Kids Factory FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kids Factory?

Kids Factory is a drop-in after school program offering crafts, games, sports, special event days, and other recreational activities. It is not designed as a child-care program. Kids Factory had been funded by the City of Lake Forest and run by Saddleback Valley Unified School District (SVUSD) Community Services staff. 

Kids Factory, designed for children entering grades K-6, operated until 4/ 4:30 p.m. (depending on school location) on school days. The program pre-dated the City’s incorporation, when SVUSD offered a variety of recreation programs.

What role does Saddleback Valley Unified play in the program?

Saddleback Valley Unified acts as a contractor for the City. The District hosts the programs at its campuses and coordinated program registration. The City pays all SVUSD costs, including staffing, site cell phones, trainings, supplies, mileage, and administrative fees. 

How many Lake Forest children are expected to participate in Kids Factory for the 21-22 school year.?

In 2021-2022 school year, 400 students are expected to participated in Kids Factory on eight SVUSD elementary school campuses in Lake Forest. 

How much does Kids Factory cost annually? 

SVUSD estimated the FY 2020-21 Kids Factory program would cost $485,977. 

How is the fee set? 

The fee is set to recover a majority of costs. 

What are other options for parents who need after-school care?

• The Learning Connection (TLC) is an accredited after-school program available with SVUSD. The program is $395 a month for five days a week, from dismissal to 6 p.m.  
• The City Council in 2019-20 approved a pilot program with The Boys and Girls Club to provide an after-school, pop-up club at El Toro Park. The program will continue an additional year and can accommodate the same age group. The Club’s initial proposal received significant support from Lake Forest parents. 
• Tutor Time, the YMCA, Daycare Lake Forest, and several other private organizations/individuals in the City also provide after-school daycare programs.

What other support does the City provide to youth programs?

Overall, the Community Services’ Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget is more than $3.2 million. Some highlights include:

• $539,200 for Skatepark staffing, maintenance, and events.
• $138,000 for Teen programs, classes, and youth sports at the Sports Park & Rec Center (not including staff costs).
• $263,700 for Community programs and special events (not including staff costs).

What other support does the City provide Saddleback Valley Unified School District?

The City’s Fiscal Year 2021-22 Budget includes the following services that are funded by many school districts throughout the state and other financial support for SVUSD programs:

• $363,000 – Crossing guard services
• $286,000 – School Resource Officer (SRO)

How does the City support recreation for the community at large? 

The Fiscal Year 2021-22 Budget identifies more than $3.7 million for park maintenance and repairs, including:

• $1.4 million for park maintenance and amenities
• $2.3 million for maintenance of sports fields throughout the City