As Santa Monica’s public schools prepare for the future, Measure QS offers an opportunity to invest in improved learning environments for the next generation. This $495 million general obligation bond measure, on the November 2024 ballot, is important to ensure our schools are safer, healthier, and equipped for 21st-century education.
A "Yes" vote on Measure QS strengthens Santa Monica’s long-standing commitment to providing an exceptional education to every student, and it is endorsed by community leaders, including local classroom teachers, the PTA, Community for Excellent Public Schools, the League of Women Voters of Santa Monica, and the Santa Monica City Council.
A legacy of strong community support
As parents, we are grateful that Santa Monica residents understand that public education is the foundation of our democracy. Our community has consistently passed bond measures to improve our schools with overwhelming voter approval. This is a testament to Santa Monica’s unwavering support for its public schools. The passage of these bonds has transformed outdated and unsafe school environments into modern learning spaces.
However, despite the improvements made possible by previous measures, there is still critical work to be done. Prior bonds covered necessary repairs, air conditioning in over 400 classrooms, and 21st Century classroom furniture; it also funded new buildings, such as the Innovation, Discovery, and Exploration buildings at Santa Monica High School, the performing arts center at John Adams Middle School, Lincoln Middle School Science Building and Library, and the complete reconstruction of Edison Language Academy.
Many school buildings across the District are over 70 years old and in dire need of essential repairs that are needed over time, as well as modernization to keep up with the times. The passage of Measure QS is essential to address these needs. A general obligation bond is the only way for a school district to implement much-needed capital improvements.
Key projects Under Measure QS
Measure QS will fund safety and security upgrades at various sites and critical projects across Santa Monica, with an emphasis on middle and elementary schools, such as:
John Adams Middle School: A new 34,000-square-foot science, technology, engineering and math building will replace the outdated science building, featuring state-of-the-art laboratory classrooms, an engineering lab, and interactive learning spaces.
Lincoln Middle School: Upgrades include improved air conditioning and air filtration systems, a project-based learning lab, and revitalized outdoor spaces.
Grant, Franklin, and Roosevelt Elementary Schools: Permanent classroom buildings will replace outdated portables (read: trailers) and provide much-needed space for transitional kindergarten and kindergarten students.
Santa Monica High School: A new Student Services/Student Center will house essential resources such as the College and Career Center, Health and Wellness Center and a Black Box Theater for project-based learning and performances.
Oversight and accountability
The Facilities District Advisory Committee (FDAC) recommended project priorities based on comprehensive campus assessments and community input, ensuring that Measure QS funds are spent wisely. Upon completion of the campus assessments at all Santa Monica schools, the FDAC recommended the specific projects that are included in Measure QS.
Revenues from this bond measure will fund a detailed list of projects including those described above; many are already in design or pre-construction phases. To view a school-by-school project list, visit yesonqs.com/project-list. Flexible legal language in the bond measure allows for adjustments in response to unforeseen challenges — such as natural disasters — ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively. The District’s recent handling of water intrusion issues at the Muir/SMASH campus demonstrates the need for this flexibility.
Measure QS will also be subject to rigorous oversight. A Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee, required by state Proposition 39, ensures transparency in the management of bond funds. Annual independent third-party performance and financial audits will be conducted, as has been done on every existing bond. The District’s Financial Oversight Committee will continue to review and recommend refinancing when appropriate, having already saved taxpayers over $50 million.
A vision for the future
Voting "Yes" on Measure QS is Santa Monica’s commitment to a promising future for Santa Monica students. By passing this measure, we ensure that our schools remain vibrant, innovative, and well-equipped to prepare students for tomorrow’s challenges. Join us in voting "Yes" on Measure QS to continue our proud tradition of investing in the world-class education that every student deserves.
Sirinya Matute & Ted Winterer, Co-Chairs, Community for Excellent Public Schools
