School Survey Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Lafayette elementary and middle schools are rated within the top 5% of the state. Families move to our community—and stay here—in large part because of our excellent schools. We work hard every day to maintain the outstanding quality of education provided in our five neighborhood schools. Unfortunately, state funding is increasingly inadequate, and local funding that has helped close the gap is expiring soon. We believe we have a responsibility to explore every possible option to address this.

Government budgets are limited. The current way that California public schools are funded, allocates more funding to school districts that have high concentrations of English language learners, low income, and/or foster youth. Additionally, California falls far below adequate levels for per student spending, far behind New York and Massachusetts. This, coupled with rising operating costs, simply does not allow for instructional programs that our students, families, and community have come to expect and deserve.

We have always been lean and have continued to tighten our belt with $4 million in cuts over the past two years, with an additional $2 million in cuts planned for next year. Currently, one-time reserves are being used to “close the gap,” maintain programs, and attract and retain highly qualified teachers. With deficit spending and the expiration of our Measure L parcel tax, we are projected to deplete our reserves in three to four years.

Inadequate State funding requires an extra investment for LAFSD to maintain its high quality schools. The local Lafayette community and parents have a long history of meeting the need with local voter approved funding and foundation donations (LPIE – Lafayette Partners In Education). Even with this, a gap remains to maintain quality schools consistent with Lafayette community values.

Our District has tried to maintain enrichment programs, electives, and key instructional services as we know they contribute greatly to a well-rounded education. Without additional funding, LAFSD will have tough decisions to make. The last time we were looking at potential cuts like this, multiple positions were at risk, including science aides, reading specialists, library specialists, and custodial support.

Great schools are the foundation of any healthy, thriving community. Great schools protect home values and our local Lafayette quality of life. As a Lafayette resident, your perspective is important.

We have a District Budget Advisory Committee that has been regularly studying our budget over the past three years. We will continue to advocate for additional state funding and are always looking for state and federal grants. Our school board may consider asking our community to renew and possibly increase the Measure L parcel tax set to expire in 2027. No decisions have been made.

Contact Superintendent Brent Stephens at [email protected] or (925) 927-3502 or visit our website at: lafsd.org