Measure L failure leaves local schools in tough spot
Dear Neighbors,
I write to thank the Santa Ynez voters who voted for Measure L. Unfortunately, we did not reach the 55 percent threshold to pass the measure. We fell about 100 votes short. This leaves the district, our teachers, Bobcats, and Dragons in a tough spot.
This was a measure that would have enabled critical safety and modernization facility enhancements for College Elementary School, Santa Ynez Elementary School, and the Santa Ynez Valley Charter School.
Although we have state-recognized high academic achieving students — and also for kindness — and award-winning teachers, our buildings are near the end of their lifespan.
The only way we can keep our buildings safe and modern is with support from the community. This is a quirk of the state funding model. Your property taxes empower amazing learning opportunities and best-in-class educators for our local students. But student dollars do not translate to facilities.
Some buildings that our TK and kindergarten students currently learn in have not been renovated not just since I graduated from Santa Ynez Elementary in 1998 but since they were built decades before.
Our Valley is as strong as our public education. I thank you for your Yes votes on Measure L. If it was not on your radar when you cast your ballot last month, I welcome the opportunity to speak with you about how critical a school facilities bond is to the whole Santa Ynez Valley.
Dr. Peter Wright
Board President
College School District
