By Sandy Schwartz
The lack of funding in our schools has always been an issue. When our two sons, who are now in their 40s, attended Culver City schools, there were complaints about unfulfilled needs just as there are now. Unfortunately there never is enough money for everything that needs to be done in a school district, whether it involves maintenance, supplies, or staffing.
In the past 40 years or so, there have been several school bond issues and parcel tax votes to benefit our schools. If memory serves me correctly, three out of four passed. Before those proposals appeared on the ballot, intense study and planning took place to assess exactly what the needs of the School District were –short- and long-term. With this evidence to present to the public, many active Culver City citizens worked hard to assure passage of the measures.
Currently, those who now are disappointed, even angry, about a bond measure not appearing on the November ballot are very concerned about the condition of our schools. We all are. Two of the three School Board members who voted to delay the bond election were there during those past campaigns to obtain funding for the schools.
The third Board member was a child at the time, and he was surrounded by family campaign activity. Everyone worked hard to be almost certain the public would accept the increase in taxes before they started campaigning. They put up signs, wrote letters, and spoke at public meetings. And they succeeded.
Delaying the bond issue does not mean it won’t ever happen. It means when it does appear on the ballot it will be a proposal with goals and facts and figures that voters will understand, accept and vote for.
It always is wise to look back through history to see why campaigns for anything were successful so that those same strategies can be emulated. It is wise to listen to those who were there, worked hard, and succeeded.
Next year when the bond issue is ready to go, we can all work together to help it pass. Then we can enjoy the improvements it will bring to our schools.
Ms. Schwartz may be contacted at ssschwar@pacbell.net
