URGENT UPDATE: A new report reveals significant transparency issues in San Diego County school districts regarding voter-approved bond spending. The 2025 School Bond Transparency Report Card from the San Diego County Taxpayers Association highlights a stark divide among districts, with some excelling while others struggle to meet basic standards.
The report evaluated 23 districts with active bonds for the 2024-25 fiscal year, analyzing over $23.5 billion in voter-approved bond programs. While the average transparency score hovers around 90 percent—equivalent to an A-—certain districts, such as Borrego Springs, flunked with an F grade.
Top Performers: Districts like Vista Unified, Grossmont Union High School District, and San Diego Unified earned A+ scores, reflecting their commitment to transparency in posting oversight committee agendas, annual audits, and itemized expenditures online. However, Chula Vista Elementary saw a dramatic drop from an A- to a D+, signaling urgent need for improvement.
Officials are responding to the report’s findings. Lemon Grove Superintendent Marianna Vinson asserted the district’s commitment to transparency and shared plans to enhance reporting and audits. In contrast, Chula Vista spokesperson Giovanna Castro acknowledged website issues affecting access to bond-related information. Requests for comment from Borrego Springs and National School District have gone unanswered.
The timing of this report is crucial as districts are actively spending bond proceeds on essential upgrades and construction projects. Notably, Grossmont Union has financed significant developments including new science buildings and advanced technology facilities, while refinancing is projected to save taxpayers around $18.9 million.
What Voters Must Know: Residents should consider the ease of accessing oversight minutes, audits, project lists, and itemized expenditures on district websites when evaluating future bond measures. This scorecard indicates that many districts still have significant improvements to make to maintain voter trust in local bond promises.
As districts face scrutiny over transparency, stakeholders are urged to demand clearer and more accessible spending documentation. The ongoing developments in this situation highlight the critical importance of holding educational institutions accountable for public funds. Share this urgent update to ensure your community stays informed about where their tax dollars are going!
