CAMPAIGN FOR EXCELLENCE
in Palo Alto Public Schools

Measure A Ballot Language

 

Home
Measure A Q&A
How to Vote
Senior Exemptions
Campaign Literature
Measure A Position Papers
Press, News & Letters
Make a Donation
Be a Measure A Volunteer!
Endorsements
Measure A Background
Measure A Ballot Language
Vote Yes on A Committee
Calendar

The Measure A Ballot Language …

To preserve small class sizes; maintain educational programs that enhance student achievement; and restore some essential educational programs – including elementary literacy, math and art support, and middle and high school class offerings – shall the Palo Alto Unified School District replace its current parcel tax with a $493 yearly assessment for six years with an optional exemption for senior citizens and an independent oversight committee?

Argument In Favor of Measure A
Election Day: June 7, 2005

Community leaders agree: our Palo Alto Unified School District is threatened.  Without Measure A, deep cuts are unavoidable, including: as many as 100 teacher layoffs, increased class sizes, limited course offerings, and the possible closure of an elementary school.

Since 2003 PAUSD has made over $6.5 million in cuts to educational programs.   

Four major factors contributed to this crisis: 

bullet

For years PAUSD received more than $1.2 million each year in “Basic Aid” funds from the State. Starting in 2003 the State took away these funds. 

bullet

 PAUSD does not receive additional funding when additional students enroll. In three years, PAUSD has grown by 594 students.  PAUSD is expected to grow by over 900 students over the next five years.

bullet

The district’s costs for healthcare benefits, insurance and utilities have increased sharply.  When revenues increase slower than expenses, educational programs must be curtailed to cover increasing costs.

bullet

Seventy percent of PAUSD’s funding comes from local property taxes. Commercial property values have declined significantly.  While residential property values have increased, total property tax revenues have not kept pace with the cost of operating schools and educating children. 

Without Measure A, PAUSD will lose an additional $5.5 million each year when the existing parcel tax automatically expires next year.  Deep cuts to teachers and core academic programs will be necessary.

With Measure A, PAUSD will have $9.3 million each year to avoid teacher layoffs; prevent significant increases in class sizes; and restore critical cuts to instructional programs including: secondary class offerings; elementary literacy, math and art programs; counseling services; and instructional materials.  No funds will pay for central administration or salary increases.

Seniors are eligible for an optional exemption.  Mandatory annual audits and an independent oversight committee will ensure funds are properly spent.

For our schools and our community, please vote Yes on Measure A.

 

[ Back ] [ Home ] [ Next ]

Send mail to webmaster@campaignforexcellence.org with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 06/06/05