For the first time, you can respond online. You received a unique identifying number in the mail, which will allow you to fill out the online form beginning in March 2020 and you have until March 2021. It will ask questions about your household such as how many people reside in your home, date of birth, race, and sex.
Here are some things you should know:
Your identity remains anonymous. Any personal information you provide on the census form is protected by law and cannot be shared with anyone or any other federal agency. Regardless of your immigration status, the information cannot be used against you or to invade the privacy of you or any members of your family.
The census is important. The census is important because it helps to decide how much federal money our schools will get over the next 10 years, and how much money our state will get for our parks, neighborhood improvements, public health, transportation, and many other programs and services. For the Monrovia Unified School District, this means federal funding for school nutrition programs and supports for students with special needs, students who come from poverty, students who are learning English, for disadvantaged students to help ensure that all children meet challenging state academic standards and have a well-rounded education.
The census is safe. All data collected through the census is protected under Title 13 of the U.S. Code. Records are confidential for 72 years by law. All U.S. Census Bureau employees swear a lifetime oath to protect respondent information. The U.S. Census will never share a respondent’s personal information with other government agencies. Data is only released in summary tables; no individual records are released. The penalty for wrongful disclosure is up to five years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000.
What do you need to do? Complete the short and easy form online. Your kids count, so make sure to count them when you fill out the census form this Spring!
Should you need help or guidance, please call my office at (626)471-2030. We are eager to help you.
Sincerely,
Dr. Sue Kaiser
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services
Click the PDF below to access the newsletter.