What is Measure SMS?
To provide greater simplicity, transparency and fiscal stability for our schools and our community, the San Marino Unified School District Board of Trustees has placed Measure SMS on the November 2026 ballot. Measure SMS would combine the two existing voter-approved parcel taxes (Measure E, generating approximately $4.5 million/year funding 28 teaching and staff positions, and Measure R, generating approximately $1.6 million/year) into one measure for voters to renew. 

Why is Measure SMS needed?
State funding is inadequate to support the quality education San Marino students deserve and that our community expects. For more than 30 years, SMUSD has relied upon stable and locally controlled voter-approved parcel tax funding from two separate voter-approved local funding measures – Measure E and Measure R. These funding measures are set to expire unless renewed by voters. 

Would Measure SMS increase the parcel tax already in place?
No. Measure SMS merely combines the two existing voter-approved parcel taxes already in place into one, renewing them for six years, and capping any future annual increase to no more than 3%. Combining the two measures, which together generate a total of $6.1 million annually, will provide stable, predictable funding for our local schools, preventing teacher layoffs and larger class sizes.

How will funding for Measure SMS be used?
This locally controlled funding is what allows SMUSD to maintain academic excellence and keep SMUSD schools among California’s best. If approved, these funds would continue to be used to:

• Retain and attract high-quality teachers and staff

• Support advanced programs in math, science, engineering, and technology

• Support mental and behavioral health programs

• Protect hands-on learning programs

• Maintain honors and advanced placement courses

• Provide students with skills to be competitive in college and career

Would this measure increase taxes?
No. Measure SMS will merely combine and renew existing voter approved funding – without increasing tax rates.

What will happen if Measure SMS does not pass?
Without Measure SMS, $4.5 million in locally funding will expire, and the District will have to cut approximately 10% of its annual budget — leading to dozens of teachers and school staff layoffs, cuts to academic programs and increases in class sizes.

Does Measure SMS include any fiscal accountability provisions?
Yes. The Measure SMS includes strict accountability requirements, including:

• Every dollar will be used to support students in San Marino USD only

• Public disclosure of all spending to ensure money is being spent appropriately and as promised.

Could this funding be taken by the State?
No. Every Measure SMS dollar will be used to support students in San Marino USD, and no funds will go to the State or other school districts.

Would senior citizen homeowners continue to be exempt?
Yes. Senior citizen homeowners age 65+ will continue to be exempt and will not need to reapply.

When will Measure SMS appear on the ballot?
Measure SMS will appear on the November 3, 2026 ballot. Voters will receive a ballot in the mail in early October.

Why should voters without school aged children support Measure SMS?
Strong schools make for a strong community. San Marino Unified School District (SMUSD) is one of the top school districts in the State, providing exemplary education at the elementary, middle, and high school level. San Marino students have won state-level awards in music, debate, math, writing, and more. SMUSD is proud to offer a world-class education to local students, and is one of the main reasons why families choose this community. SMUSD’s high-performing schools also help protect local property values in our community.

Has the District managed its budget well?
Yes. SMUSD has received recognition managing its budget with transparency and involving the community in decision making. The District’s history of strong fincnail management has earned it a AA+ credit rating on its fiscal report card (S&P Global). The District maintains a healthy reserve to protect schools from economic uncertainty and rising costs, consistent with County Office of Education recommendations, helping SMUSD remain stable and fiscally responsible.

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