The latest from the YES campaign
The latest from the YES campaign
The latest from the YES campaign
Sacramento - California newspapers are urging voters to support Proposition 2. From the biggest outlets in the state to community newspapers, the consensus is clear - schools are in need of essential upgrades and Proposition 2 is the answer. Here’s what they’re saying:
“Voters should support this well-crafted measure to invest in California schools. It would modernize classrooms and campuses, many of which have gone for so long without upgrades and repairs that they could charitably be called neglected, if not run-down,” says the Los Angeles Times.
The Bakersfield Californian urges that now is the time, saying that, “Propositions 2 and 4 address present needs. To wait for the sudden appearance of a pot of gold would be fiscally and morally irresponsible.”
A detailed approach to why Prop 2 is good for equitable distribution of funding earned the San Francisco Chronicle’s endorsement as they opined, “Thankfully, Prop 2 contains key provisions to more equitably distribute funds.
First, it requires up to 10% of both new construction and modernization funds to go to small school districts — those with fewer than 2,501 students, which, according to a UC Berkeley report, account for about 6% of the state’s enrollment.
Second, it ensures small districts will receive technical assistance from the state to navigate the complex process to secure these funds.
Third, it increases the state’s cost-share of new construction and modernization projects for certain disadvantaged districts.
And fourth, it allows districts unable to raise at least $15 million from local bonds — up from the current $5 million cap — to apply for additional state funding.”
The San Mateo Daily Journal says, “With so many public schools needing assistance meeting new facilities standards and guidelines, this money is needed to keep up with the times and provide a solid foundation for our children’s future.”
“The Sentinel Editorial Board recommends a Yes vote on Prop. 2 because children in California deserve school facilities that are in good repair. Providing no funding would hurt all students,” said The Santa Cruz Sentinel.
The Sacramento Bee says, “Fortunately, Prop. 2 meets a sensible package of needs that will keep the school financing system afloat for a few important years.”
Other endorsements include:
Prop 2 provides funding for:
Safe drinking water for students
The removal asbestos, mold and lead paint
The repair of deteriorating sewer, gas and electrical lines
The rebuilding of schools immediately that were destroyed by wildfires, floods or other natural disasters
Protecting students from extreme heat at schools
Upgrades to science, technology, engineering and math classrooms and labs to help meet the needs 21st century learning and job training
Expansion of technical and vocational schools that provide affordable options for students and veterans to gain the skills needed for good paying jobs in a competitive global economy