Local with Lisa: Measure H

Yes on H signs are in yards all over Piedmont, but do you know what it is? Let’s go to the High school and find out.

Hayley Adams: We are worried that if Measure H doesn’t pass, we will lose some of the existing programs that we already have. 

Lisa: Hayley Adams teaches History, English and ASB here at Piedmont High School. She says Measure H is essential funding that protects the quality and stability of the education students experience every day.

Hayley Adams: Measure H is important because Piedmont is a unique situation where the state doesn't supplement as much money as we deserve and need.  Working with the ASB class, which I’ve been doing for the last 4 years, could actually hurt our ability to continue to work as a class.

Lisa: Measure H renews the core parcel tax that has provided essential local funding for Piedmont Schools for nearly 40 years. It provides about 20% of our district’s funding. This tax is expiring and must be renewed by voters to preserve the academic programs our students depend on.

Beth Black: It is a unique community because there is so much care that goes into the teaching. I have time to dive into things with students, that’s because of the number of students I have in my class, that's because of the support I feel from the parent community. From my admin, that I feel all around. We all want to give the kids the best. If all of a sudden we’re worried about resources instead of what I can put my best attention to, it impacts everyone.

Lisa: If Measure H doesn’t pass, cuts would be unavoidable. It would mean larger class sizes, fewer electives, reduced counseling and support services, staff reductions, and possible school closure conversations.

Eduardo Wolbert: Class sizes for us are really important for teachers and students. Teachers can do their jobs a lot better if their class sizes are small.

Lisa: No one knows this better than the students.

Vivian Burke: The teachers are really hands-on, everybody loves to help everybody, and if you’re ever in need of someone to sit with or talk to, they’re always there for you. That’s a unique experience.

Kate Tong: In addition to the academic stuff and in addition to our amazing teachers, there are a lot of important programs outside our classes that are equally as valuable, if not more valuable, to our school community and my school experience.

Lucia Dorsey: The community I’ve been able to build in electives like ASB and affinity mentorship has been really strong. Just being able to find a place where I belong and I can make an impact on our community in multiple ways.  I think it’s important we keep the funding for these activities for kids who are entering high school and trying to find who they are.

Elly Mak: I have these amazing teachers who can help me when I need it most, especially emotionally, physically, or academically. I think it’s really important.

Lisa: It’s also really important to attract and retain qualified teachers. Measure H affects the entire community because strong schools are the foundation of a strong community.

Beth Black: When I started here, I was amazed at the level of community support and financial support that we have, and there have been times in the past when we’ve been worried about this going away, and that would impact the educational experience students have. I don’t want that to happen. I have seen that when we get to thrive, the community thrives around these kids.

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Who should I interview next for Local with Lisa? If you have a suggestion, I’d like to hear it! Or if you’d like to talk about real estate and want to know your home’s current market value, I’m happy to provide you with a complimentary assessment. Get in touch!