EL MONTE – El Monte Union High School District voters on Nov. 6 approved Measure HS, a $190 million facilities bond that will fund basic repairs, upgrade school safety and security, and enhance learning facilities at each high school.

Measure HS received 72 percent of voter support.

“To ensure that our students have a better opportunity to compete for 21st century careers, we must make classroom upgrades and repairs that are necessary for today’s teaching and learning environments,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “I want to thank the members of our school community for supporting this measure and helping us reach our goal of providing students a high-quality education in an environment that is conducive to their success.”

The measure will allow the District to repair leaky roofs and fix aging walls, plumbing and bathrooms. Proceeds from the bond will also fund upgrades to school safety and security, emergency communication systems and fire safety systems to include safety doors, smoke alarms and smoke detectors at all high schools. The measure would also ensure students continue to have safe drinking water, as well as expand science, engineering and computer labs.

“There is a direct correlation between retaining quality teachers and providing a quality teaching environment,” Dr. Zuniga said. “Making basic repairs, upgrading school safety and classroom technology throughout the District will ensure our students and teachers are equipped with the tools they need to excel.”

The bond will cost property owners 3 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. An independent Citizens Oversight Committee will review the expenditures to ensure the funds are spent as authorized.

For more information about Measure HS, visit www.emuhsd.org/measurehs.