Investing in schools is the best use of California's bonding capacity.

Proposition 55, at $12.3 billion the biggest school bond in state history, is an investment we need to make.

Proposition 55 would allow the state to sell $12.3 billion in bonds for construction and renovation of school facilities, from kindergarten through higher education.

The bond would relieve rampant overcrowding at K-12 schools by funding construction of new schools, as well as making necessary repairs at older K-12 schools, so students can learn in an environment that is clean and safe.

Proposition 55 also would provide funds to upgrade and build new classrooms on community college, California State University and University of California campuses to accommodate growing student enrollment.

An investment in education is an investment in the future. California owes it to its 6.2 million students in public schools and 1.6 million full-time college students to provide decent facilities that enhance learning.

It is true that California is in a financial crisis, and the state's credit rating is the worst in the nation. Those who oppose Proposition 55 argue that is is fiscally irresponsible to add more debt and that Californians simply cannot afford it.

But investing in our students' academic future is taking a loan that will benefit us all in the long run.

The real question, based on projected population growth, overcrowded classrooms, poor test scores and other measures that rank California's education system as one of the most ineffective in the country, is whether Californians can afford not to pass Proposition 55.

Vote yes on Proposition 55.