February 2010 Bond & Levy Facts

The Shoreline School District is putting three ballot measures before Shoreline and Lake Forest Park voters on February 9, 2010:

A four-year replacement of expiring levy for educational programs, maintenance and operations levy. The maintenance and operations levy, which replaces the four-year levy passed by voters in 2006, will provide the district with about 20 percent of its general operating budget.

A $150 million bond for the modernization/replacement of Shorecrest and Shorewood High Schools. The 2006 bond approved by voters included funds for the planning and design for the two high school projects, but not for the actual construction costs. In order to build new High Schools, funding must be approved. Under no conditions would the school district demolish or destroy the Ronald School building. Current architectural designs incorporate the Ronald building into the Shorewood design. Seismic upgrades would be done to the building. The school district is proposing that the school share the building with the Shoreline Historical Museum through a legal lease agreement, and will incorporate display cases in the new school’s performing arts theater for Museum exhibits and artifacts. Conversations are continuing to explore additional alternatives between the City of Shoreline, Museum and School district.

A four-year capital levy for technology improvements and support. This levy would provide a funding source for technology in all aspects of the district’s program. Currently, the general fund is required to support approximately $2 million in expenses annually. The technology levy would support the district’s technology program and services, as well as fund replacement equipment that students need for today’s learning.
If all three proposals are approved, the school tax bill for the average resident of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park would remain stable at current levels.

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MP PTSA Votes to Endorse
the Shoreline Bond and Levy Proposals 

The Meridian Park PTSA Boards voted at the
January 5, 2010 meeting to support three ballot measures before Shoreline and Lake Forest
Park voters on February 9, 2010.

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MP PTSA Votes to Oppose Washington I-1033

The Meridian Park PTSA Board voted at the October 6, 2009 meeting to take the position of opposing Washington Initiative 1033. For pro and con information about this initiative—on the November 3 ballot—visit: www.no1033.com and www.permanent-offense.org.

Meridian Park PTSA joined Shoreline PTA Council, Shoreline School Board, Washington State PTA, Shoreline and Lake Forest Park City Councils, and over 250 other organizations to oppose this initiative. To view the Shoreline School Board resolution, visit www.shorelineschools.org.

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PTSA Advocacy Update:
Basic Education Funding

Last year, the Washington State PTA won a huge victory for the children of this state, with the passage of House Bill 2261, which redefined “basic education.”

Why is this important? Because the state is required by law to fully fund everything falling under that definition. Increasing the reach of basic education means more local funds can be spent on what they were intended for—enrichment and extra programs.

What's next? This year, the State PTA will be lobbying the Legislature to come up with a fair funding strategy to pay for basic education for every child in the state. The Quality Education Council, which is comprised of such major Washington decision-makers as the Speaker of the House, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, various Senators and others, is meeting regularly to refine the Bill and find funding sources.

You Can Help! Personal emails to Council members and our Legislators help keep our kids and their futures fresh in their minds. Click on one of the links on the right to contact Representatives.

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