Updating Aging Classrooms and Facilities in Modesto High Schools

Modesto City Schools (MCS) has a long history of providing high-quality education across seven high schools, serving more than 15,600 students in Stanislaus County. Our high schools are at the heart of our community and prepare students to compete in top colleges and careers in today's competitive global economy.

Green Construction Helmets on table

Fence Installation at Beyer High School

Why Update Aging Schools?

While MCS schools provide high-quality instruction to local high school students, most of our high schools were built 50 to 100 years ago. Our aging education facilities need repairs and upgrades to meet modern academic and safety standards. To maintain high-quality instruction for local students, updates are needed to classrooms, technology and science labs so students graduate with the skills needed for competitive 21st century careers.

Additionally, basic repairs are required to keep school buildings safe and functioning, including improving school security; updating electrical, ventilation and fire systems; and repairing or replacing aging heating and cooling systems to reduce utility costs and create savings that can be used for classroom programs. These basic upgrades to classrooms and educational facilities will ensure the health and safety of all students for decades to come.

Local Funding to Address Classroom and Facility Needs

In order to keep pace with academic standards and keep local students safe, on July 20, 2022, the MCS Board of Education unanimously voted to place Measure L on the November 2022 ballot. Measure L will generate approximately $198 million to repair and improve local high schools and will cost about $29 per $100,000 of a property’s assessed value (not market value) while bonds are outstanding. If approved by local voters, Measure L would:

  • Repair leaking roofs and deteriorating plumbing

  • Update career training classrooms, labs and equipment to prepare students for the workforce

  • Update classrooms and science labs in local high schools to support quality instruction in math, science, reading and writing

  • Replace outdated heating and cooling systems for energy efficiency and safe air quality

  • Improve access for students with disabilities

  • Equip classrooms with learning technology to prepare students for college and careers

Fiscal Accountability and Local Control Required

In order to keep pace with academic standards and keep local students safe, the MCS Board of Education is considering placing a school improvement bond measure on the November 2022 ballot. The measure would generate approximately $198,000,000 to repair and improve local high schools and would cost about $29 per $100,000 of a property’s assessed value (not market value) while bonds are outstanding. Measure L requires mandatory fiscal accountability, including:

  • All funds would benefit local schools, be controlled locally and could not be taken away by the State

  • None of the money could be used to increase salaries, benefits or pensions for administrators, teachers or any other school employees

  • Independent citizens' oversight and reports to the community would be required to ensure all funds are spent as promised

Learn More About Measure L!

For more information, please email [email protected] or see our additional resources at the links below: