Emotions ran high at the board of directors' Feb. 27 meeting, with principals, teachers and concerned parents united in their support for a parcel tax measure that will help the district counter $3 million in cuts from the state.

Principal after principal stood up to advocate the tax.

"Our parents are very supportive of this," said Shelly Viramontez, principal of Monroe Middle School. "In their words, 'We can't do without this.' "

Board member Janet Johnson said "I don't see how we can not do this. As the news unravels it's getting worse and worse. I don't see Sacramento coming to a resolution. We have to make a decision for our teachers, children and family."

Those in attendance were critical of the state government, with board member John Snelman saying, "The state let us down. There's no question in my mind. Once the ax falls, it cuts pretty deeply."

The entire board expressed sentiments that the parcel tax was an important measure to pass, but there were some issues concerning the exact amount.

"The amounts discussed were $160 to $180," said VanderMolen. "There would be no adjustment for inflation, and it would be for four years."

The state has mandated a budget cut in education, with the school district taking a hit of at least $3 million. Programs could be eliminated and teachers could be laid off in order to meet the budget cut.

Depending on the amount of the parcel tax, the district could recoup anywhere from $3.5 million to $3.9 million.

"California has the highest income tax in the country. The parcel tax is a regressive tax. I hope we can do the lower end, because it would be sufficient to meet the shortfall," Kleinberg said. "The state budget crisis will pass."

To pass, the measure would require a two-thirds voter approval. Kleinberg said that this percentage was high and may be difficult to get passed.

Board member Stephan Bevan said $170 a parcel was at his comfort level. But Snelham said that among the parents, there was little difference in support between $160 and $180.

"From my standpoint, I don't think $20 is a lot of difference," Bevan said.

The board voted 4-1 to approve the parcel tax amount of $180, with Kleinberg dissenting. The approval was met with loud applause from the audience.