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Published on 10/12/1998 All articles from this issue

Yes on Measure H, LASD school bond

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Editorial

Some months back, we opined that the Los Altos School District should get its bond measure on the ballot sooner than later because the economy was going well. A delay to next year, we said, and a bond election could be held under less favorable circumstances.

The district did go forward with a November election, but the economy did not wait until next year to take a turn for the worse. Still, unlike some stocks on Wall Street, Measure H, the district's $94.7 million plan to fix dilapidated schools, is well worth the investment.

We're as concerned as anybody when it comes to asking for taxpayers to shell out even more money than they already are. So let us assure you, we approached this initiative with a skeptical eye: Is $94.7 million a reasonable amount, considering we have nine schools with a total enrollment of 3,780? Would it adequately address the problems at the district's nine campuses and not ask for more than what was needed? Would the district be held publicly accountable to the plan? Yes, yes and yes.

We've read the literature, talked to district officials and attended open houses held at the campuses last week to see for ourselves. So now we can tell you, more than ever, that the bond measure is sorely needed.

The facilities, behind the nice paint jobs and well-kept lawns, are, quite frankly, a mess. The 30-50 year old buildings have poor heating, leaky roofs, bad electrical wiring and plumbing, and are not up to earthquake standards. The poor performance of the buildings is an odd juxtaposition to the high academic achievements that have made the district one of the nation's best.

Some argue that the district already is getting lots of help, through its foundation, its PTAs and its ongoing parcel tax. But these funding sources all go for academic programs. There is limited funding for building maintenance and improvements, and no funding for new construction - unless the bond measure is approved.

The district is growing - more than 700 new students are expected by the year 2008. Portable classrooms are clogging the playgrounds. The bond could address these problems.

All homeowners in the district also stand to benefit by way of continually increasing property values. So from both education and personal standpoints, the bond measure is beneficial. A yes vote helps us all.