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Poll shows narrow feasibility for June 2026 bond; district told to focus outreach to parents
Summary
Pollsters told the San Mateo‑Foster City School District board that a mid‑July survey of 600 likely June 2026 voters shows 57% support (±4%) for a bond to repair roofs, update STEM classrooms, improve safety and provide affordable staff housing, but recommended targeted parent outreach and further polling before a board vote.
A consultant's poll presented to the San Mateo‑Foster City School District board on Aug. 28 found narrow voter support for a potential June 2026 bond measure.
Jessica Polsky Sanchez of EMC said the mixed‑mode survey of 600 likely June voters showed that 57% would “definitely or probably vote yes,” putting support just above the 55% threshold needed for passage but within the poll's ±4 percentage‑point margin of error. She said parents of students were less likely than nonparents to see a need for additional school funding and recommended additional outreach to that constituency.
Why it matters: If the board decides to put a measure on the June ballot, state deadlines and campaign lead time mean the district will need to finalize details, messaging and a project list early in 2026. Pollsters said stronger support among younger voters and nonparents is encouraging, but the district should make the case for school‑level repairs to parents who feel less urgency.
The poll presented a possible measure that listed improvements including replacing leaky roofs and old windows, updating science and vocational classrooms, safety upgrades and “affordable housing to attract and retain teachers and staff.” Polsky Sanchez said voters prioritized essential repairs and STEM/classroom updates; messages emphasizing accountability and school‑level benefits performed best.
Jared Boygan of Team Civics outlined next steps: vet the proposal through school‑level outreach, run additional tracking polls, prepare materials for site discussions and, if the board pursues a June ballot, pass final measures and resolutions before the county filing deadline in early March. “There is feasibility here, but we shouldn't take 57% for granted,” Boygan said.
Board members asked about coordination and timing. Boygan said staff and volunteer teams will prepare messages, handouts and slide decks for site leaders and recommended a tracking poll before a final decision. He noted the district cannot advocate for the measure but may conduct non‑advocacy informational outreach.
The board did not vote on placing a bond on the ballot during the Aug. 28 meeting; pollsters recommended more community engagement this fall and tighter messaging to parents before any formal action.
Sources: Presentation by Jessica Polsky Sanchez (EMC) and Jared Boygan (Team Civics) to the San Mateo‑Foster City School District Board of Trustees on Aug. 28. The district's polling summary reported 600 interviews (margin of error ±4 percentage points) modeled to the likely June 2026 electorate.
