California's public schools are crumbling. California is one of only four states to require a two-thirds vote for approval of local school bonds. There is broad consensus that lowering the voter threshold for local school bonds is the cornerstone to upgrading our public school facilities. These proponents argue that lowering the vote requirement is fair and the only way local schools can fill the enormous unmet need for school facilities. A major investment in modernization is essential to enable schools to use computers and other technology as part of their instructional program.
Cisco endorses the concept of a simple majority for local school bonds.
We support the organizers of this initiative because we believe California voters should be permitted to decide this important question. We are joined in our support by numerous other prestigious organizations throughout the state such as the American Electronics Association, the California Chamber of Commerce, California Business for Education Excellence, and the Technology Network - all of which Cisco is a member. Before the year 2005, many new schools will have to be built to accommodate nearly a million new students. Bond funds are used to construct new school facilities and modernize old ones, including updating electrical wiring, laying cable, and other improvements needed to accommodate modern education technology. A new webpage is devoted to this effort.