What is Measure A?
Measure A, on the March 5, 2024 ballot, will provide locally controlled funding – without increasing taxes – to upgrade our classrooms and labs, ensuring that our neighborhood schools continue to support high student achievement and serve our community well for decades to come.
Why do we need Measure A?
Many of our neighborhood schools were built decades ago and need priority repairs and updates to support high-quality instruction in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. While some of our schools have been updated, many require upgrades to protect student safety and security. Some older schools still contain asbestos and lead pipes, while others need updated cooling, heating, ventilation, and electrical systems.
As the temperature rises, school yards and classrooms get too hot. Shade and ventilation systems need to be updated to ensure healthy spaces for students and educators.
What projects will Measure A fund?
Voting Yes on Measure A will provide the needed funding to:
Upgrade classrooms, labs, and career technical facilities to support high-quality instruction in math, science, arts, engineering, and skilled trades
Replace inadequate cooling, heating, electrical, and ventilation systems
Improve student safety and campus security systems
Remove asbestos, lead, and other hazardous materials from schools
How can I be sure funds from Measure A would be spent as promised?
Measure A includes strict fiscal accountability requirements, including:
Every penny stays in our local schools and can’t be taken away by the State
No funds can be spent on administrator salaries
A detailed project list, independent citizens' oversight and annual public audits are required
Additionally, supporting Measure A could qualify our schools for approximately $80 million in state matching funds.
How much will Measure A cost?
Measure A will provide $675 million to make needed repairs, safety updates and modern classrooms and labs to support high-quality instruction in science, technology, engineering, arts and math for all students. Measure A will not raise taxes, but instead extend the current rate previously approved by voters. To learn more about how Measure A is structured, please visit dsusd.us/potentialbondinfo.
Will all Measure A funds benefit our local schools only?
Yes. All funds generated by Measure A will stay local for Desert Sands Unified School District schools only and cannot be taken away by the State.
Will funds from Measure A be used for administrator salaries and pensions?
No. By law, no funds from Measure A can be used for operating expenses, including administrator salaries and pensions.
What if I don't have children in the local schools?
Supporting Measure A benefits everyone. Whether or not you have school-age children, supporting quality education is a wise investment. Good schools improve the quality of life in our community and protects the value of our homes.
How many votes does Measure A need to pass?
In order to pass, Measure A must be supported by 55% of those who cast a vote on the measure in the March election. It is critical we all take the time to vote YES in this election to maintain high-quality local schools.
When can we vote on Measure A?
The measure will be on the March 5, 2024 ballot. All registered voters in the Desert Sands Unified School District will receive a ballot in the mail in early February. You may cast your ballot by mail in this election, place it in a drop box, or vote in-person at a designated vote center. As soon as you receive your ballot, please vote YES on A, follow the instructions to sign and date the outer envelope and place it in the mail or deliver your ballot right away.
How can I ensure I’m registered to vote on this critical issue?
You can register to vote at www.registertovote.ca.gov. To find out more about voting in this election, please contact the Riverside County Registrar of voters at voteinfo.net or by calling (951) 486-7200. Your vote for Measure A is a step towards a brighter future for all students in DSUSD.
How can I get involved or learn more about Measure A?
Our campaign is a grassroots organization of parents, teachers and other community leaders dedicated to passing Measure A for local students. Some ways you can help pass Measure A include donating to the campaign, displaying a YES on A lawn sign at your home and adding your name to our list of Measure A supporters!