The PTA study process is outlined in the CAPTA guidelines for conducting a study (“PTA toolkit”). PTA Council followed the procedures for initiating and conducting a study, namely: a motion to conduct a study, recommended by the Executive Board and approved by the Association; formation of a study committee, recommended by the Executive Board and approved by the Association; execution of the study by the committee, via in-depth examination of the issues and regular meetings; findings, analysis, and conclusions or recommendations, which are recorded in a final study committee report; recommendation of the study committee report by the Executive Board, and approval by the Association.

Yes, the PTA Council study committee was specifically charged with gathering all available resources for and against the proposed measure, and analyzed every available argument for and against Measure ES. The committee is obligated to conduct a thorough, impartial, and unbiased examination of all available materials. Study committee members attended presentations by supporters and opponents at local civic organized events and other venues; collected written presentations of arguments for and against the measure; reviewed budget documents; conducted interviews with leaders of public agencies, and viewed videos of official proceedings.

Given the overwhelming weight and volume of PTA authority in favor of stable school district funding measures, and the Measure’s provisions and protections for exemptions, fund usage, and oversight, the study committee recommended Council support of Measure ES. These provisions, designed to lessen disproportionate impact and ensure fairness of the Measure, have the force of law if Measure ES is passed. The recommendations, some of which have already been completed or are in progress, read:After a thorough study and analysis, the committee recommends that the SMM Council of PTAs support the proposed ballot measure, with the following additional considerations. The committee recommends that:1) The SMMUSD formalize its commitment to maintaining community access to playgrounds and other school facilities on a permanent basis, regardless of the success of the proposed measure.2) In the interest of minimizing cumulative tax burdens, the City of Santa Monica prioritize later repeal of the parcel tax, if approved, and replacement with a permanent contribution to the SMMUSD, at such time as City funding and future financial viability should warrant.3) The District and the City collaborate on a plan and budget, incorporating all risks and associated costs, for opening and maintaining District premises for community use after expiration of the MFUA.

In May, 2026, the PTA Council’s executive board reviewed the study committee’s report, and voted to recommend that the Association vote to approve the study’s conclusion to support the Measure. Two weeks later, the PTA Council Association, including the Council executive board and presidents of all SMMPTA units, voted to approve the executive board recommendation. This vote constitutes PTA Council support of Measure ES.