By Paula Goldman
I’m writing in support of Measure S. We live in Santa Monica because of the schools and the community that exists surrounding these schools. My kids play with friends from both public and private schools and we all agree that this neighborhood exists because of our shared values, regardless of which schools our kids attend.
There is no question that strong schools build strong and safe communities. And there is no question, sadly, that the State of California (not to mention the federal government) has abandoned us.
Measure S (along with pleas to the City Councils of Malibu and Santa Monica) is our only hope to restore part of the funding that our kids depend on. It is ASTOUND- ING to me that the negative signs have the nerve to say that this funding measure will “hurt the poor.”
Since when has a good public education ever hurt anyone? The wealthy can always escape to private schools. We need to protect the futures of everyone in our community.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on June 2, 2003. Read the original PDF.