November 28, 2008

MEASURE T

More! More!

By Bill Highlander
Editor

Evergreen residents voted overwhelmingly to pass Measure T. That means more music, more art, more science and more math in the elementary and middle schools.

“We are hugely grateful to the people for passing Measure T,” says Kathy Gomez, assistant superintendent for the school district. The new parcel tax will bring about $2 million over five years to supplement the education budget.

Currently there is no instruction in music at the elementary schools. Special programs, such as one at Silver Oak, are paid for by the school’s educational foundation. Chaboya and Ley Va middle schools do have music programs. Now, music teachers will be hired beginning in the fall of 2009.

Some of the schools teach art sporadically using parent volunteers. The plan is to try to get some art instruction in all the schools. Studies have shown that appreciation for art and music gained at an early age helps overall development in students.

The additional money will allow hiring of more teachers in science and mathematics.

The Evergreen Elementary School District already participates in a 20 to 1 ratio in class size at the kindergarten through third grade levels. The district will now be able to continue that class size.

About 75 percent of the voters approved the measure that places a tax of $90 a year for five years on each residential parcel. There will be a provision to exempt senior citizens from the tax. Gomez expects the money to come to the district at the beginning of the 2009-2010 school year.

The District 8 Community Round Table strongly endorsed Measure T, with its president Jim Zito saying it was an “investment in the future of our children.” Vice Mayor Dave Cortese and other community leaders also were in favor of the measure.

The California budget is not able to adequately fund education. Measure T and efforts by parents will help make up the shortfall.