Yes for renewing school levy | Letter

Published 1:30 am Thursday, January 8, 2026

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As parents of students in the SJI School District and local business owners, we are writing to strongly encourage you to vote YES on the renewal of the Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy on Feb. 10.

Our schools play a vital role not only in educating our children, but in shaping the future of our community. As parents, we see firsthand how small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and access to programs like music, art, STEM, and Advanced Placement courses help our students grow with confidence and curiosity. As business owners, we also understand the importance of investing wisely and responsibly. This levy is not a new tax. It renews existing funding approved by voters in 2022.

This levy supports essential services, including school counselors, a nurse, special education services, summer school, after-school academic support, and programs for English Language Learners. It also helps keep our schools safe, clean, and well-maintained, and supports healthy school meals and alternative learning options.

If this levy is not renewed, the district would be forced to cut more than $3 million from current programs and services. These cuts would directly impact students and would weaken the strong school system that makes Friday Harbor a great place to raise a family.

Supporting our schools is an investment in our children and in the long-term health of our local economy. We hope you will join us in voting YES to renew the SJI School District EP&O Levy on Feb. 10, 2026.

Sincerely,

Daniel and Valeria Obregon