Dear Friend,

This November, Oakland voters will be asked to vote on Measure L, a parcel tax measure to increase compensation for Oakland's teachers, student support staff, and school-site health and safety staff. I'm writing today to ask you to SUPPORT MEASURE L.

Measure L will generate $20 million annually, which will enable the District to provide an approximate 6% raise for the school-site employees who most directly impact student learning and achievement.

 

Why is this so important?

• 55% of Oakland teachers leave after three years
• Oakland loses more than 14% of its teaching force annually
• Average teacher salaries in Oakland rank at or near the bottom when compared to other districts locally and throughout California
• The average Oakland teacher can earn $10,000 more simply by transferring to a neighboring district      

Why now?

• Oakland Unified has already cut $122 million from the budget, including more than 600 personnel positions
• 7 out of 10 Oakland voters agree that the district simply does not have the resources to increase teacher salaries (June 2010 Poll Results)

What can you do?

1. Sign the petition to Support Measure L today!
2. Share information about Measure L with your friends, colleagues, and Oakland community members. We ALL need to come together to support this important measure.
3. Sign up to learn more, and consider becoming a member of GO Public Schools.

Thank you for your support!