Join School Board President Marnie Maraldo and Board Director Sydne Mullings for the first episode of "School Board Chats," a new publication that will be distributed via video, website, social media and also by podcast. The directors share about the role of School Board directors and funding, including how bonds and levies fit into the larger picture of district finances.
Bonds and Levies
In the Issaquah School District, we are very grateful to voters for their ongoing support of school operation levies and bonds. The children of our community benefit every day from the resources provided by you, the voters and taxpayers.
Why are voters asked to approve levies every two to four years?
By law, operations levies can only be proposed for a period of four years or less. Typically, school districts propose levies of two, three, or four years. After the allotted number of years, the levy expires. Voters must approve a renewal of funding, or local financial support for schools ends. Generally, the levy you are voting on simply replaces one that is about to expire.
Ballot Initiatives
To learn more about different types of funding initiatives that are important parts of our funding, review the information below.
Bond and Levy Announcements
Looking for ways to learn about the proposed February 11 bond measure? Today we're sharing about several events you're invited to attend, along with a fact sheet and details about how to get answers to any bond questions you may have.
In response to community feedback, the School Board revised the November bond proposal to focus on the district’s most immediate needs. The updated bond measure totals $231.6 million, a 63% reduction. The new proposal, which is not projected to increase the total combined tax rate, will appear on the February 11, 2025, Special Election Ballot.
In response to community feedback, the School Board voted December 12 to revise its November bond proposal to focus on the district’s most immediate needs. The updated bond measure totals $231.6 million, which is a 63% reduction from the November measure. The new proposal will appear on the February 11 Special Election Ballot. Superintendent Heather Tow-Yick and the School Board are inviting community members to community meetings in January. Details enclosed.
The School Board met on December 12. The agenda included the annual reorganization of the School Board, a report out about the annual Washington State School Directors Association conference, a report about works in progress, a debrief of the windstorm, a discussion of bond next steps, School Improvement Plans, an update about Advancing Inclusive Education, and more.
As a reminder, community members are invited to two listening sessions tonight, Monday, December 9 at Pine Lake Middle School or Cougar Mountain Middle School. The listening sessions are one of several ways that district leaders are asking for feedback about the November 5 bond measure.