How are Kentfield schools doing?
Kentfield schools are known for challenging academic programs that provide students with a strong foundation for success in high school, college and beyond. Thanks to small class sizes, highly-qualified teachers and strong community support for our schools, students continue to excel at the highest levels. Student test scores consistently rank above Marin County averages and well above the state standard for academic excellence
Frequently Asked Questions
How is enrollment growth affecting our schools?
Our schools have experienced serious student enrollment growth over recent years. As a result, we are dealing with increased class sizes and classroom overcrowding, stretching the capacity of our aging schools to their limits and forcing our schools to rely on temporary portable classrooms. District enrollment has increased by over 20% in the last 5 years alone, and this growth is projected to continue at a similarly fast pace. Bacich was built for 427 students, and now houses over 700 students and Kent is at capacity.
Are our schools facilities up-to-date?
Many of our classrooms and school buildings are outdated and lack the infrastructure to support 21st century learning and technology. Outdated utilities systems are inefficient and costly to operate. Many classrooms are in need of basic repairs and upgrades—some don’t have windows. Accessibility upgrades are needed to ensure access to restrooms, playgrounds and other school facilities for students with disabilities.
How will funds be used ?
Measure D will:
• Provide additional classrooms to relieve student overcrowding
• Upgrade instructional technology, science classrooms and electrical infrastructure to support modern education
• Replace outdated and inefficient heating, ventilation and electrical systems
• Upgrade restrooms, playgrounds and school facilities to ensure they are accessible for students with disabilities
A complete Facilities Needs Assessment was completed. It can be reviewed here, and shows where anticipated funds will go.
How do we know funds will be spent responsibly?
One hundred percent of Measure D funds are dedicated to our schools and facilities—nothing can be diverted for other purposes. Independent citizens’ oversight and annual audits are required to ensure that funds are spent as promised. No funds can be used for administrator salaries.
How would repairs and upgrades support an excellent education in Kentfield schools?
Student overcrowding and enrollment growth threaten the quality education in our schools. We need additional classrooms and school facilities to maintain small class sizes that support excellent education. Our students also need up-to-date classroom facilities, modern instructional technology and the electrical infrastructure to support it. By replacing these outdated heating, air-conditioning, plumbing and electrical systems, we could save money that could be dedicated to classrooms programs.
How much will Measure D cost?
Measure D will cost homeowners no more than $30 per $100,000 of assessed—not market—value of their home annually. The assessed value of a home is determined by the Marin County Assessor’s office, but is generally based on the original purchase price of the property.
Why can’t the District meet its facilities needs with its current budget?
Today, the improvements needed for Kentfield schools are far more than the current funding sources available. The per pupil funding which the District receives from the state is only enough to support the day-to-day business of educating students and not the cost of upgrading, modernizing, and repairing facilities. School districts across the state and nearly every school district in Marin County relies on local bonds measures to fund school improvements.
Will Measure D allow our schools to qualify for state matching funds?
Yes. If passed, Measure D will qualify Kentfield schools for future state matching funds when they become available, thereby maximizing every penny.
What will happen if Measure D does not pass?
If the measure does not pass, our classroom sizes will become larger, and our classrooms and school facilities will continue to deteriorate. In addition, funds that would otherwise go to classroom instruction will be needed to make critical safety repairs and improvements at the school. Major repairs will need to be postponed, making them more costly in the future.
Wasn't there a bond in recent years?
The community passed a General Obligation bond in 2004 for $11.9 million. It paid for the addition of four new classrooms, sound-proofing in the round building, and the Community Center at Bacich. Modernization projects were funded on both campuses as were sports and athletics facilities and infrastructure upgrades. $8.9 million remains on this bond, which will be paid off entirely by 2029.
How can I vote on Measure D?
Measure D will appear on the November 4, 2014 ballot. All registered voters in the Kentfield School District are eligible to vote on Measure D. Absentee voters should expect to receive their ballot the week of October 6. October 20 is the deadline to register to vote in this election. In order to pass, Measure D must be approved by at least 55% of voters who cast a ballot for the measure.