The following letter was addressed to Arnold G. York:
Congratulations! What a time to celebrate. The successful passage of Measure S was due to your unrelenting investment of energy, time and your dedication and unwavering support to the children, families and staff in our school district. I am so grateful to everyone and so proud of what we have accomplished. So many have given so much to this effort and I want you to know how very much you are appreciated!
The hard work has paid off-now we will be able to retain most of our teachers who received notice as well as the class size reduction program. Classes, programs and departments that were cut or reduced can be restored and a portion of our nurses, library support staff and elementary music program will be retained. Most of our custodial, groundskeeper, cafeteria and clerical support system that make it possible for our teachers to teach and our students to learn will stay intact.
Together, we have accomplished so much. Although we know we have a ways to go to make up the entire deficit affecting our schools, the passage of Measure S is a wonderful step forward and gives such hope and promise for the future of our children’s education. I will continue to seek new means to raise revenue and will call on you to continue to work with the board and me to meet the challenges that are ahead. I believe you are part of a strong community and we can deliver the outstanding education our students deserve and need.
Again, your many contributions to the Save Our Schools Campaign have brought about its successful conclusion. Thank you for being someone on whom I could depend. The help and support you provided made it all possible and certainly made my work easier. I look forward to the new school year with renewed purpose and commitment.
John E. Deasy, superintendent
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District