On November 3, 2026, voters in the Valle Lindo School District will decide on Measure R, a local school facilities bond measure. The information below is a factual summary drawn from the official ballot materials.

Measure R would authorize the District to issue $9,200,000 in bonds for school facilities. Bond funds could be used to replace aging heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems; modernize outdated classrooms, restrooms, and school facilities; and repair or replace leaky roofs.

What Would It Cost? Property owners would pay an estimated $29 per year for every $100,000 of assessed value, for approximately 30 years while the bonds are repaid. Assessed value is the figure shown on your property tax bill, which for many long-time homeowners is lower than the current market value. As an example, a home with an assessed value of $300,000 would pay about $87 per year. Across the district, the bonds would raise an average of about $536,000 per year for school facilities.

How Would the Funds Be Overseen? The measure requires annual independent audits and an independent citizens' oversight committee. By law, no funds may be used for administrator or teacher salaries, and all funds must remain in the Valle Lindo School District and cannot be taken by the State.

Measure R requires approval by 55% of votes cast. The District provides this information for educational purposes only.

Dean L. Shively Middle School welcomed families for Back to School Night, and the turnout was wonderful. Families met teachers, reviewed classroom expectations, and got a first look at the year ahead. A special thank you to our Shively Student Ambassadors, who introduced families to our award-winning dance and music programs. It was exciting to see so many families learning about their student's classes and extracurricular opportunities, including Rio Hondo Dual Enrollment and Model United Nations.

New Temple Elementary's Back to School Night is this Thursday, September 3 at 7:00 PM. It is a minimum day for New Temple students, and we hope to see every New Temple family there! The Scholastic Book Fair will also be on site in the New Temple Library from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

We are proud to continue offering a healthy breakfast and lunch at no charge to every Valle Lindo student, every day of the 2026-2027 school year. There are no forms to fill out and no qualifications to meet. Students are always welcome to bring food from home as well. A well-fed student is a ready learner!

This month our featured September Meal is our Backyard BBQ Bowl featuring brisket, mac n' cheese, and cornbread. This meal was developed by our Nutritional Services Manager, Chef Evelyn Vargas.

This year, personal devices, including cell phones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds, will be powered off and stored out of sight during the school day. This is not about taking something away; it is about giving something back: hours of distraction-free learning, face-to-face friendships at lunch, and classrooms where every mind is fully present.

Students may always use a device when a teacher authorizes it for instruction, when required by an IEP, 504 Plan, or documented medical need, or in an emergency, and families can always reach a student through the school office. Thank you for reinforcing this expectation at home. When school and home send the same message, students thrive.

Caring for our students means caring for the whole family. Through Care Solace, a free and confidential service provided by the district, students, staff, and their families can get help finding mental health or substance use care matched to their needs, in any language, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Call 888-515-0595, or visit www.caresolace.com/vlsdfamilies to search on your own or book an appointment by video chat, email, or phone.