Send this story Print this story

Adjust text size

Education Briefs

Report: MVLA bond would extend tax rate 20 years

A bond proposal being considered by the Mountain View-Los Altos High School District would extend the current tax rate by 20 years, according to a report given to trustees Monday.

The report, compiled by the district's investment bankers, shows that in the last 10 years the assessed valuation of the district has averaged 7.6 percent growth annually. In the last fiscal year, despite the beleaguered economy, the district saw growth of 6.2 percent.

Using the past data, the report projected conservative continued growth at 4.75 percent. By this projection, to raise the $41.3 million required for building additional classrooms, as well as other construction projects, the current tax rate of $14.70 per $100,000 of assessed valuation would be extended through 2030.

An official at the investment bank said 20 years is a relatively short amount of time to pay off the bonds, compared to other school bond measures.

Freestyle wins Apple recognition

Freestyle Academy, the specialized arts and technology school for Mountain View and Los Altos high school students, has been designated an "Apple Distinguished School" for the 2009-10 school year, one of only 54 across the country and seven in California.

The technology company recognized Freestyle for its "educational excellence and leadership," and its use of current technologies to create a "21st century learning environment."

"In reviewing the great work that is underway ... I was especially impressed by how the students work with multimedia technology to find outlets for their creative expression," wrote John Couch, vice president of education for Apple, in a letter to Mountain View-Los Altos Superintendent Barry Groves.

In winning the recognition, Freestyle will be featured on a Web site dedicated to distinguished schools, receive Apple discounts and gain "use of Apple headquarters."

— Kelsey Mesher