As a 30 year parent and teacher in the Issaquah School District, I believe that one of the main factors that contributes to our quality of life is our outstanding school system.

In order to continue providing our children with the best education we can, I urge you to vote “yes” for the 3 school levies on the Feb. 9 ballot.

These levies would replace the current levies that will soon expire. If passed, the average homeowner would pay the same or fewer tax dollars as they currently pay.

These levies are absolutely vital to maintain quality education for our children. Levy 1, the Maintenance and Operations (M&O) levy provides almost 20 percent of the total district budget and these dollars go for basic necessities such as special education services, teachers, support staff, and utilities.

Levy 2, the School Bus levy, will provide for the purchase of 41 new buses, which will run more cleanly and efficiently than the older buses they replace. Levy 3, the Capital levy, will provide for needed structural repairs and also for educational technology.

The legislature cut education funding last year and in light of the current revenue forecast, will probably do so again this year. Levies are the one funding mechanism that enables the local community to directly invest in the quality of its schools to offset the lack of funding from the state level.

So please, vote “yes” on all three levies.

Neva Luke

President, Issaquah Education Association