FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 23, 2014
Contact: Valerie Martinez, Christina L. Cárdenas (909) 445-1001

67 percent of likely voters would support measure

School Improvement Bond to Go to Voters in November

Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District officials will ask voters in November to approve a $375 million general obligation bond that would go toward improving education and every school in the District.

The Board of Education voted Monday to approve the ballot measure, which – if passed by voters – will go toward building a new performing arts center, infrastructure to support technology, performing various renovations and modernizations to all District sites and providing electronic devices for all classrooms.

“The District has been diligent in asking for and receiving input regarding this prospective bond measure, and what our stakeholders expect from it,” said NLMUSD Superintendent Dr. Ruth Pérez. “All funds are earmarked for classroom and school improvements as we continue with our mission to ensure Norwalk-La Mirada students are accomplished 21st century learners and are successful in college and their prospective careers.”

A recent survey of more than 400 likely voters found that 67 percent would vote yes on the proposed Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District Classroom Repair and School Safety Measure. A bond measure would need 55 percent approval to pass.

Nearly eight out of 10 prospective voters, or about 78 percent, said they believe the District has a need for additional funding and recognize the challenges it faces.

Among the top features of the measure considered by respondents to be extremely or very important include preparing students for 21st century jobs; updating science, math and computer technology; improving education at every school in Norwalk and La Mirada; and repairing classrooms and leaky roofs.

“When looking at our survey, we found that an overwhelming majority of the community felt physical education and sports provided healthy after-school activities and that the District needed to make improvements to ensure school safety and security,” said NLMUSD Board of Education President Margarita Rios. “The facilities master plan addresses those concerns, and if the bond passes, the District will start the process in meeting the needs outlined in the plan.”

If the bond is approved by voters, property owners will contribute $60 per $100,000 of what their home is worth for the next 52 years. For instance, if a property owner’s home is valued at $200,000, his or her contribution toward the bond will be $120 per year.