It’s about the kids! And, of course, it’s about money. Seniors are in a great position to help-and it doesn’t have to cost you a penny! Measure S will be on the June ballot and will offset about half of a $13 million state budget cut at a cost to most property owners of less than $19 per month for six years. You can help the parents who want to spend this money for their kids by providing the 2/3 vote required to pass but, if you choose, you don’t have to pay a cent. The measure has a provision allowing seniors 65 and older who own and occupy their own residences to obtain an exemption. Here’s why it is so important.
The state is in big financial trouble. Our elected representatives in Sacramento are still trying to balance the budget, but they have already telegraphed a $13 million cut in school funds for our district. This will cost us 66 full-time classroom teachers and 25 teachers in specialized programs along with an increase in classroom size, elimination of elementary school instrumental music programs and much support staff.
When we were raising our kids in Malibu, we wanted quality education for them, along with a great environment for their growing years. Well, we got quality education; we had good teachers and programs (I especially recall that unique tone of the elementary school band) and we were proud of it. Our kids may be grown, but we still live here and we should still be proud of our schools. Let’s help! Call Save Our Schools at 310 829-2549 for more information or an absentee ballot.
Walt Keller