In the Peninsula School District, we deeply appreciate our community's continued support of school operation levies and bonds. The resources provided by our voters and taxpayers play a crucial role in enhancing the educational experience for our students every day.

Levies: Levies are vital for funding daily operations such as teacher salaries, classroom materials, and extracurricular programs. Approved by voters for a set period, levies must be renewed periodically to maintain these essential services.

Bonds: Bonds finance long-term capital projects like constructing new schools and renovating existing facilities. They are repaid over time through property taxes and help ensure our schools can accommodate growing enrollment and modern educational needs.

Levies and bonds are both crucial for maintaining and improving the quality of education and facilities in the Peninsula School District.

The McCleary case refers to a 2012 Washington Supreme Court decision mandating the state to fully fund K-12 public schools as required by Article IX of the Washington Constitution, which states:

“It is the paramount duty of the state to make ample provision for the education of all children residing within its borders, without distinction or preference on account of race, color, caste, or sex.”

The Court ruled that the Legislature had not fulfilled this constitutional obligation and retained jurisdiction, requiring the state to report on progress. In 2014, the Legislature was found in contempt for failing to establish a funding plan by 2018.

For the full decision, visit the Washington Supreme Court website.

Here is a helpful fact sheet.

Despite the McCleary decision, funding gaps remain, necessitating levies and bonds for:

• Special Education: Covering the full cost to meet students’ needs.
• Staff Agreements: Honoring local agreements with school staff.
• Student Transportation: Ensuring safe transportation to and from school.
• Classroom Expansion: Building new classrooms to reduce class sizes and comply with full-day kindergarten requirements.
• Technology: Providing students with essential tech tools.
• Teacher Training: Funding professional development days.
• Building Maintenance: Replacing and repairing buildings, adding security enhancements.

State legislators increased state property taxes to reduce, but not eliminate, local school taxes. However, funding formulas create uneven gaps and restrict local control over spending, necessitating continued local funding efforts.