Walnut Valley USD

Potential Bond Measure FAQ

Q: Why is Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) considering placing a bond measure on the November 2016 ballot? Why is a Bond Necessary?

A: Our Walnut and Diamond Bar schools are among the highest performing in the state, and we believe investing in our local schools produces strong student achievement. We need to ensure that all our students are skilled in the use of 21st-Century technologies and have a solid background in science, math, engineering, and technology in order to meet rigorous, evolving educational standards. Though some local schools have received updates to meet modern academic standards, others still need vital improvements. Many classrooms, math and science labs, technology, art and music rooms, and other educational facilities need improvements to continue supporting the outstanding student achievement.

Q: What projects would a potential bond measure fund?

A: WVUSD engaged in a comprehensive facility master planning process that evaluated the specific needs at each of our school sites. We heard your comments and concerns for our schools and have integrated your feedback into our Facility Master Plan to make sure every Walnut and Diamond Bar School receives improvements. These improvements include:

• Providing the classrooms, facilities, and technology needed for advanced courses in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).
• Improving student safety and school security systems.
• Keeping computer systems and classroom technology up-to-date over time.
• Repairing older schools, including outdated wiring, plumbing, roofs, floors, lighting, and other aging or deteriorating systems.
• Providing classrooms and labs for career and technology education classes.
• Upgrading outdated classrooms, science labs, and school facilities to support 21st-century instructional technology.

Q: How do I know the money would be spent wisely?

A: This measure would require a clear system of accountability. Accountability features include:

• A project list detailing exactly how the money would be used, a Citizens’ Oversight Committee and independent audits to ensure money is spent properly.
• All money raised by the measure would stay in the District to support our students. It could not be taken away by the State or used for other purposes.
• By law, no money from this measure could be used for administrators’ salaries or benefits.

Q: How would the independent Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee be formed?

A: By law, a Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee must form within 60 days after the Board enters the election results into Board minutes. It must be made up of a minimum of seven volunteer members who serve a term of two years each. Composition of the committee must include representatives from the business community, a senior organization, a taxpayer organization, a PTA member as well as a parent with children in the District. In addition, no employee, vendor or contractor of the District can

be a member of the committee.

Q: How much would the proposed measure cost?

A: The cost of this measure would be limited to no more than $60 per $100,000 in assessed (not market) value per year. The assessed value of a home is determined each year by the Los Angeles County Assessor’s office, but it is generally based on the original purchase price.

Q: Could the funds be taken by the State?

A: No, by law all of these funds would stay in our local schools to benefit local students.

Q: When would the measure appear on a ballot?

A: While no final decisions have been made, the Board is considering placing the measure on the November 2016 ballot. To pass, the measure would need to be supported by 55% of those who vote.

All registered voters in District would be eligible to vote on the measure.

Q: How can I find out more about the potential bond measure?

A: As the District continues to explore a potential bond measure we want to hear your feedback. Please contact the Superintendent’s office at (909) 595-1261 to share your thoughts and questions.