These trustees voted to rip down this school even though the National Trust for Historic Preservation made a presentation at a board meeting outlining how they could help. This demolition is especially poignant for San Mateo, which is about 18 miles South of San Francisco. Due to huge amounts of money coming into Silicon Valley, many people now live there who couldn't care less about historical preservation or the area in general. THIS IS THE LAST REMAINING PUBLIC BUILDING BUILT PRIOR TO WWII!
Besides being a historical loss, these trustees are attempting to misuse voter approved bond money that was earmarked specifically for repair and renovation of San Mateo High. Their actions constitute a flagrant violation of the letter and intent of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and a betrayal of the voting public. The official website has the exact wording of the bond issue, and it was clear. The bulldozers will start tearing it down in February, 2002. A grass roots organization of alumni and citizens has formed to stop this tragedy. The plight of this historical building was recently featured in the San Francisco Chronicle ( as well local TV shows).
My site has always been free. I'm asking (no... I'm begging!) that you send a "thank you" donation of any size to help pay legal fees to fight this betrayal by the board of trustees (Tell them you heard about the plight of the school at Debbie's Themes :). They need money ASAP since time is running out. You can read more about the preservation efforts and read news reports about the lawsuit in the San Francisco Chronicle and the San Mateo Daily Journal at the Save San Mateo High official website. PLEASE send a donation of any size you can to:
Save San Mateo High School
P.O. Box 5512
San Mateo, CA 94402