California voters face $12.6B in school bonds. Here's what districts want to do with the money

California voters will decide on school bond measures totaling $12.6 billion spread across 82 districts in 40 of the state’s 58 counties. In all, 87 separate bond questions are on ballots, with approval requiring a 55% majority. Districts are pointing to capital needs such as roof, bathroom and gym repairs, removal of asbestos, mold and lead pipes, and upgrades to labs and classrooms. The average bond request is $144.5 million, typically repaid through property taxes. UC Berkeley policy director Sarah Hinkley expects about 75% to pass, but warns a shaky economy may make voters more hesitant. The largest bid is San Diego Unified’s $3.5 billion package.