Since 1989, the Tahoe-Truckee community has generously supported local school enrichment programs and materials/supplies through Measure A, which is scheduled to expire in 2012 unless renewed by voters. Measure A funds are spent on instructional supplies, enrichment programs in music, technology, physical education, college preparation and vocational education that would otherwise have to be eliminated or dramatically cut back without the community's phenomenal support.
The District recently commissioned an independent survey to gauge public opinion on educational priorities for local Tahoe-Truckee schools and assess whether the community would be interested in extending Measure A, as it has done several times in the recent past. Survey results show that the community continues to strongly support our local schools and education, including the continued funding through Measure A. Virtually three-quarters of respondents believe local schools are in need of additional funding, and 70% of respondents agreed that they would support a seven year extension of Measure A, with a small increase to maintain our current level of programs and help us ensure that all students continue to receive a well-rounded, high quality education our families and residents have come to expect.
Any extension to Measure A would be in keeping with our long-term practice of fiscal prudence. The volunteer Citizens' Review Committee, made up of parents, business people and educators representing the various school sites, would remain in place and continue to ensure that Measure A funds are spent as stated in the ballot language to best fit the students' needs. The Citizens' Review Committee oversight meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month and are open to the public.
Quick Facts:
What is Measure A?
Measure A is not a new tax. It is a renewal of a low-cost, flat parcel tax that generates funding for the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District (TTUSD). Since 1989, the Tahoe Truckee community has championed Measure A (previously Measure S), essential funding that enables our local schools to offer comprehensive educational programs despite declining state and federal funding as well as declining property tax revenues.
Who benefits from Measure A?
Measure A funds directly benefit public school students, grades K through 12, who reside within the TTUSD boundaries. A community that provides safe, well-staffed, up-to-date, and competitive schools not only offers its children a chance to thrive but ensures its own prosperity.
Why do we need Measure A?
Continuing Measure A is essential to ensuring that our students improve academic skills and receive a well-rounded, high quality education. Renewing Measure A guarantees approximately $4 million in annual funding that goes towards maintaining programs underfunded by the State, such as music, art, PE, updated technology, counseling and nursing services, science education, honors and advanced placement classes, college & career preparation, instructional materials and classroom equipment & supplies. Unless we renew this funding, these programs will be eliminated or severely reduced.
What exactly will Measure A fund?
Measure A will continue to fund the programs, staff, and equipment that have been in place since the passage of Measure S in 1989. Specifically, Measure A will fund:
- Academic Programs. The continued enhancement of elementary, middle and high school academic programs, such as enrichment classes, college preparatory courses, science education, and academic electives, by providing qualified teachers and acquiring necessary instructional supplies and equipment.
- Technology Equipment and Curriculm. The continued support for computer and technology equipment purchases, staffing, maintenance, training and curriculum development to enhance the capacity of students to fully utilize technology in their educational and professional pursuits.
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Visual and Performing Arts. Support for the elementary, middle and high school visual and performing arts programs such as music, drama and art with teachers, equipment and supplies.
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Physical Education. The continued support of elementary school physical education programs and the acquisition of equipment and supplies at all school sites.
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Counseling and Nursing Services. Support for counseling and nursing services and curriculum that encourage student well being and social/emotional development.
- Libraries. The continued staffing of all comprehensive high schools with certificated librarians, support for library services at elementary and middle schools, and the continued acquisition of library books and equipment for all school sites.
- Career Technical Education. The continued enhancement of high school career technical education curricula by updating equipment, developing new programs, and maintaining current programs and classes that address local vocational needs and prepare students for living wage careers.
- Classroom Supplies and Equipment. Additional instructional supplies, equipment, and programs needed to bring each school site in line with state curriculum standards.
- Maintenance and Safety. Funding for replacement of school buses which no longer meet State standards and the maintenance of playgrounds and fields to ensure student safety.
How much does Measure A cost?
The Measure A parcel tax renewal is $135 - $11.25 a month beginning with the 2012-2013 tax year. This increase allows for the rising costs associated with maintaining the same level of programs and instruction for an additional 7 years (2012-2019).
Is anyone exempt from Measure A?
Yes. Exemptions are available for all seniors 65+ and qualified disabled residents. Call the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District at 530-582-2500, extension ‘0’, to request an exemption form.
How will we know Measure A funds are spent on the educational priorities outlined in the ballot?
All Measure A funds are controlled locally. Measure A continues the District's tradition of community transparency, fiacal prudence, and independent review by re-authorizing the volunteer Independent Citizens' Review Committee. The Review Committee, comprised of parents, business people and educators representing the various school sites, independently oversees the distribution of Measure A funds to ensure compliance with what voters' approve. The Citizens’ Review Committee oversight meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month and are open to the public.
A copy of the proposed budget for the New Cycle of Measure A can be found here. As well as on the Measure A "Documents" page:
