Principal Message: What the February 10 Levies Mean for Gibson Ek

Dear Gibson Ek families, 

At our school, we strive to create a safe, welcoming environment where every student has access to learning opportunities, support services, and activities that help them thrive. Many of our staff positions, programs and resources are made possible through local levy funding.  

On February 10, voters will consider three Issaquah School District renewal levies: the Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) Levy, the Capital (Technology and Critical Repairs) Levy, and the Transportation (School Bus) Levy. To pass, levy measures require 50% approval plus one vote. 

If the measures are approved, they will replace the district’s existing levy measures and will maintain the current estimated total combined tax rate for our district. These are not new taxes. 

The EP&O Levy helps bridge the gap between what the state funds and what it actually takes to operate schools, day to day. For example, the EP&O Levy provides: 

• 16.6% of the district’s General Fund – over $70 million per year 
• 40 health, counseling and safety positions 
• $9.5M in special education services that are legally required, yet unfunded by the state 
• 405 staff positions that support lower class sizes, and support health, safety and clean schools districtwide 
• 460 athletic and activity programs at secondary schools receive levy funding. About 5,250 student athletes played a sport in the 2024-25 school year. About 7,000 students participated in clubs and activities. 
• Expanded academic opportunities such as the 7-period high school day, and Gibson Ek High School.

The Capital Levy maintains our existing school buildings and facilities by funding critical repairs, safety upgrades, and technology. It does not fund new school construction. 

For Gibson Ek, the critical repairs projects that are proposed as part of the 2026 levy include repairs to our existing Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning units, for $800,000; and the replacement of our hot water tank for $100,939.

👉 Learn the impact of the Capital Levy at Gibson Ek and across the district here: Proposed Critical Repairs Projects Sorted by Site.  

The Transportation (School Bus) Levy helps ensure students can get to and from school safely and reliably. 

Voter information: You must be registered to vote to participate. You can register online or by mail through February 2, or in person through February 10 at a King County Elections center.  

• Election officials are warning that mail delays could prevent ballots from being postmarked in time for the February election. If you plan to vote my mail, DO NOT USE A MAILBOX WITHIN 7-10 DAYS OF ELECTION DAY. Instead, use one of 85 secure ballot drop boxes across King County to make sure your ballot is counted. 
• Find drop boxes and register to vote at the King County Elections website: King County Elections webpage. 

Sincerely, 
 
Tonja Reischl
Principal