BY MICHAEL ARMIJO
Eastvale – A bond measure proposed by the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) will provide significant help to the overcrowding issue that the fast growing population of Eastvale has been facing these past few years.
“I am frustrated that I can’t get into my “home” school in our city; the school has been full the past two years,” said a resident, who voiced her opinion on the Facebook social media site. “My son is shipped off to a school in Norco. I moved here and expected him to attend local schools. As of now, my expectations have not been met.”
On August 5, the CNUSD Board of Education voted unanimously to place Measure GG on the November 2014 Municipal Ballot.
“Bonds have historically helped raise property values within cities,” said Mark Skvarna, former Superintendent of the Baldwin Park Unified School District. “The upgrading of the schools, facilities, and creation of sports facilities increased the desire to attend our district, which in turn increased popularity and home sales.”
This new bond proposes to address the needs of outdated and aging facilities, and if approved, will provide local funding to CNUSD schools – including Eastvale – that cannot be taken away by the State.
Many of the schools in the District require upgrades and repairs to ensure that classrooms and facilities are secure, and meet current safety standards. As well, the District is committed to providing students with the proper career training they need to prepare for college.
On the bond agenda is the long-awaited completion of Ronald Regan Elementary (formerly called Yorba Elementary) near Half Moon Park off Archibald, in the southwest part of Eastvale.
In short, the $396 million Measure GG will also provide labs and classrooms for career technical education; update instructional technology in the classroom for improved student learning; upgrade classrooms, libraries, science labs and computer systems to keep pace with technology and rising academic standards; improve student safety and security; ensure that all teachers are adequately trained in the use of modern instructional technologies; repair or replace deteriorated roofs, floors, and plumbing, and remove all hazardous materials; and reduce classroom overcrowding by providing new facilities.
The good news is the promise that all money raised within city areas will be equally distributed between Eastvale, Corona and Norco schools, and these funds cannot be taken away by the State, or be used for District administration or employee salaries.
“There were significant changes that helped change the perception of our district and the morale of the students,” Skvarna added. “When you address overcrowding and necessities, the children react.”
For more information on Measure GG, visit http://www.cnusd.k12.ca.us/bond; and see the ad on page 13 of this publication.
