Merger of School Districts in Placentia, Yorba Linda
The recent letter (Sept. 4) by Carolyn Clark regarding annexation of the Yorba Linda School District to the Placentia Unified School District sounds more like a reproach of the Placentia district than valid arguments against a merger of the districts. The Citizens Against School Annexation group ignores the educational advantages to students from a merger and focuses on economics and facilities.
Clark attacks the finances of the Placentia district without even supporting her contention that Yorba Linda students would be better off economically without annexation. How would she provide for the Yorba Linda schools when their reserves are depleted and the district is faced with receivership? This could happen in 6 to 8 years without a merger. The economics of a merger actually point to a more efficient administration by the consolidation of warehouse and district office facilities. Course offerings and programs available to Yorba Linda students would be greatly enhanced by the increased base revenue funds. This is what we should concentrate on, the benefits to students.
Clark also attacks the Placentia administration, stating that there are inadequate funds for construction of new schools. She uses Supt. (James O.) Fleming’s comments out of context. With the commitment of $10 million in Yorba Linda redevelopment funds, the remaining building funds and the projected developer fees, there should be sufficient monies to address long-term student housing needs in the east and districtwide.
Clark suggests that Placentia district students from the overcrowded east could be bused to western schools. She overlooks the yearlong efforts of the District Master Plan Advisory Committee, of which I was a member, that concluded that neighborhood schools are a high priority in the Placentia district, just as with the Yorba Linda district.
Now is the time for us to work together toward positive change. It is a time to unify our community for the benefit of our children.
JUDY MINER
Yorba Linda
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