San Diego School District: Building the Future of Education

San Diegans took a significant step toward improving the quality of education by passing Proposition S, a $2.1 billion bond measure dedicated to Green repairs and renovations across our city’s schools. This initiative represents one of the largest stimulus measures in the region, aimed at revitalizing educational facilities and providing students with safe, modern learning environments.

Ensuring Accountability and Local Benefits

The San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) Construction Careers Project Stabilization Agreement (PSA) was established to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used effectively and responsibly. For construction projects over $1 million, the PSA sets forth clear guidelines to maximize local benefits and support the community:

• Healthcare: Workers employed under this agreement are guaranteed access to quality family healthcare, ensuring the well-being of those who contribute to building our schools.
• Local Hiring: The agreement prioritizes local residents for the construction jobs created by Proposition S. The hiring goals are ambitious and community-focused:
  • 100% of jobs are designated for residents of San Diego County.
  • 70% of jobs are allocated to residents of the school district.
  • 35% of jobs are targeted at individuals living in high-poverty zip codes.

Promoting Apprenticeship Opportunities and Diversity

The PSA also creates robust opportunities for SDUSD students, graduates, veterans, and underrepresented groups (such as women and minorities) by establishing pathways into apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. These programs are essential for providing individuals with the skills and experience needed to enter and advance in the middle-class construction trades.

Under this agreement, SDUSD utilizes union (joint labor-management) apprenticeship programs, which have a proven track record of success. These programs graduate 92% of all state-approved apprentices in California, including 95% of all women and 92% of all minorities—demonstrating a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Supporting Small Businesses

Recognizing the importance of small businesses in our community, the agreement includes provisions for outreach and assistance to ensure that local small businesses can participate in the project work. This support helps small businesses thrive while contributing to the overall success of the renovation efforts.

Our Commitment to Education and Community

The San Diego County Building and Construction Trades Council is proud to support the San Diego School District in its mission to enhance educational facilities through Proposition S. By fostering local hiring, apprenticeship opportunities, and small business participation, we are helping to build not only better schools but also a stronger, more inclusive community.