URGENT UPDATE: A new report has just exposed significant transparency issues among San Diego County school districts regarding voter-approved bond spending. The 2025 School Bond Transparency Report Card, released by the San Diego County Taxpayers Association, evaluates how well districts disclose financial information to taxpayers, revealing stark disparities in transparency.
The report assessed 23 school districts with active bonds for the 2024-25 fiscal year, scrutinizing over $23.5 billion in voter-approved bond programs. Alarmingly, while many districts achieved an average transparency score of approximately 90 percent—equivalent to an A-—some failed to meet even basic standards, underscoring a growing concern for taxpayer trust.
Among the top performers, Vista Unified, Grossmont Union High School District, and San Diego Unified scored A+, demonstrating commendable transparency through accessible oversight committee agendas, audits, and expenditure listings. Conversely, Borrego Springs received an F, highlighting a disturbing lack of accountability. Smaller districts like Lemon Grove and Chula Vista Elementary also struggled, with Chula Vista dropping from an A- in 2024 to a D+ this year.
District leaders are responding to the report’s findings. Lemon Grove Superintendent Marianna Vinson stated the district is “committed to transparency” and actively implementing better reporting measures. Meanwhile, Chula Vista spokesperson Giovanna Castro emphasized the district’s intent to improve bond-related pages after experiencing website launch challenges. However, officials from Borrego Springs and the National School District have not yet responded to requests for comment.
This report arrives as districts continue to allocate bond funds for crucial campus upgrades and construction projects. For example, Grossmont Union’s bond has financed new science buildings and cutting-edge technology, with a recent refinancing projected to save taxpayers approximately $18.9 million. These developments highlight the urgent need for clear and accessible financial documentation to foster community trust.
For residents considering future bond measures, the report raises a critical question: Can you easily access oversight committee minutes, current audits, and detailed project expenditure lists on your district’s website? The San Diego County Taxpayers Association warns that many districts still have significant work to do to earn and maintain voter confidence.
As transparency becomes increasingly vital, residents are urged to remain vigilant and demand accountability from their local school districts. With elections on the horizon, the implications of this report extend far beyond mere numbers; they touch the very foundation of public trust in education funding. Share this information widely to ensure all stakeholders are informed and engaged in the financial stewardship of their schools.
