In 2009, Pacifica community members joined together to pass a 5 Year Parcel Tax to support the Pacifica School District. Little did they realize the Parcel Tax would be needed to prevent catastrophic cuts due to the California State budget crisis, and even with the Parcel Tax in place, Pacifica schools would be worse off economically today. Out of 17 elementary school districts in San Mateo County, PSD ranks:
- 2nd Lowest in Revenue per Student
- 2nd Highest Student to Teacher Ratio
- Last in Teacher Salaries
The good news is our district's test score ranked in the top 20% of all California schools in 2008 despite anemic funding which ranked in the bottom 20% of all California schools. (Source: http://www.ed-data.k12.ca.us)
Our schools have improved over the past decades, with rising test scores in key subjects such as Reading/Writing and Math. However, to maintain a focus on mandatory programs and basic curriculum, cuts were made in many other areas. For our good schools to become great schools, certified instruction should be provided for in areas beyond those that are tested for in standardized tests. Areas such as early and deep exposure to Laboratory Science, training and equipment to support computer-based learning and communications, high quality library research facilities, regular Physical Education and opportunities to experience Music, Drama, Art and Foreign Languages. Today, if our kids are lucky, a parent or other volunteer steps in to do what they can with limited resources in these areas.
Through our fund-raising, PEF hopes to both advance our children's education over time with 21st Century learning practices and equipment, as well as bring back some of the many educational and enrichment experiences that were considered a standard part of a child's education in past decades. Learn more about our Educational Priorities. We hope you will join us in support for Pacifica's children through a donation to PEF today!
There are many more statistics and the reasons behind them available from PSD if you click here.