Momentum for school bond starts to build
By Stephanie Bertholdo bertholdo@theacorn.com

Now that the Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD) has voted to place a $128 million bond measure on the June ballot, officials say their next step is to garner support for the bond.

District Superintendent Sandra Smyser reported at a recent school board meeting that district officials are available to present information about the bond to groups and organizations in the community. They've already met with several parent faculty groups.

State law prohibits administrators and teachers from advocating a position on the bond, but the law also requires that information be presented to groups when requested.

This is where the citizens' oversight committee comes in. The group disseminates information, while school administrators are on hand to clarify details.

The new bond measure will cost homeowners about $25 per $100,000 property valuation, district officials said.

To prepare for the placement on the June ballot, the district polled the community to determine the priorities of voters. Meanwhile, each school within the district listed potential projects for the next 10 years.

First on the list is the expansion of Lindero Canyon Middle School in Agoura Hills.

Upgrading school technology is considered a top priority. New science labs, restrooms, emergency systems, the replacement of aging trailer classrooms and two new performing arts centers also have been discussed.

The bond needs 55 percent of the vote to pass.

Parent/faculty groups, homeowners associations, the Chambers of Commerce and any other group interested in obtaining details on the bond measure may call to make arrangements for an informational meeting.

For further information on setting up a bond measure meeting, call the superintendent's office at (818) 878-5225.