Bond Measures & Parcel Taxes
The San Carlos community has supported our students by passing parcel taxes and bond measures to help fund our schools. The School Board has the responsibility to place such measures on the ballot, and Measures are then approved by the voters in any given election.
Parcel Taxes
Parcel taxes are flat amounts levied per real estate parcel (irrespective of appraised value) and the funds generated for such taxes go to the school district general fund for ongoing operating expenses. Parcel taxes must pass with a 2/3 supermajority of voters in favor and are generally in force for a specific term. Beginning with the 2020-21 fiscal year, approximately 8% of SCSD’s General Fund revenue comes from the parcel tax passed by the community in 2020. This funding has become absolutely critical in allowing San Carlos to maintain all of its core programs, fulfill its mission in serving the whole child, and provide an excellent education to all students.
- Measure N - Passed March 2020 for a total of $334.60 per parcel, per year for 8 years.
- Measure P - Passed May 2015 for a total of $246.60 per parcel, per year for 6 years.
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Senior Citizen Tax Exemption
A Senior Citizen Tax Exemption is available for this parcel tax. In order to receive the exemption on your property tax bill, the Senior Citizen Tax Exemption form and documentation must be filed in the District Office by 4:00 pm on June 30 of the preceding year. In order to qualify, you must be at least 65 years old on July 1, the property must be listed as your permanent residence and you have claimed the homeowner’s exemption for this address. Once you file, the exemption is ongoing as long as you own the property.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Download the attached PDF or pick up an Exemption Claim in the District Office.
- Bring proof of age to the District Office and we will be happy to make a copy in the office. Proof includes driver’s license, MediCare card and birth certificate.
- Bring proof of residence to the District office and we will be happy to make a copy in the office. Proof of residence includes current property tax bill and Homeowner’s Exemption Claim (filed with County Assessor).
The District Office is open 8:00 am–5:00 pm Monday through Friday and closed for holidays. To find out if the office will be open prior to coming or to have any other questions answered, please call (650) 508-7333.
Bond Measures
Bond measures are general obligation bonds funded through ad valorem property taxes—calculated as a percentage of a property's assessed value. These measures require a 55% supermajority to pass. The District currently holds a strong AA bond rating, reflecting sound financial health. Once approved by voters, the District may issue bonds in multiple series, up to the total authorized amount. Bond proceeds are designated for capital improvement projects, including the modernization and enhancement of school facilities.
Measure H (2024) – Passed March 2024 ($176 million)
Measure H was approved by voters in March 2024 to help implement the 2023 Facilities Master Plan (FMP). The FMP serves as a strategic roadmap for facility upgrades, guiding the prioritization and planning of capital projects over the next 10 to 15 years.