Argument for Measure A

We understand these are difficult times. The pandemic has impacted our families, students, teachers, staff, and local businesses. When our students and staff return to our schools we must be prepared to meet deferred maintenance needs, and new challenges. The District considered waiting two years until the next election to ask for your support, but there are essential projects that cannot wait. At this critical time, we must improve the health and safety of our school campuses.

With the community’s trust and support, the District successfully completed our new middle school but now must address the long-deferred needs of our 20-year-old high school and much older two elementary schools. These campuses need significant infrastructure updates – ventilation, security, roofs, restroom improvements, plumbing, and electrical. These COVID-19-related and other safety improvements will directly impact the education and well-being of our students and staff. Our classrooms also need upgrades to increase the quality of science and technology education our students need.

This Measure addresses only the essentials our schools need, prioritized from the facilities master plan.  The District will be extremely prudent and intentional with necessary facility improvements. You can read the detailed list of priorities for yourself in the full resolution. By law, spending will be reviewed by an independent citizens' oversight committee and audited annually to ensure compliance with this measure’s provisions. Funds can be spent only on facilities, not on salaries. 

These are your schools. Quality schools improve student achievement, increase property values, prepare children for a productive future, and increase community safety. Our great teachers and staff must have safe and functional facilities to provide our students with a quality education.

David T. Hodgin
Small business owner/Senior citizen advocate

Sue Roth
Board President, Santa Cruz County Office of Education                                                                                 

Jim Reed
Scotts Valley City Councilmember

Heidi Denger
SVMS and SVHS Parent

Roger Snyder
Board President, Scotts Valley Unified School District