Article 8 will hurt Claremont
Strong public schools are not an optional luxury — they are the foundation of a healthy community and stable local economy. Article 8 threatens that foundation. As a Claremont homeowner, small business owner and public school parent, I urge our community to consider what is truly at stake.
As a homeowner, I expect our elected officials to protect my investment. Article 8 will defund our public school system, draining the desirability of our city for current and future residents. Under Article 8’s plan, we would see drastically reduced school budgets that deplete school resources. It would set a rigid per-pupil cap that ignores rising fixed costs, forcing cuts even when voters support schools. Schools are the heartbeat of a community: when they thrive, the entire community benefits. When they suffer, so does the city.
As a small business owner who practices a trade, I see the value in investing in non-academic educations. Article 8 will defund our Tech Center, jeopardizing the future of our local trade economy. Not every student is destined for college. Removing access to trade education would eliminate a proven path to success for many students. When these students gain marketable, employable skills, they are more likely to stay in Claremont. The backbone of this city is comprised of hardworking, blue-collar professionals who keep our homes, businesses, and infrastructure running. They are an essential community asset.
As a Claremont parent, I proudly enroll my bright and curious third grader in public school. Article 8 will strip the school budget to the point where children like mine would lose the resources they need to thrive. Teacher retention would decline, class sizes would grow, and music, athletics and other programs will be eliminated. Worse still, safe and engaging learning environments would erode. A healthy, well-rounded learning environment ensures the success of not just my child, but all children.
Article 8 supporters claim that this budget cap makes economic sense. In reality, it reduces opportunity, weakens our workforce, and undermines our community. For the sake of our children, economy, and future, vote no on Article 8 on March 10.