Food services related to graduation ceremonies Social Media Ads $ 750.00 $ - $ 750.00 $ - Updates to website and targetted outreach Program flyers and handouts $ 1,000.00 $ - $ 1,000.00 $ - Printed materials for distribution at outreach events Program Food Services $ 16,000.00 $ - $ - $ 16,000.00 Daily food service for access to healthy lunch Total Transportation $ 21,750.00 $ - $ 5,750.00 $ 16,000.00 TOTAL COSTS $ 224,952.50 $ 182,400.00 $ 26,552.00 $ 16,000.00 United Way California Capital Region KinderCamp Budget
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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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No: Not a First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

W. E. Mitchell Middle VEX IQ Robotics Program
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Falkon Academy will offer VEX IQ programs for 4th–8th grade students at W.E. Mitchell Middle School: a Robotics Beginners program introducing building and coding fundamentals, and a Recreational Robotics League focused on team challenges and friendly competition. Together, these promote STEM engagement, problem-solving, and teamwork in Rancho Cordova.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Falkon Academy proposes to implement two structured VEX IQ Robotics programs at W.E. Mitchell Middle School serving up to 50 students in grades 4–8. The project includes (1) a Robotics Beginners Program focused on foundational STEM learning and (2) a Recreational Robotics League centered on collaborative team challenges and friendly in-class competition. Both programs aim to cultivate awareness, confidence, and long-term interest in technology and engineering within the Rancho Cordova community.

VEX IQ Robotics was selected as the instructional platform because it provides an accessible, hands-on entry point into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Using snap-together robotics components and age-appropriate coding software, students learn mechanical design, structural stability, gear systems, sensors, drivetrain concepts, and blockbased programming. Participants build functional robots, test improvements, solve design challenges, and apply coding logic to realworld scenarios. The goal is to demonstrate that technology is engaging, creative, and achievable—not intimidating.

The Robotics Beginners Program introduces core engineering principles through guided instruction and small-team collaboration. The Recreational Robotics League extends this learning through structured challenges and friendly competitions that emphasize teamwork, sportsmanship, strategic thinking, and iterative problem-solving. Unlike high-pressure travel competitions, the league format provides an inclusive, low-barrier environment where students can experience the excitement of robotics in a supportive setting.

The program will be offered on campus at W.E. Mitchell Middle School and will be open to students from neighboring Rancho Cordova schools to ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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increase community access. Each season will run two hours per week and will be divided into two segments to maintain engagement and improve attendance consistency:
• Fall Season (September–December): Recreational Robotics League • Spring Season (March–May): Robotics Beginners Program Falkon Academy has been successfully operating the VEX IQ Robotics program at W.E. Mitchell Middle School for several years, with steady growth in participation. During the most recent cycle, expanded outreach through Back-to-School Nights, Science Days, community events, and targeted social media resulted in interest from more than 70 students—exceeding available capacity. Due to staffing and space limitations, several students were placed on a waitlist. This demonstrated demand highlights the need for continued and expanded STEM programming in Rancho Cordova.

Falkon Academy hosted a final recreation league robotics competition at Mitchell Middle School that brought together students from Rancho Cordova, Folsom, and El Dorado Hills. The final competition showcase was attended by School Board Member YK Chalam, district leadership including Superintendent Eric Swanson, Principal Dr. Garcia, City Representative Lindsey Samples on behalf of Mayor Siri Pulipati, and numerous parents and community members. This strong regional participation and community presence reflect the program’s growing impact and credibility.

VEX Robotics, developed by Innovation First International, is a nationally recognized classroom robotics platform used in schools across the country, including within FCUSD. The VEX IQ system is specifically designed for elementary and middle school students, using durable plastic components and plug-and-play electronics that make engineering concepts approachable while maintaining academic rigor.

Falkon Academy, established in 2022, has served over 200 students in robotics programs. One team has qualified for the VEX World Championship, and four teams have advanced to the State Championship level. Programs are currently offered at Folsom Middle School, Marina Village Middle School, Pleasant Grove Middle School, and through partnerships with Folsom and Rocklin Parks & Recreation. Our mission is to bring high-quality STEM opportunities to local communities and inspire students to pursue future pathways in science and technology.

A central component of this project is equitable access. CEIF funding will reduce financial barriers and allow underserved youth to participate.

Funding will support:

1. Staff Compensation: Qualified instructors will provide structured curriculum delivery and supervision.

2. School Room Rental: Classroom and facility use to ensure a consistent learning environment.

3. Scholarships and Incentives: Students facing financial hardship may participate at no cost. Students who maintain at least 80% attendance will receive a $50 STEM Kit upon completion to reinforce commitment and continued hands-on learning beyond the program.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Through structured robotics instruction, collaborative challenges, and strong community engagement, this project will continue building technical skills, confidence, and sustained interest in STEM among Rancho Cordova youth while strengthening the city’s reputation as a growing hub for innovation and education.

Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Organization Name Falkon Academy
Some of the key members are:

Director/Coach Ashwin Thirunahari
Coach Maurice Velandia
Coach Cassandra Chen
Coach Ayesha
Coach Jason
Many other Volunteers.

Ashwin Thirunahari Ashwin Thirunahari has master’s in electrical engineering. And has patents on drone technology. Besides Robotics he taught Drone Programming, RC Airplanes, 3D CAD, 3D Printing and other programming classes.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Provide your
Project/Program
Goals

1. Increase STEM Awareness and Engagement
Enhance interest and confidence in STEM among 4th–8th grade students through hands-on robotics learning. Success will be measured by enrollment of up to 50 students, completion rates of at least 80%, and postprogram surveys indicating increased interest and confidence in STEM concepts.

2. Engage Underserved Students
Targeting underserved communities, we aim to bridge the education gap by providing access to STEM programs. Measurable outcomes include the number of students from underserved backgrounds participating in the VEX IQ Robotics program.

3. Encourage Parental Involvement
Strengthen parent engagement through outreach at school events, informational sessions, and competition showcase days. Success will be measured by parent attendance at program events, volunteer involvement, and parent feedback surveys.

4. Improve Program Retention and Consistency
Implement seasonal, two-hour weekly sessions to maintain student focus and sustained engagement. Success metrics include maintaining at least 80% average attendance and achieving high student satisfaction ratings through end-of-season feedback.

5. Expand Community Reach
Open enrollment to students from neighboring Rancho Cordova schools to broaden community participation. Success will be measured by participation from multiple schools and the number of new students joining the program each season.

Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

RANCHO_Proposal_Falkon_Mitchell_IQ_26_27.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.

Total project/program
cost*
11010
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
11010
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
6100
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
1010
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
3900
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

RANCHO_Proposal_RiverView_Enrichment_26_27_Budget_Only.pdf Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
No, not seeking any other funding support.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Please explain why
you are not seeking
any other funding
support for your
project/program.

Falkon Academy prioritizes keeping this program accessible and affordable for Rancho Cordova families. While we actively invest internal resources into curriculum development, equipment, and administrative coordination, after-school programs at a single school site typically do not generate sufficient revenue to fully cover staffing, facility rental, and scholarship costs—especially when equitable access is a priority.

We are not seeking additional overlapping grant funding for this specific program in order to maintain clarity, accountability, and alignment with CEIF’s community-focused objectives. CEIF support allows us to directly serve Rancho Cordova students without duplicating funding sources or creating administrative complexity.

Our goal is to ensure that funding provided through CEIF remains dedicated to local youth, supports scholarships, and sustains high-quality instruction at W.E. Mitchell Middle School. Continued partnership with CEIF enables us to responsibly scale and maintain this impactful community-based STEM initiative.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

NONE
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

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How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
2 How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
$20,000
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
8/10/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
5/15/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
August – September
Marketing to parents/kids at Mitchell Middle School and Williamson Elementary – through Parent nights. Build 5 teams. With 5 members each.

September
Start Recreation League Program.

January
Run Recreation league Competition. 1st program completes.

March
Start Beginners Program
April
Run in class competition and conclude the program.

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What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
One anticipated challenge is achieving sufficient enrollment. While interest has grown significantly in recent years, after-school programs can experience fluctuations in participation due to competing activities, transportation constraints, or family schedules. To address this, Falkon Academy will continue multi-channel outreach including flyers, school announcements, parent information nights, science events, and social media promotion. We will also work closely with school administration and counselors to identify students who would benefit from STEM enrichment. If enrollment is lower than expected, we will expand outreach to neighboring schools within Rancho Cordova and offer targeted scholarship placements to increase accessibility.

A second challenge is staffing availability. Because the program begins at 3:30 p.m. immediately after school dismissal, it can be difficult to secure qualified instructors who are available during those hours. To mitigate this, Falkon Academy maintains a roster of trained robotics instructors and assistant coaches who can rotate schedules as needed. We also recruit from local colleges and STEM graduates seeking part-time teaching experience. When necessary, we adjust instructor-to-student ratios while maintaining safety and instructional quality.

Through proactive recruitment strategies, flexible staffing models, and strong collaboration with school leadership, Falkon Academy is prepared to navigate these challenges and ensure successful implementation of the program.

How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
50 How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
50 4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Primary street
address of
project/program
W. E. Mitchell Middle School
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
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If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.

NONE
Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:

Folsom Cordova USD
Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District
school facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:

Mitchell Middle School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Yes
Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or
district(s) who are
familiar with your
project/program.

Dr. Sandra Garcia
Principal, W.E. Mitchell Middle School
Email: [email protected]
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Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Ashwin
Thirunahari
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Falkon Academy
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Director
Provide contact
phone number:

Provide contact
email:
[email protected]
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
Yes, I would be the one to sign the contract
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Project Name : W. E. Mitchell Middle VEX IQ Robotics Program Contact: Falkon Academy,
Director, Ashwin Thirunahari
Phone Number:

Expenses Outline:

Equipment Costs Cost
5 VEX IQ Competition Kit (one spare) ($650 each)
Paid through 2023-2024 Funding $0
1 VEX IQ Pitching Field.

Paid through 2023-2024 Funding $0
2 VEX IQ Brain and Remote replacements $510
2 VEX IQ Field Elements $200
Spare parts/Replacements $500
Mini Competition Costs $0
Total Cost of Equipment $1010
Note: The kits and the fields have been purchased in year 2023-2024. The Kits last around 3yrs.

Execution Costs Cost
Cost of Coaching: 2hrs a week
Three coaches and a manager.

One coach per 12kids.

Session 1 (Sep to Jan) $4600
Session 2 (Mar to May) $1500
School Room Rental for 150hrs payment to
FCUSD $800
Insurance and overhead $800
Marketing Costs (Flyers) $300
Incentives/Rewards for 80% attendance.
$40 each for 50kids $2000
Total cost of Execution $10,000
Total Cost of the program: $11,010
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CITY OF RANCHO CORDOVA
FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027 GRANT APPLICATION

COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT & INVESTMENT FUND
“Bring STEM Education to the community in need.”
Project Name : W. E. Mitchell Middle VEX IQ Robotics Program Contact: Falkon Academy
Director, Ashwin Thirunahari
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Project Synopsis:

Falkon Academy will provide a VEX IQ Robotics program for 4th–8th grade students at W.E. Mitchell Middle School, introductory instruction with a recreational robotics league.

Students will build, code, and compete while developing problem-solving, teamwork, and STEM skills, expanding access to engaging, hands-on learning opportunities in Rancho Cordova.

Falkon Academy will offer VEX IQ programs for 4th–8th grade students at W.E. Mitchell Middle School: a Robotics Beginners program introducing building and coding fundamentals, and a Recreational Robotics League focused on team challenges and friendly competition. Together, these promote STEM engagement, problem-solving, and teamwork in Rancho Cordova.

Project Description:

Falkon Academy proposes to implement two structured VEX IQ Robotics programs at W.E.

Mitchell Middle School serving up to 50 students in grades 4–8. The project includes (1) a Robotics Beginners Program focused on foundational STEM learning and (2) a Recreational Robotics League centered on collaborative team challenges and friendly inclass competition. Both programs aim to cultivate awareness, confidence, and long-term interest in technology and engineering within the Rancho Cordova community.

VEX IQ Robotics was selected as the instructional platform because it provides an accessible, hands-on entry point into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Using snap-together robotics components and age-appropriate coding software, students learn mechanical design, structural stability, gear systems, sensors, drivetrain concepts, and block-based programming. Participants build functional robots, test improvements, solve design challenges, and apply coding logic to real-world scenarios. The goal is to demonstrate that technology is engaging, creative, and achievable—not intimidating.

The program will be offered on campus at W.E. Mitchell Middle School and will be open to students from neighboring Rancho Cordova schools to increase community access. Each season will run two hours per week and will be divided into two segments to maintain engagement and improve attendance consistency:
• Fall Season (September–December): Recreational Robotics League • Spring Season (March–May): Robotics Beginners Program ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Falkon Academy has been successfully operating the VEX IQ Robotics program at W.E.

Mitchell Middle School for several years, with steady growth in participation. During the most recent cycle, expanded outreach through Back-to-School Nights, Science Days, community events, and targeted social media resulted in interest from more than 70 students—exceeding available capacity. Due to staffing and space limitations, several students were placed on a waitlist. This demonstrated demand highlights the need for continued and expanded STEM programming in Rancho Cordova.

Falkon Academy hosted a final recreation league robotics competition at Mitchell Middle School that brought together students from Rancho Cordova, Folsom, and El Dorado Hills.

The final competition showcase was attended by School Board Member YK Chalam, district leadership including Superintendent Eric Swanson, Principal Dr. Garcia, City Representative Lindsey Samples on behalf of Mayor Siri Pulipati, and numerous parents and community members. This strong regional participation and community presence reflect the program’s growing impact and credibility.

VEX Robotics, developed by Innovation First International, is a nationally recognized classroom robotics platform used in schools across the country, including within FCUSD.

The VEX IQ system is specifically designed for elementary and middle school students, using durable plastic components and plug-and-play electronics that make engineering concepts approachable while maintaining academic rigor.

Falkon Academy, established in 2022, has served over 200 students in robotics programs.

One team has qualified for the VEX World Championship, and four teams have advanced to the State Championship level. Programs are currently offered at Folsom Middle School, Marina Village Middle School, Pleasant Grove Middle School, and through partnerships with Folsom and Rocklin Parks & Recreation. Our mission is to bring high-quality STEM opportunities to local communities and inspire students to pursue future pathways in science and technology.

A central component of this project is equitable access. CEIF funding will reduce financial barriers and allow underserved youth to participate. Funding will support:

1. Staff Compensation: Qualified instructors will provide structured curriculum delivery and supervision.

2. School Room Rental: Classroom and facility use to ensure a consistent learning environment.

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Website : https://www.falkonacademy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/falkonacademy
Below is a description of VEX IQ kits:

VEX IQ is a snaptogether robotics system, making it fast and easy to build an endless variety of
robots. Watch code come alive on a
physical robot and apply key STEM skills.

Organized parts storage reduces
classroom clutter IQ Electronics are
Simple, Flexible and Powerful Students
can build and change their robots fast.

This is for kids from 4th grade to 7th
grade.

Falkon Robotics Project Team:

Organization Name Falkon Academy
Some of the key members are:

Director/Coach Ashwin Thirunahari
Coach Maurice Velandia
About Falkon Academy: Founded by Ashwin Thirunahari, has offered VEX IQ and VEX V5 Robotics classes in Folsom Middle School, Marina Village Middle School and Pleasant Grove Middle School. This organization has taught robotics to more than 200kids since yr 2022. We had representation from Mangini Ranch Elementary, Russell Ranch Elementary, Mather Heights Elementary, Lake Forest Elementary in this program.

Maurice Velandia has a degree in electrical engineering, and retired working as computer engineer. He has previously coached underwater robotics team and took them to worlds.

This year he coached kids at Mitchell Middle School and Rolling Hills Middle School.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Project Timeline:

August – September Marketing to parents/kids at Mitchell Middle School and Williamson Elementary –
through Parent nights.

Build 5 teams. With 5 members each.

September Start Recreation League across schools.

January Run league competition. 1
st program
completes.

March Start Beginners Program
April Run in class competition and conclude the
program.

Project Goals:

1. Increase STEM Awareness and Engagement
Enhance interest and confidence in STEM among 4th–8th grade students through hands-on robotics learning. Success will be measured by enrollment of up to 50 students, completion rates of at least 80%, and post-program surveys indicating increased interest and confidence in STEM concepts.

Metrics for Progress Measurement:

Enrollment Rates: Track the number of students enrolled in each session, comparing the enrollment figures between the two sessions.

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Student Retention: Monitor the number of students completing the program and returning for subsequent sessions, identifying any drop-offs and addressing reasons for discontinuation.

Participant Feedback: Gather feedback from both students and parents regarding their experience, satisfaction, and suggestions for improvement.

Expenses Outline:

Equipment Costs Cost
5 VEX IQ Competition Kit (one spare) ($650 each)
Paid through 2023-2024 Funding $0
1 VEX IQ Pitching Field.

Execution Costs Cost
Cost of Coaching: 2hrs a week
Three coaches and a manager.

One coach per 12kids.

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Is this a multiyear request? NO
How many years have you received funding for this project? 1 Do you plan to ask annually for funding?
Yes. To pay for the facilities and coaching.

What other funding will you seek to support your project? None Adaptability
Although Robotics Programs are better experienced at a central location in a classroom setting. But we can still run the programs virtually.

We can run Virtual Reality Robotics Programs. This is another great learning experience. This builds a different set of programming skills and is very innovative.

What challenges do you anticipate in your project/program's implementation? What is your plan to complete your project/program should those or other challenges arise?(required)
One anticipated challenge is achieving sufficient enrollment. While interest has grown significantly in recent years, after-school programs can experience fluctuations in participation due to competing activities, transportation constraints, or family schedules.

To address this, Falkon Academy will continue multi-channel outreach including flyers, school announcements, parent information nights, science events, and social media promotion. We will also work closely with school administration and counselors to identify students who would benefit from STEM enrichment. If enrollment is lower than expected, we will expand outreach to neighboring schools within Rancho Cordova and offer targeted scholarship placements to increase accessibility.

We also recruit from local colleges and STEM graduates seeking part-time teaching experience. When necessary, we adjust instructor-to-student ratios while maintaining safety and instructional quality.

Physical Address/School District
The program will be run at “W. E. Mitchell Middle School” in Rancho Cordova. We have already discussed the possibility of running this program with the principal.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Application Submitted by
Name: Ashwin Thirunahari
Title: Director
Organization’s Legal Name (if applicable): Falkon Academy Signatory (Same as above)
Signatory’s Name: Ashwin Thirunahari
Title: Director
Phone:

Email:

Mailing Address: 1992 Larkhall Cir. Folsom CA 95630
Closing Comments:

As outlined in this proposal, there is a growing need for accessible STEM programs such as robotics within our community. With rapid advancements in autonomous vehicles, robotics in agriculture, and artificial intelligence applications, exposure to technology and engineering concepts is more critical than ever. Preparing students for tomorrow’s workforce requires more than traditional classroom instruction—it requires hands-on, applied learning experiences.

However, high-quality technology programs come with significant costs, including specialized equipment and trained instructional staff. Without grant support, these opportunities can remain out of reach for many families, particularly those facing financial hardship.

CEIF funding plays a vital role in bridging this gap. By supporting this initiative, we can expand equitable access to robotics education, inspire innovation, and strengthen Rancho Cordova’s position as a forward-thinking community invested in preparing its youth for the future.

Together, we can build the next generation of problem-solvers, engineers, and technology leaders.

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Below are some of the pictures:

The Robotics class with
coach, Dr. Garcia –
Principal of Mitchell Middle
School , Siri Pulipati –
Rancho Cordova City
Mayor, Chris Clark FCUSD
Board Member – Parents
and all the wonderful
coaches and most
importantly the kids who
participated in the program
and competed.

On the competition day
with Mr. Eric Swanson
FCUSD Superintendent.

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NOTES:

Link used to apply:
https://accounts.submittable.com/u/login/identifier?state=hKFo2SBBLXFlaWpKTVhrU3Y3cVl JVEhaVm1tUENmeGlOb0Rzb6Fur3VuaXZlcnNhbC1sb2dpbqN0aWTZIFItbTkyZm4yc3phRkp0ZV ItSkhuWGxpWnBSWUFKZ2pwo2NpZNkgRmZpZ1l1TFp1VFVQdkNKQktxWlBOcHIzMzBtRk1lM3 M
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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City of Rancho Cordova Powered by Submittable
Title Project Optimism Mentoring
Sessions (POMS)
by Kyari Cail in Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Community
Enhancement & Investment Fund Grant
Application
2815 Gunn Road
Sacramento, California
95608
CA
United States
[email protected]
03/05/2026
id. 53393951
Original Submission 03/05/2026
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Yes: First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

Project Optimism Mentoring Sessions (POMS)
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Project Optimism (PO) will implement a culturally responsive mentorship and leadership development program that provides school-based mentoring and social-emotional learning enrichment activities for youth. The program strengthens identity, belonging, and leadership skills that support positive youth development and success coaching.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Project Optimism (PO) proposes to implement the Project Optimism Mentoring Sessions (POMS) program in partnership with Folsom Cordova Unified School District, specifically serving students at Cordova Villa Elementary and Cordova Meadows Elementary through a structured cohort-based model of 30 students per cohort per school (60 students total). This school-based mentorship and social-emotional learning initiative is designed to support at-promise youth through culturally responsive programming that strengthens belonging, positive identity, and academic engagement, while aligning with the City’s Community Enhancement & Investment priorities related to youth development, community well-being, and educational support.

The program also aligns with Folsom Cordova Unified School District’s vision of empowering students to thrive through educational excellence and its commitment to transformative social-emotional learning and culturally responsive instruction. Through this partnership, PO will deliver consistent, on-campus mentoring sessions, small-group social-emotional learning workshops, and youth listening sessions tailored to each cohort. Each school will host a cohort of 30 students, identified through nominations from school site personnel such as counselors, teachers, and administrators, ensuring that students who would most benefit from additional socialemotional and mentorship support are intentionally prioritized.

Programming is grounded in trauma-informed practices, the Search Institute’s Developmental Assets framework, and culturally affirming curriculum that reflects the lived experiences of the students served. Core workshop topics include sense of belonging, emotional regulation, peer relationships, confidence building, and leadership development. The need for these supports is significant. At Cordova Villa Elementary, 86.5% of students are socioeconomically disadvantaged and 33.9% are English ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Learners, while Cordova Meadows serves 89.3% socioeconomically disadvantaged students and nearly half of students are English Learners.

These demographics highlight the importance of culturally responsive mentorship and social-emotional supports that strengthen student engagement and well-being. While our signature program operates in a structured cohort model, PO also adapts services to meet broader campus needs. In collaboration with Folsom Cordova Unified staff, we will provide school-wide engagement opportunities such as lunch-time engagement, interactive workshops, Optimism Family Days, and other partner-requested activities that promote positive school climate and community connection.

This flexible approach allows the program to impact not only the 30-student cohorts at each school but also the wider student body and families through inclusive programming that reinforces social-emotional learning and belonging across the campus environment. These efforts support the district’s community school model, which emphasizes integrated student support, family engagement, collaborative leadership, and expanded learning opportunities.

This tailored service model benefits the community by providing intensive, relationship-centered support while also contributing to overall campus culture. Many students at these campuses experience social-emotional stressors, academic disengagement, and limited access to consistent mentorship. Serving 30 students per cohort per school allows PO to provide individualized attention, consistent mentor check-ins, and measurable progress tracking, while campus-wide engagements create safe spaces for peer connection, identity affirmation, and positive youth interaction.

A key component of the project is the intentional recruitment and training of culturally responsive mentors, including transitional-age young adults (ages 18–26) who receive professional development in youth development, facilitation, and leadership. These mentors serve as near-peer role models who reflect the identities and experiences of the students, strengthening relational trust and cultural relevance within the school environment.

PO will measure success through cohort attendance tracking, pre- and post-assessments, mentor observation logs, campus engagement participation data, and ongoing feedback from school staff. Expected outcomes include increased student sense of belonging, improved socialemotional competencies, stronger peer and mentor relationships, enhanced classroom engagement, and strengthened family-school-community connections.

Overall, this partnership with Folsom Cordova Unified represents a strategic, high-impact investment in youth development and community enhancement by strengthening school climate, expanding access to mentorship, and fostering positive outcomes for students, families, and the broader school community.

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Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
The project will be implemented by Project Optimism’s experienced youth development team. The Director of Youth Programs provides strategic oversight and program quality assurance. The Program Manager oversees implementation and coordination with Folsom Cordova Unified School District. Two Program Coordinators manage day-to-day operations at Cordova Villa and Cordova Meadows. Four Youth Mentor Leads facilitate curriculum delivery and student success coaching, while four trained After School Youth Mentors provide direct mentoring, individualized success coaching, small-group sessions, and campus engagement activities to ensure consistent, culturally responsive support for participating students.

Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Goal 1: Increase students’ sense of belonging and social-emotional competencies.

PO will serve two cohorts of 30 students (one per school) through consistent mentoring and SEL sessions. Progress will be measured through pre- and post-surveys, reflection journals, and attendance logs, with a target of at least a 20% increase in reported belonging and emotional skill growth.

Goal 2: Improve student engagement and positive school climate.

The program will provide weekly cohort sessions and frequent campuswide engagement activities. Metrics include participation rates and teacher/staff feedback, with a goal of 75% average attendance and increased positive classroom participation among cohort students.

Goal 3: Provide culturally responsive mentorship and individualized support.

Students will receive success coaching delivered by trained Youth Mentor Leads. Progress will be tracked through mentor observation logs, student goal trackers, and case notes to ensure tailored support and measurable developmental growth.

Goal 4: Maintain focused and high-quality program implementation.

The project team will remain focused through structured session plans, weekly staff check-ins, data tracking systems, and ongoing coordination with Folsom Cordova Unified staff. Continuous review of attendance, survey data, and partner feedback will guide program adjustments and ensure alignment with project goals and community needs.

Optional File Upload:

Provide any
additional records to
supplement your
program/project
application. Note:

Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading.
2 - Funding & Costs
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Total project/program
cost*
237893.50
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
157400.18
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
226013.50
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
10800
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
1080
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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PO_x_CEIF_-_POMS_Project_Budget.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.

Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.

Project Optimism has secured and continues to leverage multiple funding sources to support this program and ensure long-term sustainability.

Current funding includes state and city-level investments, such as Sierra Health Foundation – Elevate Youth California Standard Track 7, the City of Sacramento – Sacramento Children’s Fund, and California Volunteers – California Men’s Service Challenge. These investments support personnel, mentorship programming, and youth leadership development activities aligned with the proposed project.

In addition, aside from our Director of Operations who oversees all grant management and compliance, Project Optimism has recently retained a fund development consultant to support diversifying funding opportunities and strengthening long-term revenue strategies. As part of our 2030 Sustainability Plan, we are intentionally leveraging current state and city funding to pursue additional federal funding opportunities, positioning the organization for greater stability and expanded impact over the next several fiscal years.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

N/A
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

No
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Multiple Years
If requesting CEIF
grant funding for
multiple years,
please share how
many years?
3 ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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For requests
spanning multiple
years, share the
dollar amount
requested per year.

FY 2026–2027, $150,400.18
FY 2027–2028, $150,000
FY 2028-2029: $150,000
For
projects/programs
that span multiple
years, please
describe your
sustainability plan
and whether it is
viable as a single
year request.

PO’s sustainability plan focuses on diversifying funding sources and leveraging existing public and philanthropic investments to sustain programming over time. Current state and city-level funding supports core program infrastructure, while additional revenue is pursued through federal grants, private foundations, and local partnerships.

To strengthen these efforts, PO has designated staff with specific time and effort allocated toward sustainability and fund development activities, including grant management, partnership cultivation, and identifying new funding opportunities. This work is further supported by a fund development consultant who is helping guide diversification strategies as part of the organization’s 2030 Sustainability Plan.

While this project is designed to operate across multiple years to ensure continuity of services for students and school partners, the program is viable as a single-year request. If funded for one year, PO would implement the full program cycle while continuing to pursue complementary funding sources to sustain and expand services in subsequent years.

Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/30/2027
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Please describe your
project/program
schedule
The proposed program will operate on a 12-month schedule, beginning July 1, 2026 and concluding June 30, 2027, in partnership with Folsom Cordova Unified School District at Cordova Villa Elementary and Cordova Meadows Elementary.

During July–August 2026, the team will conduct planning, staff training, school coordination, and student cohort nominations in collaboration with school site personnel.

From September 2026 through May 2027, program implementation will begin with weekly cohort-based mentoring sessions (30 students per cohort per school), small-group social-emotional learning workshops, and ongoing mentor check-ins aligned with the academic calendar. Even further, services will include consistent success coaching, campus-wide engagements, an annual Family Experience, as well as progress monitoring through attendance tracking, surveys, and staff coordination meetings.

By June 2027, the project will conclude with final evaluations, data analysis, partner feedback collection, and a program reflection process to assess outcomes, sustainability, and future service alignment with district and community needs.

What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
Potential challenges include student attendance fluctuations, competing school priorities, and scheduling coordination with school staff. To mitigate this, PO maintains strong communication with school partners, adapts programming to site needs, and offers flexible engagement formats such as lunch sessions and workshops to ensure consistent participation and successful program delivery.

How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
300
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
60 4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Primary street
address of
project/program
2550 La Loma Dr
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
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If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.

Cordova Villa Elementary, 10359 S White Rock Rd, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Third Party Letters of Support (Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading) FCUSD_LOS_March_2026.pdf
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
Yes
Is the
project/program
requesting facility
use only or is this a
request to partner
with the school
district?
Partner with school on project/program
Please select all the
school districts which
your project/program
intends to involve:

Folsom Cordova USD
Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District
school facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:

Cordova Meadows Elementary School
Cordova Villa Elementary School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Yes
Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or
district(s) who are
familiar with your
project/program.

Carla Gaymon-Davis; [email protected];
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Kyari
Cail
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Project Optimsim
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Director of Operations
Provide contact
phone number:
+
Provide contact
email:
[email protected]
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
No, someone else would sign the contract
If selected by the
City Council to
receive an award,
what is the name of
the person at your
organization who
would sign the
contract?
Ishmael
Pruitt
What is the title of
this individual?
CEO
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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What is the best
phone number where
we could contact the
signatory?
+
What is the best
email address to
contact the
signatory?
[email protected]
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.

Internal Form
Score n/a
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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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City of Rancho Cordova Powered by Submittable
Title Culturally Relevant Book Give
Away
by Rigo Tovar in Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund
Grant Application
2901 K St. Suite 204
Sacramento, California
95816
United States
[email protected]
03/06/2026
id. 53403743
Original Submission 03/06/2026
Score n/a
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No: Not a First Time Applicant
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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

Culturally Relevant Book Give Away
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
This program will put (5) high-quality culturally relevant books into the hands and homes of 4,951 of Sacramento County’s most under resourced Tk-2nd grade students. CEIF funding would enable us to reach Abraham Lincoln, Cordova Meadows, Cordova Villa, and White Rock Elementary. This project delivers dimensional literacy impact.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
The Culturally Relevant Book Giveaway program may sound simple, but these bags of books are packed with tons of research. The City of Rancho Cordova CEIF funding will help us reach 1,034 kids in the Folsom Cordova and Sacramento City Unified School Districts. Each student will receive 5 brand new books that reflect their gender and ethnicity. We give kids Culturally Relevant books because mirrors (of oneself) and windows (into new worlds) are critical parts of developing a reader. By having kids see themselves in their stories, they can pull from their lived experiences to become faster and more confident readers. We give kids 5 books because 5 books is what a child needs to read to hold onto their previously achieved reading level. And finally, we want books in the kids’ homes because books in the home are as important to a child’s future educational attainment as their parents’ education and career level. Included in every bag is a parent handout, in English and Spanish, detailing the 6 pillars of literacy with tips on how parents can participate in their child’s literacy education. We align our work with the most current research and measure our results by the relationships we build and the data we gather from the California Literacy Map to make sure we are relevant to all our stakeholders
Our culturally relevant book giveaway program supports the literacy education of the children we reach. We reach the most under-resourced children because we know, often, they don’t have books in their home.

Abraham Lincoln, Cordova Meadows, Cordova Villa, and White Rock have the highest Title I rates in Rancho Cordova with an average of 90%. CEIF funding will help us reach the most under-resourced children in Rancho Cordova. Our program aligns with several of Rancho Cordova’s key focus areas including Arts and Culture, and Youth Program Services. Culturally Relevant books by BIPOC authors enrich the lives of the students (and families) that receive them. By supporting early readers to achieve literacy ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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proficiency we are directly enhancing education outcomes and, ultimately, economic development. When children cannot read, they grow up to be adults who cannot read and cannot fully participate in our democracy.

Sacramento was identified as the 2nd most diverse city in the 2020 census. Our Book Giveaway program is set in this context. Our work in matching the cultures of our communities to the books we give, is recognized by the families we impact and is core to our work. We ensure that every child sees themselves in their bag of books by using demographic data from the California Literacy Map and gender data provided by the school site. We have generated over 200 unique book curations to cater to the demographic and gender breakdowns of each school site we have served since 2021. Bilingual Spanish/English books are included in most curations and are based on the rate of the school sites Latine population. Simplified Chinese, Haitian Creole, and Filipino Sign Language are other bilingual titles we have included when copies are available. In each bag of books, we include information to help parents help their kids learn to read. We have learned that often parents see themselves for the first time in a book through this program. This increases parent engagement with the program and makes it more likely that these books will be utilized in the home. Reading is, without a doubt, the most critical equity skill a person can learn. Reading is agency. Because Sacramento is the most diverse city in America, and reading is the most critical equity skill that can be taught to these children, we work intentionally to include all voices at all levels.

Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
The Sacramento Literacy Foundation has 2 full time employees: 1.

Executive Director, April Javist, has a BA in Theater and an MBA in Finance, and has 33 years of experience growing youth programs. 2.

Program Manager Rigo Tovar, a former teacher, has a BA in Sociology, he has developed and curated this program for 2 years and has worked with under-resourced kids for 4 years, understanding their unique and diverse needs. Board and staff all believe literacy is the #1 equity skill.

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Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
At the Sacramento Literacy Foundation our mission is to help all children read at grade-level. Our book giveaway program, putting culturally relevant high-quality books in the hands and homes of our most under-resourced kids, is a concrete step in providing tools to our youngest and most vulnerable students and their parents. We have given out 125,000 books and we estimate that we have put a book in approximately 32% of the homes that previously had no books. Our goals with this program are: 1.

Putting books in homes. 2. Making sure that the students we reach receive a book where they are the protagonist. 3. Supporting kids to hold onto previously gained reading skills. Our goal is to get all kids’ reading! In our work, we are measuring the number of books we can put in kids’ hands and homes. We are measuring program expansion through partnerships, and we are measuring school site reading and chronic absenteeism rates detailed by our GIS mapping tool, the California Literacy Map. In our Book Giveaway program, we measure success by the number of kids reached and increasing and sustaining that number year-over-year.

We estimate that there are another 20,000 under-resourced homes that do not have books. Program sustainability relies on our ability to secure funds year-over-year to continue to support the schools we are already in.

Program expansion relies on our ability to build successful relationships with schools, parents, and funders. And finally, to expand we must build more relationships with individual and institutional funders who want to extend themselves into the early literacy space through their philanthropy.

This is why we are reapplying for CEIF funds this year. Our request in 2025 put us in 3 school sites in Rancho Cordova. We will be reaching those schools in April 2026 and would like to continue that support the following year while including 1 more high title 1 school.

Big picture, we use The California Literacy Map - a tool we created in 2016 to measure where kids were reading and where they were not reading. The map details literacy rates, chronic absenteeism rates and provides school site data that is useful to literacy providers, educators, policy makers and philanthropists. The map is available to the public and has experienced slow but increased use over time. In conclusion, we measure our success by increasing the number of books we can put in the homes of children who do not have them, coupled with increasing the relationships that are required to achieve those increases. We use the California Literacy map to both assess where we expand to and to measure increases and decreases in literacy rates at the school site, district, county and State level.

Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

SLF_Supplemental_Documents_2026.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
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Total project/program
cost*
285888
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
35563
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
1085
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
34478
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
0 Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

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CEIFBudgetSLFOrgBudget_2026.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.

Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.

We are seeking funding from donors and grantors who have previously funded the program.

The Sacramento Literacy Foundation’s raises funds from individual donors at our annual gala, Authors on the Move (SM), explicitly for this program.

We raise approximately $120,000 and have built donor base that believes in our mission and wants to get these books in these kids’ hands and homes.

Previous grantors of this program include Kelly Foundation, Sierra Health, Elk Grove Rotary, RCA Foundation, and the CEIF Grant 2025. We will go back to all of these folks for the 2026-2027 book giveaways.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

Yes
Please share the
total dollar amount
for volunteer/in-kind
support using $34.79
as the national rate
for a volunteer hour.

Source: Value of
Volunteer Time
3618
Please provide a worksheet explaining your volunteer/in-kind contribution. You may upload a file in the following formats: CSV, DOC, DOCX, or PDF.

CEIF2026_-_SLF-Volunteer-In-Kind-Breakout.pdf
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Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
Yes
How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
1 How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
$19,995
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
8/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
9/30/2026
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Please describe your
project/program
schedule
The entire project occurs between May and October of each year. We commence in May when we deliver books to Twin Rivers elementary schools. Beginning in August we deliver books to Sac City, Elk Grove, San Juan and Robla School Districts. The portion of this project being funded by CEIF will take place In August 2025 and the preliminary timeline for Abraham Lincoln and Cordova Meadows will be as follows:

May 2026/August 2026: Curate and purchase books for school sites in our Culturally Relevant Book Giveaway Program.
· September 2026 Deliver books to Abraham Lincoln Cordova Meadows, Cordova Villa, and White Rock Elementary during classroom visits.

What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
The biggest challenges our program could potentially face is the national tariffs on goods imported from China. More than 90% of children’s books are published in China. Previously children’s books were exempt from any tariffs but as of now, children’s books have been added to the list of items that will have a 10% tariff. We anticipated this in last year’s grant and adjusted the cost per book accordingly. We have adjusted the cost of books this year for inflation to avoid this problem the same way we did last year. We also anticipate that the supply of books we get now will be depleted for the same reasons.

Because the Foundation’s primary source of funding comes from private philanthropy, we have not had to rely on federal funding for programing although we are looking to local government grant opportunities to help expand this program. If local government grants, such as the CEIF are negatively impacted by federal cuts, then this will negatively impact our ability to expand the program.

In conclusion, as the cost of these books increases, we will have to increase our capacity to raise additional private funds or reduce the number of children that receive a bag of books
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
5985
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
898
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Primary street
address of
project/program
3324 Glenmoor Dr, Sacramento, CA 95827
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95827
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If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.

Cordova Meadows Elementary - 2550 La Loma Dr, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Cordova Villa Elementary - 10359 S White Rock Rd, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
White Rock Elementary - 10487 White Rock Rd, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Third Party Letters of Support (Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading) CEIF-SLFThirdPartyLettersofSupport.pdf
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
Yes
Is the
project/program
requesting facility
use only or is this a
request to partner
with the school
district?
Partner with school on project/program
Please select all the
school districts which
your project/program
intends to involve:

Sacramento City USD
Folsom Cordova USD
Please select one or
more of the
Sacramento City
Unified School
District school
facilities which your
project/program will
involve:

Abraham Lincoln Elementary School
Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District
school facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:

Cordova Meadows Elementary School
Cordova Villa Elementary School
White Rock Elementary School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Yes
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Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or
district(s) who are
familiar with your
project/program.

Abraham Lincoln - Anuja Ramil (Community School Specialist) [email protected]
Cordova Meadows - Veronica Pesavento (Community Schools Facilitator) [email protected]
Cordova Villa - Amber Carter (Principal) ( [email protected] White Rock - Derek Charlebois (Community Schools Facilitator) [email protected]
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Rigo
Tovar
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Sacramento Literacy Foundation
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Program Manager
Provide contact
phone number:
+
Provide contact
email:
[email protected]
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
No, someone else would sign the contract
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If selected by the
City Council to
receive an award,
what is the name of
the person at your
organization who
would sign the
contract?
April
Javist
What is the title of
this individual?
Executive Director
What is the best
phone number where
we could contact the
signatory?
+
What is the best
email address to
contact the
signatory?
[email protected]
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.

Internal Form
Score n/a
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City of Rancho Cordova Powered by Submittable
Title Culturally Relevant Book Give
Away
by Rigo Tovar in Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund
Grant Application
Average score: n/a
03/06/2026
id. 53403743
Reviewed by: enrique flores (Score: ) 03/13/2026
Which
organization(s) are
you completing this
form on behalf of?
(Select all that apply)
A school district
Which school district
are you completing
this form on behalf
of?
SCUSD
Which SCUSD
school facility
Abraham Lincoln Elementary School
For Abraham Lincoln
Elementary, the
school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
Notes providing
rationale
supports the literacy education of the children. We reach the most underresourced children because we know, often, they don’t have books in their home. Abraham Lincoln is a title 1 school with a very transient population, and it is important to get books into the hands of young students Organizations may
provide PDF or JPG
documentation
regarding their
endorsement.

Name of
Superintendent,
Manager, or
Designee completing
this form:
enrique flores
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Title of individual
completing this form
Instructional Assistant Superintendent
By checking here, I
verify that I have the
authority at my
organization to
provide an
endorsement.

True
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Reviewed by: Mina West (Score: ) 03/12/2026
Which
organization(s) are
you completing this
form on behalf of?
(Select all that apply)
A school district
Which school district
are you completing
this form on behalf
of?
FCUSD
Which FCUSD
school facility
White Rock Elementary School
Cordova Meadows School
Cordova Villa Elementary School
For Cordova
Meadows School,
the school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
Notes providing
rationale
This project supports early literacy development at Cordova Meadows Elementary by providing TK–2 students with high quality, culturally relevant books to take home and keep. Serving a school community with a high Title I population, the program addresses barriers to literacy by increasing access to books in the home and helping students see themselves reflected in the stories they read. Endorsing this initiative aligns with district and City priorities by strengthening foundational reading skills, increasing family engagement, and supporting long term academic success for under resourced students.

For Cordova Villa
Elementary, the
school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
Notes providing
rationale
At Cordova Villa Elementary School, the Culturally Relevant Book Give Away promotes literacy equity by placing new, culturally responsive books directly into students’ homes during the critical early learning years. By ensuring students receive books that reflect their identities and lived experiences, the program builds reading confidence, sustains early literacy gains, and encourages regular reading at home. This initiative supports district and City goals focused on early intervention, family partnership, and improved educational outcomes for high need student populations.

For White Rock
Elementary, the
school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
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Notes providing
rationale
This program supports White Rock Elementary students by expanding access to age appropriate, culturally relevant books for TK–2 learners in a community with significant economic need. Providing books for home use strengthens reading practice beyond the classroom and reinforces the connection between school and family literacy efforts. Endorsement of this initiative aligns with district and City priorities to close early literacy gaps, promote educational equity, and ensure students have the resources necessary to build strong reading foundations.

For Williamson
Elementary, the
school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
Organizations may
provide PDF or JPG
documentation
regarding their
endorsement.

Name of
Superintendent,
Manager, or
Designee completing
this form:

Mina West
Title of individual
completing this form
Administrative Assistant - Communications and Community Engagement By checking here, I
verify that I have the
authority at my
organization to
provide an
endorsement.

True
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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City of Rancho Cordova Powered by Submittable
Title Culturally Relevant Book Give
Away
by Rigo Tovar in Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund
Grant Application
Average score: n/a
03/06/2026
id. 53403743
Reviewed by: Mina West (Score: ) 03/19/2026
Which
organization(s) are
you completing this
form on behalf of?
(Select all that apply)
A school district
Which school district
are you completing
this form on behalf
of?
FCUSD
Which FCUSD
school facility
Cordova Villa Elementary School
Cordova Meadows School
White Rock Elementary School
For Cordova
Meadows School,
the school district's
acknowledgement is:

For Cordova Villa
Elementary, the
school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Notes providing
rationale
At Cordova Villa Elementary School, the Culturally Relevant Book Give Away promotes literacy equity by placing new, culturally responsive books directly into students’ homes during the critical early learning years. By ensuring students receive books that reflect their identities and lived experiences, the program builds reading confidence, sustains early literacy gains, and encourages regular reading at home. This initiative supports district and City goals focused on early intervention, family partnership, and improved educational outcomes for high need student populations.

For White Rock
Elementary, the
school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
Notes providing
rationale
This program supports White Rock Elementary students by expanding access to age appropriate, culturally relevant books for TK–2 learners in a community with significant economic need. Providing books for home use strengthens reading practice beyond the classroom and reinforces the connection between school and family literacy efforts. Endorsement of this initiative aligns with district and City priorities to close early literacy gaps, promote educational equity, and ensure students have the resources necessary to build strong reading foundations.

For Williamson
Elementary, the
school district's
acknowledgement is:

Endorsement given
Organizations may
provide PDF or JPG
documentation
regarding their
endorsement.

Name of
Superintendent,
Manager, or
Designee completing
this form:

True
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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Sacramento Literacy Foundation -Budget 2025-26
2025-26
Book
Giveaway
Book
Giveaway
Projected Budget
Breakout 2025-
26 Rancho
Cordova
Program Revenue
Books in Kids Hands and Homes 452,267 104,032 35,563
AOM Fund-A-Need (Books in Kids Hands) 140,000 140,000
CLE Distributions Release/Summer Reading 40,000
Community Literacy Map 33,000
Literacy Summit
Other - - -
Total Progam Revenue 665,267 244,032 35,563
Operations Revenue
Direct Mail Giving
Annual Giving (4420) 60,000 21,856
YE Appeal (4450) 45,000
Newsletter (4430) 30,000
Literacy Map - -
Sub Total Direct Mail 135,000 21,856
Special Event
Authors 140,000
Literacy Summit 15,000
BigDOG 40,000
Sub Total Special Events 195,000
General Unrestricted
Board Contributions
Bequests & Planned Giving
Management Fee Income 10,000
Operations Grants 20,000
Operations Endowment Income 20,000 20,000 6,011
Walk4Literacy Earned Revenue
Planned Giving 120,000 - -
Sub Total General Unrestricted 170,000 20,000 6,011
Total Operations Revenue 500,000 41,856 6,011
Total Revenue 1,365,267 285,888 41,574
Program Expenses
Books in Kids homes 450,000 239,059 34,429
Literacy Map 50,000
Authors on the Move 75,000
Literacy Summit 15,000
Summer Reading CLE Endowment Distribution 40,000 - -
Total Foundation Program Expenses 630,000 239,059 34,429 Administrative Expense
Total Payroll and Benefits 318,000 46,829 6,645
Total Office 44,000 500
Total Staff and Board 10,000
Total Insurance - Legal - Audit 55,000 - -
Total Administrative Expense 427,000 46,829 7,145
Total Fund Development Expenses 81,000 - -
TOTAL OPERATIONS (Admin + Fund Dev) 508,000 46,829 7,145 TOTAL OPERATIONS & PROGRAM 1,138,000 285,888 41,574
SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) 227,267 0 (0)

NET INVESTMENT REVENUE

NET INCOME
SLF 2024-2025 OrganizationBudget/ProgramtBudget/WellSpaceProjectBudget

CONFIDENTIAL
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March 5, 2026
Dear CEIF Committee,
I am writing to express Cordova Meadows Elementary School’s enthusiastic endorsement of the Sacramento Literacy Foundation. We would want the funding for the culturally relevant books for our TK-2nd grade students to continue for next years students. I have connected with the foundation and believe this book giveaway program will provide our students with valuable literacy tools to assist in better reading outcomes. The development of effective reading skills will empower our students to be successful in life and be transformational for the community of Rancho Cordova.

Providing students with culturally relevant reading materials is becoming increasingly difficult, especially in communities where educational resources are limited. I believe these books will allow our students to see themselves in their stories, making it more likely that they will read them.

Our school is supportive of the Sacramento Literacy Foundation’s mission to promote literacy. We hope that this funding will lead to a partnership with them in the future.

Sincerely,
Veronica Pesavento
Community Schools Facilitator
[email protected]
(916)294-9120 ext. 615603
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City of Rancho Cordova Powered by Submittable
Title Capital Airshow Group: Fueling
Futures Through Aviation-Based
Educational Programming
by Marya Sahota in Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund
Grant Application
10425 Norden Ave
Mather, California
95655
United States
[email protected]
03/09/2026
id. 53435082
Original Submission 03/09/2026
Score n/a
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No: Not a First Time Applicant
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Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.

Capital Airshow Group: Fueling Futures Through Aviation-Based Educational Programming
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Youth Programs & Services
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Through immersive aviation and aerospace STEM programming, Rancho Cordova youth - particularly those from Title I and underserved communities -gain hands-on experience, industry mentorship, and exposure to high-wage career pathways. Fueling Futures builds workforce readiness, strengthens confidence, and connects classroom learning to real opportunities within our region’s growing aerospace economy.

Provide a
Project/Program
Description
The proposed project, Fueling Futures Through Aviation, expands hands-on aviation and aerospace education for Rancho Cordova youth through immersive, real-world STEM experiences led by the Capital Airshow Group.

The program connects students—particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and Title I schools—to high-demand career pathways through direct exposure, mentorship, and applied learning opportunities that are otherwise inaccessible to many families.

Students participate in interactive workshops, drone flight activities, mentorship sessions with aviation and aerospace professionals, and behind-the-scenes experiences that bring STEM to life beyond the classroom. Rather than learning abstract concepts alone, participants engage directly with aircraft, equipment, and industry experts, helping them understand how classroom skills translate into real careers. These experiences build confidence, spark curiosity, and increase awareness of viable local workforce pathways.

This project aligns closely with the City’s Community Enhancement & Investment Fund priorities by strengthening youth development, supporting workforce readiness, and contributing to long-term economic vitality.

Rancho Cordova is home to a growing base of aerospace, technology, and skilled-trade employers who rely on a qualified local workforce. Yet many young people—especially those from under-resourced neighborhoods— lack access to career exploration, mentorship, or enrichment experiences that prepare them to enter these fields. This gap limits both individual opportunity and the region’s talent pipeline.

Fueling Futures addresses this need directly by connecting Rancho Cordova students with real industry professionals and hands-on experiences that increase STEM interest, career awareness, and ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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postsecondary readiness. By introducing youth early to aviation and technical careers, the program helps cultivate the next generation of pilots, mechanics, engineers, technicians, and air traffic controllers—fields that offer family-sustaining wages and long-term stability.

Beyond student impact, the program provides meaningful community benefit through partnership and economic activity. The Capital Airshow Group’s annual event and related educational programming generate an estimated $10.7 million in regional economic impact, drawing visitors, supporting local businesses, and elevating Rancho Cordova as a hub for aviation and STEM engagement. Educational initiatives extend this benefit year-round, creating sustained connections between schools, employers, volunteers, and families. The program leverages hundreds of community volunteers and industry partners who contribute mentorship, equipment, and expertise, maximizing public investment while deepening civic engagement.

Importantly, the project is designed to reduce barriers to participation.

Many of the students served face financial or transportation limitations that prevent them from accessing enrichment opportunities. By partnering directly with schools and community organizations, we deliver programming where students already are and provide low- or no-cost participation to ensure equitable access. This approach ensures that opportunity is not reserved for those who can afford it, but for those who need it most.

Success will be measured through student participation numbers, demographic reach, increases in STEM interest and career awareness, and feedback from educators and caregivers. The program’s ultimate goal is measurable growth in confidence, aspiration, and readiness—equipping Rancho Cordova youth with the skills and exposure needed to pursue meaningful futures within their own community.

By investing in Fueling Futures Through Aviation, the City is not only supporting an educational program—it is investing in workforce development, economic resilience, and the long-term success of its young residents. This project transforms curiosity into capability and creates a clear bridge between today’s students and tomorrow’s careers, strengthening both individual lives and the broader Rancho Cordova community. By cultivating local talent, this initiative supports Rancho Cordova employers and reduces long-term workforce shortages within the City’s economic base.

Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Fueling Futures Through Aviation is developed and delivered by the Capital Airshow Group in collaboration with experienced staff, educators, and industry professionals. Our team brings deep expertise in youth programming, grant management, volunteer coordination, and community engagement, supported by strong operational systems and fiscal oversight.

Local schools and community partners help identify and serve students, while pilots, mechanics, air traffic controllers, engineers, and STEM mentors provide hands-on instruction and real-world career exposure. This collaborative, community-based model ensures high-quality delivery, responsible stewardship, and the capacity to effectively serve Rancho Cordova youth at scale.

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Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Fueling Futures Through Aviation is guided by clear, measurable goals focused on access, engagement, and workforce readiness for Rancho Cordova youth.

Goal 1: Expand equitable access to hands-on STEM and aviation experiences.

Metrics: Number of students served; number of Rancho Cordova schools and partners engaged; percentage of participants from Title I and economically disadvantaged backgrounds; number of program sessions delivered.

Goal 2: Increase student interest, confidence, and awareness of STEM and aviation career pathways.

Metrics: Pre- and post-program surveys measuring changes in STEM interest, career knowledge, and self-confidence; participation in mentorship and hands-on activities; educator feedback on student engagement. At least 60% of participants will report increased awareness of aviation career pathways.

Goal 3: Strengthen connections between youth and local workforce opportunities.

Metrics: Number of industry volunteers and mentors engaged; hours of direct mentorship provided; student exposure to career pathways and technical skills; follow-up indicators of continued STEM coursework or related activities.

Project focus and continuous improvement are supported through structured planning, regular team check-ins, and ongoing data review. In addition, we are currently conducting a community needs assessment with students, educators, and partners to better understand barriers to access and priority needs. Findings directly inform program design, target populations, and resource allocation to ensure programming remains responsive, equitable, and aligned with what Rancho Cordova youth need most.

Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

RFP_Fueling_Futures_Through_Aviation_Education_March_2026.pdf 2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.

Total project/program
cost*
275000
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What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
75000
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
14000
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
37000
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
24000
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
0 Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.

CityofRCProjectBudgetForm_CAG_3.2.26.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.

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Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.

Pending funding via the Sacramento County TOT grant, the Wilkie Foundation, Jet Blue Foundation. Actively applying to all applicable grants.

Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.

The Airshow’s youth education and workforce development programs are ongoing annual initiatives that are incorporated into our regular operating structure. Beyond FY 2026/2027, costs primarily include staffing coordination, curriculum materials, volunteer management, insurance, and event delivery expenses.

These costs are sustained through a diversified funding strategy that includes sponsorships, foundation and corporate grants, individual donors, ticketed event revenue, and long-standing community partnerships. The organization has successfully operated and funded these programs for multiple years and does not rely on a single source of support.

Grant funding from the Rancho Cordova Community Impact program would enhance and expand access, but core operations will continue regardless.

The organization maintains reserve funds and diversified revenue streams to ensure programming continuity regardless of individual grant outcomes, reinforcing long-term sustainability and fiscal responsibility.

Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.

No
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
Yes
How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
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How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
In prior CEIF-funded years, the organization successfully met all deliverables and reporting requirements. We
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/30/2027
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Please describe your
project/program
schedule
Project Timeline (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)
The grant period will begin July 1, 2026, with program launch activities, final curriculum refinement, and integration of findings from our community needs assessment to ensure programming is responsive to Rancho Cordova students and educators.

July–August 2026:
• Implementation of a large-scale Youth STEM Expo serving 1,500+ youth through hands-on aviation and STEM experiences
• Delivery of the Positive Altitude program, providing confidence-building and career exploration opportunities for participating students • Volunteer training and partnership coordination
• Data collection and participant surveys
September–December 2026:
• Implementation of the Youth STEM Zone at the California Capital Airshow, providing thousands of students with immersive, hands-on aviation learning experiences
• Direct engagement with pilots, mechanics, engineers, and aviation professionals
• On-site evaluation and community engagement activities January–May 2027:
• School and community-based outreach and aviation career exploration programming
• Planning, curriculum development, and student recruitment for ACE Academy
• Targeted outreach to underserved and economically disadvantaged youth • Mid-year evaluation and program refinement
June 2027:
• Implementation of the ACE Academy 5-Day Summer Camp, delivering intensive, project-based aviation and STEM learning
• Post-program evaluation and final impact reporting
The project concludes June 30, 2027, with final grant reporting, financial reconciliation, and strategic planning for sustained program expansion.

What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
Potential challenges include aligning school calendars, coordinating transportation for students from underserved neighborhoods, volunteer availability during peak industry periods, weather impacts on outdoor programming, and fluctuations in funding.

To mitigate these risks, we conduct early coordination with school districts and community partners, maintain a trained reserve pool of volunteers, diversify funding streams, and design programming that can pivot between indoor and outdoor formats as needed.

As a long-standing annual program with established operational systems, the Capital Airshow Group has successfully navigated these variables in prior years and maintains contingency plans to ensure consistent, highquality program delivery regardless of logistical or environmental disruptions.

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How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
3500
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
2000
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4

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School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.

Primary street
address of
project/program
10425 Norden Ave
List the city location
of the
project/program.

Mather, CA
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95655
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Rancho Cordova City CouncilApril 28, 2026

Rancho Cordova City Council
April 28, 2026