Hilliard families could gain access to a pre-K program that has been limited to Columbus city residents if Franklin County commissioners approve a transfer of the Early Start Columbus program at a special 9 a.m. meeting Aug. 18.
The three commissioners, board President John O'Grady, Kevin L. Boyce and Erica C. Crawley, called the special session at 369 S. High St. in Columbus to consider two resolutions. No other business is on the agenda.
Resolution No. 0557-26 would authorize an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Columbus to transfer administration of Early Start Columbus to Franklin County. The resolution also contemplates funding and contracts with Ohio State University, United Way of Central Ohio and the assignment of existing provider contracts.
Resolution No. 0558-26 would separately authorize a contract with Ohio State University for ongoing early education screening through OSU's Ready 4 Success program. That program, run through OSU's Schoenbaum Family Center, provides coaching and professional development for teachers at early childhood programs to help children meet kindergarten readiness goals.
The stakes are clear. According to the Schoenbaum Family Center, only 40% of children in Franklin County demonstrate readiness for kindergarten.
What it means for Hilliard
Early Start Columbus currently operates under city of Columbus administration. Though the agenda does not specify which communities would be added, Hilliard sits within Franklin County but outside Columbus city limits, meaning families here could become eligible for a program that was previously limited to city residents.
The timing is notable: Hilliard City Schools' first day for the 2026-2027 school year is Aug. 19, the day after the commissioners' vote.
How to watch or attend
The special meeting is open to the public at the Commissioners' Hearing Room in the Michael J. Dorrian Building, 369 S. High St., main lobby. Residents can also watch via Zoom by registering at bit.ly/FranklinCountyBOC.
The vote outcome was not available at publication. The Hilliard Herald will report the result.
