The latest from the YES campaign

Prop 2 will help make the most urgent repairs and upgrades needed to battle extreme heat

Sacramento, CA - California students are back in the classroom this week, just as  a massive heat wave threatens to disrupt the school year.

For too long, California’s local public schools have gone without essential repairs and upgrades and students suffer the consequences. Many schools were built over 70 years ago and 38% of children attend schools that don’t meet minimum standards where they are exposed to dangers like asbestos, mold, unsafe drinking water, and extreme heat. 

Prop 2 will make the most urgent repairs and upgrades in our local public schools by authorizing a $10 billion investment – without raising any taxes or fees – to make sure our students are safe and ready to learn.

With severe heat advisories in dozens of counties across California over the next several days, lack of adequate air conditioning and HVAC systems can pose a serious threat. 

“For decades, too many of our schools have gone without the necessary electrical updates and air conditioned spaces to combat excessive heat,” said David Goldberg, President, California Teachers Association. “Prop 2 will provide schools with properly equipped facilities that will help keep their learning environment safe for our students and educators. With temperatures expected to soar in the 100s across Southern California, and hotter Septembers on the horizon, the time to act is now.” 

Recent data from Climate Central states that, “Keeping schools cool is a growing challenge as our climate warms and many places experience hotter summers and shoulder seasons,” and that, “Access to cooling is critical to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of students and school staff.” 

“While the extreme heat guidance from the California Department of Public Health provides useful tips on how schools and students can combat high temperatures, the reality is that many of the suggestions are not practical for schools that were built decades ago and lack shade,” said Dr. Edgar Zazueta, Executive Director, Association of California School Administrators. “We need Prop 2 to make essential upgrades that keep our kids cool during these extreme weather events.” 

Contact: Molly Weedn
Press@YesonProp2.com