Frequently Asked Questions
How is Julian Union High School District doing?
JUHSD has served the community for over 100 years, providing generations of students with a well-balanced education. The District is focused on providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary for college and career success. To maintain this standard, the District is identifying ways to support 21st-century learning in agricultural science and hands-on mechanics. These upgrades are intended to provide students with the specialized training and competitive edge needed for success in modern technical careers.
How does JUHSD plan to fund school facility improvements?
The State does not provide dedicated funding for local school facility improvements, meaning that, without a local funding source, our facilities will continue to age and deteriorate. That’s why the JUHSD Board voted to place $9 million bond Measure J on the November 2026 Ballot. If approved by voters, Measure J would provide locally controlled funding for repairs and upgrades so students can continue to learn in a safe and modern learning environment.
How would the District ensure fiscal accountability?
Measure J would require strict safeguards by law:
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All money raised would be controlled locally, to support JUHSD students and could not be taken away by the State or used for other purposes
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Annual financial audits and an independent citizens’ oversight committee would be required
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By law, no money from Measure J could be used for administrator salaries or pensions
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A list of projects would be established to ensure clear goals and transparency
What are the top priorities for JUHSD schools?
The District has identified several critical priorities that Measure J could address:
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Agricultural Science Center: Constructing or modernizing a dedicated facility to support agricultural science and mechanics, welding, auto shop, and animal programs, a top-tier priority for our community
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Job Training and Skilled Trades: Upgrading labs and equipment for fields such as engineering and skilled trades to prepare students for college readiness and career success
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Updating Safety Systems: Improving student safety and campus security systems, including cameras, emergency communication systems, fire alarms, and smoke detectors
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Modernize Technology: Keeping computer systems and instructional technology up-to-date to meet current academic standards
Could this funding be taken by the State?
No funds could be taken by the State or used for purposes other than those specified in Measure J. All funds from Measure J would benefit JUHSD schools only.
How much would Measure J cost?
Measure J’s cost would be limited to $30 per $100,000 of a property’s assessed valuation (not market value), which is approximately $109 per year for the typical homeowner in the District.
What is the difference between assessed value and market value?
The cost of bond measures is based on the assessed value of properties. The assessed value of a property is generally based on the original purchase price and may not increase by more than 2% a year. Market value, on the other hand, is based on market conditions and tends to grow at a much faster rate. Thus, the assessed value is usually much lower than the market value, especially if a property was purchased long ago at a much lower price than it could be purchased for today. It is this lower assessed value upon which the cost of a bond measure is based.
I don’t have children in the schools. How does this benefit me?
Even for residents without children in school, the quality of local high schools is a major driver of property values. By maintaining high academic standards and providing safe, modern facilities, the District helps protect the investment residents have made in their homes and ensures a stronger local economy.
When would Measure J appear on the ballot?
The JUHSD Board has placed Measure J on the November 2026 ballot.
What level of support is required to pass Measure J?
At least 55% of those voters who cast a ballot on Measure J must vote "Yes" on Measure J to pass it.
Are senior exemptions available?
No. State law does not allow for exemptions to be applied to bond measures. However, because the cost of a bond measure is based on the original purchase price of a home, residents who have lived in their homes a long time have the lowest assessed values and will pay the least toward the cost of a bond measure.
What is the difference between a school bond measure and a school parcel tax?
Parcel taxes provide local funding to support teachers and academic programs. A school bond measure, by contrast, is entirely different and can only be used for school facility upgrades and improvements, such as repairing aging buildings and infrastructure. Bond funds cannot be used for operating costs, salaries, or programs.
How can I get involved or learn more about Measure J?
Our campaign is a grassroots organization of parents, teachers and other community leaders dedicated to protecting the quality of our local schools. Some ways you can help pass Measure J include donating to the campaign, displaying a YES on J lawn sign at your home, and adding your name to our list of Measure J supporters!
