Board backs state bill to create education equalization endowment; urges action on funding disparities

The East Side Union High School District Board of Trustees on June 5 unanimously adopted a resolution supporting Senate Bill 743, the Education Equalization Endowment Act, which would create a state endowment to direct surplus education funds to less‑well‑funded districts.

Superintendent Vanderzee framed the resolution as a response to long‑standing funding inequities. “When we look at moments where the state doesn't have the resources, districts like ours have to talk about cutting $10 million worth of people,” he said, arguing that local needs are not matched by current funding formulas. Vanderzee said the bill was introduced by Senator Cortese and would not reduce existing resources for better‑funded districts; instead, the endowment would allocate additional resources in times of state surplus.

The board voted to adopt the resolution in support of SB 743. Trustee Dave Cortesi moved the resolution and Trustee Lay seconded; the motion passed 5‑0. Trustees thanked the superintendent and staff for drafting the language and urged community engagement on the issue.

The resolution instructs staff to communicate the board’s support to state legislators and to engage with partner districts and community stakeholders in advocacy efforts. The measure is intended to spur legislative and public attention to the district’s long‑standing funding gaps.