The replacement education programs and operation levy that will not raise the overall current local school district tax rate
At Tuesday’s board meeting, the Evergreen Public Schools Board of Directors approved a replacement levy resolution for the Feb. 8, 2022 election ballot. Voters within the district’s boundaries will be asked to vote on a replacement education programs and operation levy that will not raise the overall current local school district tax rate.
Although the state of Washington has taken on more responsibility for paying for basic education, there are still funding gaps. The state allows each school district to ask for locally-voted levies to cover programs either partially, or not funded at all, by the state. Evergreen is asking for a three-year replacement levy: $1.92 per $1,000 of assessed value the first year, and $2.12 the second and third years. When coupled with existing school-approved Bond measure and Technology Levy, it maintains the current local school tax rate of $3.89 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
As required by Washington state, the proposed three-year levy must be designated and reported to the state to be spent in non-basic education categories and directed at maintenance and operations activities. If passed, levy dollars will ensure the continuation of athletics and activities; support performing arts such as band, choir, orchestra and theater programs, productions and performances; health and safety programs such as additional school nurses, counseling and social-emotional supports and services, safety and security staff, and to maintain small class sizes.
“Evergreen continues to efficiently and effectively spend dollars approved by our voters. We are delivering new and replacement schools authorized by the 2018 Bond measure on time and, at or under, budget. We have one of the lowest administrative and central office costs in the state and among peer districts. Even with the COVID protocol requirements for schools, we continue to ensure the existing local levy money is spent on programs and supports that have direct student impact. This focus continues to lead to greater student success and some of the highest graduation rates in the region,” said Board President Victoria Bradford.
In 2018, Evergreen voters passed a $695 million capital facilities bond to replace, rebuild and repair all schools in the district. This resulted in the replacement of six elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools and two special purpose schools, plus allowed for the addition of an elementary school. The 2018 Bond funds cannot be used for daily maintenance and operations.
Additional information on the replacement levy will be available on the Evergreen Public Schools web site (www.evergreenps.org), and in an informational mailer to be sent to all property owners in January 2022.
Information provided by Evergreen Public Schools.
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