re: Deny Malibu's Petition

April 15, 2021

LA County Committee on School District Organization

Dear Committee Members,

Santa Monica Forward strongly opposes the City of Malibu's proposed terms for separation (the "Petition") from the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District. Malibu's Petition amounts to an affront to Santa Monica's core values -- diversity and equity -- and constitutes an attack on academic programs and services that distinguish our school district from others.

The toll their proposal would take on vital services, including Special Education services, bilingual community liaisons, English learner support, early learning and subsidies for AP, PSAT, and SAT fees for unduplicated students would be felt most acutely in Santa Monica's communities of color. Dramatic cuts in academic programs and staff would impact every student across the city.

Santa Monica Forward regards Malibu's proposal as both antagonistic and unconscionable. Please deny their petition and urge the city to negotiate an equitable settlement with SMMUSD.

Sincerely,

Abby Arnold and Carl Hansen

Co-chairs, Santa Monica Forward