Dear Orcas Island voters,
I would like to request that you please take time to consider the two levies presented for your vote in the Nov. 4 election. The Orcas Island School District is proposing these two levies to ensure a strong future for our schools. I think a big question you may have is why two levies, and I think that is a very important question for you to understand to make your decision on how to vote. To that end, the district has prepared a mailer and has set aside times for you to come and learn and to ask questions. Briefly in this letter I will give a background for the need of each levy, but if you would like more information, please attend one of these meetings or reach out to me, anyone on the Board, or Superintendent Webb.
The meetings are as follows:
Tuesday, Oct. 28, 6-7:30 p.m., District cafeteria.
Saturday, Oct. 25, 9 a.m., District cafeteria (Levy & Lattes).
Proposition #1 is a capital project levy to improve the safety of our school campus with the primary goal of paving our parking lot and improving traffic flow. In addition, we will expand walkways and improve our accessibility and safety for students. While the primary focus of this project is traffic, paving and pedestrian safety, a portion of the funds will be spent to bring our track facility to a level where we can host track meets. Our track program has exceeded anyone’s imagination in popularity and has been a real asset to our students.
Proposition #2 is an educational programs and operations levy, EP&O. Money collected from this levy goes directly to programs and services such as teachers, counselors, sports, enrichment programs, music, supplies and maintenance. The state funding model is always changing, and they have put more emphasis on local communities to support their schools than direct funding in the last legislative session.
We have a great District and we want to keep it that way by supporting our students and meeting their needs. It is important to note that despite adding these levies, we continue to have one of the lowest MIL rates in our area and in the state. If you have questions about things like MIL rates or funding models or anything, please come to one of our learning sessions.
On behalf of the entire Board, thank you for taking the time to inform yourself about these upcoming propositions.
Greg White
Orcas Island School Board Chairman
