The Santa Clara Chamber of Commerce and Convention-Visitors Bureau strongly supports Measure A-a parcel tax to provide much needed funding for the Santa Clara Unified School District (SCUSD). As the advocate for the Santa Clara business community, we understand how important it is that our graduating seniors be prepared for the highly skilled jobs that are so critical to the continued success of Santa Clara and Silicon Valley. With over $35 million in cuts by the State and local property taxes, the SCUSD has depleted nearly all of its reserves and already cut crucial programs. Measure A will provide LOCAL ongoing funding to maintain core academic programs in math, science and technology; keep school libraries open; attract and retain the most qualified teachers and staff; provide up-to-date classroom technology, textbooks and instructional materials and maintain manageable class sizes. With an annual assessment of $84 a year per parcel for five years or $7 per month, we can’t afford not to make this investment in our future workers and community. Vote YES on Measure A!