LA Voters to Decide on Record $9 Billion of Bonds for Schools

Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is seeking voter approval for a record-breaking $9 billion bond measure, known as Measure US, to fund repairs, upgrades, and modernization of its aging school buildings. This bond, if approved, would be the largest in the district's history and would be repaid through property tax increases. To pass, the measure requires a 55% majority vote.


The need for these funds is evident in the district's aging infrastructure. According to LAUSD estimates, at least 60% of its schools were built before 1975, and many require significant upgrades and renovations. These include replacing roofs, ventilation systems, and plumbing, as well as tech upgrades and improving accessibility for students with disabilities. Additionally, the district aims to create more green spaces and outdoor classrooms.


The $9 billion bond, if approved, would allocate funds to various school improvement projects. However, the district's long-term facility needs assessment estimates that an additional $81 billion is required to address all facility needs across the vast school system. This means that even with the passage of the bond measure, the district would still have a significant funding gap. The areas most in need of additional funding include major modernizations, upgrades, and reconfigurations to school campuses, as well as school greening projects and accessibility improvements.

Measure US is supported by members of the LAUSD board, district superintendent Alberto Carvalho, the teachers union, and local construction groups. However, some taxpayer advocacy groups and members of the local charter school community have expressed opposition or concerns about the bond. Critics argue that the bond does not allocate enough funds to charter schools, which enroll about 22% of LAUSD students.

The bond measure sets aside $300 million for charter schools, which amounts to roughly 3% of the total bond funds. Some charter advocates, like Keith Dell-Aquila of the California Charter Schools Assn., argue that this amount is too low and urge the district to adjust its plans. LAUSD officials maintain flexibility in spending decisions but have not committed to specific changes to address charter school advocates' concerns.

The estimated timeline for completing the projects funded by the bond is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, the district plans to prioritize and sequence these projects to maximize their impact on student learning and safety. The bond would be repaid over time by increases in property taxes at a rate that would average about $25 for every $100,000 of assessed valuation on residential properties.

In conclusion, LAUSD's Measure US, a $9 billion bond for school repairs and modernization, is a significant investment in the district's future. While the bond addresses many pressing needs, it is essential to consider the remaining funding gap and the concerns of charter school advocates. As voters weigh the pros and cons of this measure, they should keep in mind the long-term benefits for students, teachers, and the entire LAUSD community.