Lake Washington School District (LWSD) is inviting parents, staff and community members to provide input on what measures the district’s board of directors should propose for the ballot in February 2014.
At that time, the district’s Educational Programs & Operations Levy, which funds 22.9 percent of the district’s general fund, will be up for renewal. The capital projects levy, which funds major building repairs and upgrades as well as all technology, is also up for renewal.
The district is also looking at how to provide space to house current and growing enrollment. More than 4,000 new students are expected to be added to the district’s enrollment during the next nine years. Many of these students are currently in the system, as the current graduating classes of high school students are smaller than the larger incoming classes of elementary school students. These larger classes are due not only to new development but also from more students in existing housing all over the district. In addition, the district is planning for the increased classroom space that will be needed to house all-day kindergarten for all students, when the state comes through with the funding for that program.
The district is also scheduled to consider the third phase of a four-phase modernization program, which is aimed at updating school buildings every 30-40 years. The first two phases were funded by bond measures passed in 1998 and 2006. Phase one was completed on time and on budget. Phase two is now nearing completion. The third phase is under consideration for a possible bond measure next year.
The public is invited to attend any of the following four meetings:
- Tuesday, April 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Redmond High School
- Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Eastlake High School
- Wednesday, May 1, 6:30-8:30, Lake Washington High School
- Thursday, May 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Juanita High School
In addition, information and an input form will be posted on the district website beginning on April 23. Those who cannot attend a meeting will be able to weigh in online. Input from the meetings and the online form will be consolidated. Dr. Traci Pierce, superintendent, will use the community’s input to help make a recommendation to the school board. The board will vote on what measures to put on the ballot in February 2014.
