Introduction

On May 6, 2025, the San Jose Unified School District (SJUSD) will vote on a potential Parcel Tax Renewal that would increase funding for educational staff, the core curriculum, and student preparation for college. A parcel tax is a special property tax levied on parcels with either a flat rate or a fee charged on a per-parcel basis. These taxes are unique to California and were developed as a way to raise revenue outside of Proposition 13. 

Measure A proposes renewing–not increasing–the existing $72 annual parcel tax for eight years, with senior exemptions, no funds for district administrators’ salaries, and citizen oversight. This tax is expected to generate $5 million annually and requires a two-thirds majority vote to pass.

Pros

Renewing this measure would allow SJUSD to sustain essential educational programs, including core academic subjects, the arts, and college and career readiness initiatives. It would also support teacher retention by helping the district offer competitive salaries and benefits with today’s inflated cost of living. This is an important factor in maintaining a stable and effective teaching workforce.

Because the funds are locally controlled, they will remain within the district and can be allocated based on specific community needs. The bill also includes strong accountability provisions, such as citizen oversight and annual audits to ensure transparency in how the money is used. 

Cons

Continuing Measure A adds to the cumulative tax responsibilities of property owners, which may be challenging for those on fixed incomes. Since the parcel tax is regressive (has a flat rate), residents with lower-valued properties will be taxed the same amount as higher-valued property owners. The cost for both parties is $72 annually, with exemptions only for senior citizens.

Furthermore, by calling for renewed funding, the SJUSD admits they lack the necessary budgets to “support core academic programs…”–their main function. This raises questions as to where else money is being spent, considering the decline in students' literacy and mathematics standards from 2018 to 2023–a 12% and 5% drop, respectively. 

Conclusion

For the last 8 years, SJUSD has relied on local funding to provide students quality academic programs and retain educators. But today’s cost of living in the Bay Area has exponentially grown, straining our teachers’ salaries and limiting our students’ support system. Without Measure A, the district will lose $5 million annually, leading to potential cuts in educational agendas and staff. Investing in education is investing in our future, and a strong society depends on well-funded public schools that provide every child the tools needed to succeed.