ALSD School Board Approves Bond Measure for November Election

The Alta Loma School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously (5-0) at their July 27 meeting to place a $58 million bond measure on the November ballot that would improve educational facilities, increase student safety and security, update instructional technology and repair deteriorating infrastructure.

“Some Alta Loma School District schools are now more than 50 years old and need to be brought up to the same standards as newer schools,” said Board President Caryn Payzant. “School roofs are showing the need for replacement, outdated electrical systems will not support current technology standards and portable classrooms need to be replaced with permanent buildings. Simply put, our schools need to be modernized and upgraded to meet current academic and safety standards.”

The proposed funding would renovate all 10 schools in the Alta Loma School District, which was founded in 1884. It also will bring new technology and appropriate furniture to the district’s schools.

“Great schools improve the quality of life in our community and protect the value of our homes,” Payzant said. “We are proud to have a reputation for strong student achievement, as is evidenced by our many California Distinguished School and Blue Ribbon School awards.”

Specifically, the bond money would be used to repair or replace deteriorating roofs, plumbing, electrical and air-conditioning systems where needed. It would be used to improve access and educational facilities for students with disabilities and special medical needs.

Increased student safety is also one of the bond’s priorities, with the addition of campus security systems, security lighting, security cameras, fencing, emergency communications systems, smoke detectors, fire alarms and sprinklers. Funding also will be designated for instructional technology in the classroom for improved student learning in core subjects like reading, math, science, technology and the arts.

“If successful, this measure also will make the district eligible for millions of dollars in state matching funds that would otherwise go to other communities, if a separate statewide bond measure slated for November also passes,” said Payzant

By law, the measure would be no more than $30 per $100,000 in assessed (not market) home value annually, or an average of around $98 per year for the typical homeowner living within ALSD boundaries. All money raised by this measure would be mandated by law to support the educational needs of the Alta Loma School District and cannot be taken away by the state of California or other entities. A citizens oversight committee and independent audits will be required to ensure all funds are spent properly.

A list of the district’s proposed improvements will be available at a website to be developed independent from the school district. For more information, contact Daina Shaffer at (909) 484-5151, ext. 2003 or dshaffer@alsd.k12.ca.us.