Episode Details

## Short Segments ## Feature Story In Suisun City, a vibrant transformation is taking place on a 40-foot school bus, marking a unique celebration of Juneteenth and community spirit. This isn't just any bus; it's Wee Count, a mobile preschool dedicated to bringing early education to disadvantaged youth in Solano County. For the entire week of Juneteenth, Gail Byrdsong and her granddaughter have been tirelessly painting the bus in the parking lot of the Solano Yacht Club. Their canvas is a classic 1993 Carpenter school bus, and their mission is to create a moving piece of art that symbolizes hope and education. Wee Count was founded by Cynthia Allen, a retired teacher from Vallejo, who envisioned a preschool that could reach children wherever they are. After retiring in 2018, Allen purchased the bus and obtained her Class B driver's license, transforming the vehicle into a pop-up classroom that parks at various locations, thanks to a contract with the Greater Vallejo Recreation District. Byrdsong, clad in paint-spattered overalls, has been a constant presence, painting scenes of children under a tree in hues of gold, brown, and blue. Her work is not just about art; it's about community engagement. Each day, family members and passersby stop to contribute their own brushstrokes, turning the project into a collective effort. This weekend, Suisun City will host its Juneteenth celebration on the waterfront, and Byrdsong anticipates a surge of young artists eager to add their touch to the mural. The event promises to be a lively gathering, with the bus serving as both a centerpiece and a symbol of educational outreach. Wee Count's mission is to provide early education to children who might otherwise miss out on preschool experiences. By bringing the classroom to parks and camps, Allen ensures that learning is accessible and engaging. The bus is more than a vehicle; it's a beacon of opportunity for young minds. As the Juneteenth festivities unfold, the Wee Count bus stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of education. It's a reminder that learning can happen anywhere, and that sometimes, the most impactful classrooms are those that come to you. So, if you find yourself in Suisun City this weekend, take a moment to visit the waterfront and witness the transformation of the Wee Count bus. It's a celebration of art, education, and community that you won't want to miss.