Are Acalanes Schools on the Brink? Why Measure T Could Be Their Lifeline

Chronic Underfunding Threatens Local Education

For years, the Acalanes Union High School District has struggled to keep pace with rising costs, aging facilities, and growing student needs. Despite California’s reputation for progressive policies, many public schools—like those in the Acalanes district—are grappling with severe budget shortfalls. Now, Measure T emerges as a critical solution to prevent further decline.

The Crisis in Numbers

• Declining State Funding: Adjusted for inflation, per-pupil funding has dropped by 12% since 2008.
• Aging Infrastructure: 70% of district schools require urgent repairs, from leaky roofs to outdated HVAC systems.
• Staff Retention Issues: Teacher salaries lag 18% behind neighboring districts, driving talent away.

What Measure T Promises

This proposed $149 million bond would directly address:

1. Modernizing classrooms with technology upgrades
2. Replacing 50-year-old portable classrooms
3. Improving earthquake and fire safety systems
4. Expanding career-training facilities

The Opposition’s Case

Critics argue:

• Property owners would face increased taxes (~$60 per $100K assessed value annually)
• Past bonds haven’t fully resolved infrastructure issues
• Concerns about fiscal oversight persist

What’s at Stake?

Without Measure T, district officials warn of:

• Larger class sizes
• Elimination of arts and music programs
• Deferred maintenance becoming safety hazards

What Do You Think?

• Should homeowners bear the burden of fixing underfunded schools?
• Is Measure T a band-aid solution, or does it address root problems?
• Would you support higher taxes if it meant better schools for renters’ children?
• Are public schools failing because of funding—or mismanagement?

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