Lynwood – The Lynwood Unified School District community will vote in November on a $65 million bond measure that would fund upgrades, repairs and modernization of the District’s 12 elementary schools, three middle schools and three high schools.

Many Lynwood Unified campuses require health and safety upgrades to align with state standards as well as to accommodate the latest digital classroom technology.

Bond measures, which must be supported by 55 percent of voters living within the school district, are the primary mechanism used by California schools to fund major infrastructure improvements and construct new buildings.

The terms of the school bond on the November ballot, Measure N, require strict accountability, establish an independent citizens’ oversight committee and mandate annual audits. The bond money can only be used for facilities-related expenses.

Taxpayers would pay no more than $55 annually per $100,000 in assessed property value. For example, the owner of a home assessed at $300,000 would pay up to $165 per year.

“If passed, this bond measure will fund a number of projects that would improve classrooms and ensure students have access to the latest tools and technology,” Superintendent Paul Gothold said.

In 2012, Lynwood voters passed Measure K, which funded elementary drop-off zones, playgrounds, a new football field and track at Lynwood High as well as drainage and roofing repairs, among other projects.

A number of projects remain, including upgrades to science labs and equipment, renovated playgrounds and sports fields, new security and fire alarm systems, improved school access for students with disabilities, classroom furniture and utility system upgrades to assist with technology integration, and configurable classrooms.

If passed, Measure N would make the District eligible for up to another $65 million in matching funds from the state should Proposition 51, a $9 billion school construction bond measure, also pass on the November ballot.