To the Oxnard Union High School District (OUHSD) Board of Trustees:

     OUHSD has a responsibility to provide equitable access to advanced education. Last school year, Rio Mesa High School (RMHS) promoted the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs with no cost in mind. Moreover, by fully covering last year's exam fees, the district set the expectation that these classes would continue to be paid for. By paying them once, OUHSD and RMHS established a precedent of equity and trust that working-class families relied on when committing to this two-year program. 

    This year, however, OUHSD has shifted away from universal support and has instead imposed a limited "scholarship" based model. This policy change undermines the IB program, creates structural barriers to earning college credits, and divides students based on income.

     These setbacks do not exist in isolation. The budget cuts imposed last year have already led to reductions in course offerings, teacher support, and resources. Now, with the removal of universal exam funding, the cuts extend into the futures of students who committed their time and academic plans to the IB programs. As a result, OUHSD is closing pathways that help students overcome financial barriers and move towards long-term success.

     As signers of this petition, we call on OUHSD to fully fund IB exam fees for all current juniors and seniors, guarantee consistent funding for IB and AP exams in future years, and preserve equitable access to advanced programs. To fulfill its mission, OUHSD and RMHS must maintain an IB program that is accessible, equitable, and empowering for every student.