How to Make California Smarter : Vote yes on statewide Propositions 143 and 146

Many California voters this year may have begun to feel that they are living in the have-a-problem-pass-a-bond-measure state. But responsible voters cannot allow that understandable sentiment to become an excuse for turning away from the fundamental needs of this state.

Leaders of every political persuasion agree that education is perhaps the only glue that can hold together the future of California. In Los Angeles, that realization has prompted interest groups typically on opposite sides of the block to cross the street and meet. Grass-roots community groups like the United Neighborhoods Organizations and the South-Central Organizing Committee have joined hands with top corporate leaders in an all-out effort to turn public education around and make it work for all children. Community and business leaders now acknowledge that without an educated citizenry and work force, the dreams that brought so many millions to the Golden State will turn to nightmares. Some say that’s already begun to happen.

So, will the passage of Propositions 143 and 146 change all of that? No. But the two education bond measures finish what voters began in June when they approved two companion measures, Propositions 121 and 123. The approval on Nov. 6 of Propositions 143 and 146 would be but a down payment on the most basic educational need: adequate and safe housing where students can learn.

Proposition 146 is a $800- million bond issue that would provide additional elementary and secondary classrooms for a student population that is increasing on the average of 230,000 every year. More people moving to California, a baby boomlet and explosive growth in once-small communities are contributors to steady enrollment increases.

Proposition 143 would provide $450 million for public colleges and universities to use to construct new buildings on existing campuses and renovate buildings and equipment. Propositions 143 and 146 represent an investment in California’s future and deserve yes votes.