Local Funding
Protecting Quality Education in San Lorenzo Schools
Information About Measure J
Supporting Student Success
The San Lorenzo Unified School District (SLZUSD) serves nearly 8,000 students across its 17 schools and is dedicated to providing a safe and high-quality learning environment where each of our students can become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens.
Existing Local School Funding Set to Expire
Like most school districts in the Bay Area, SLZUSD struggles to attract and retain qualified and experienced teachers due to the high cost of living and the need to offer competitive salaries. With the state only providing funding for a basic education and federal funding for education declining, SLZUSD increasingly relies on local funding to keep exceptional teachers in local classrooms. SLZUSD's last voter-approved parcel tax is set to expire this year, which would cause the loss of $1.8 million annually for academic programs and instructor retention.
Renewing Measure J
To make local schools less dependent on state funding and prevent the loss of needed funding, the SLZUSD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to place a Measure J on the November 3, 2026, ballot to renew its expiring $99 parcel tax for 12 years at the previous voter-approved rate. If approved by voters, Measure J would provide stable, locally controlled funding that could be used to:
- Prepare students for college and the workplace
- Support academic programs in reading and writing
- Support academic programs in math, arts, science, and technology
- Attract and retain highly qualified teachers and staff
- Attract teachers in high-need areas such as special education, math, and science
Fiscal Accountability, Local Control and Public Spending Disclosure
If approved by voters, the Measure J would include strict fiscal accountability protections to ensure funds are spent as promised:
- By law, all funds stay local for San Lorenzo Schools only and cannot be taken away by the state or federal governments.
- An independent oversight committee, annual audits, and public disclosure of all spending are required.
- Homeowners age 65 and over and low-income individuals with disabilities who qualify for federal SSI or SSDI benefits could be eligible for an exemption.
Learn More and Share Your Feedback
As SLZUSD plans for the future of local schools, we want to hear from you! If you have any questions or feedback you would like to share, please contact [email protected]