Why I'm supporting San Leandro Schools Measure B

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Here is a message I sent to friends and neighbors on why I'm supporting Measure B and request that they do so too: 
I have always believed that strong schools make for a strong city. But from serving as Mayor of San Leandro, I came to appreciate fully that the safety, prosperity and quality of life in San Leandro are firmly linked to the quality of our public schools.
San Leandrans have benefitted tremendously by financially supporting our local schools. Overcrowding at the high school was eliminated, a beautiful theater used by students and the community was opened, and necessary seismic upgrades were completed. 
School bond measures, however, can only be used for the construction, renovation and modernization of school facilities. To generate local funds to attract and retain quality teachers, support core academic programs and reduce class sizes, school districts in California have only one option: a parcel tax. That is what San Leandro has done. 
Our local parcel tax, however, is soon expiring. Thus, the school district has placed before the voters Measure B which renews and extends the parcel tax to support our schools.
Please join with my family in voting YES on Measure B. 
We all benefit when our public schools succeed.
Thank you for your support.
All the best,
Stephen Cassidy

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