Heartfelt support to renew levy | Letter

Published 1:30 am Saturday, January 24, 2026

As parents of children in the San Juan Island School District, we are writing in heartfelt support of renewing the Educational Programs and Operations Levy.

Our family sees the impact of this levy every single day. Our children are thriving because they are taught and supported by incredible teachers and staff who consistently go above and beyond. Their dedication, creativity, and genuine care for our kids make Friday Harbor schools truly special. Small class sizes allow teachers to know our children as individuals, while counselors, nurses, and support staff ensure they are safe, healthy, and supported.

We deeply value the programs this levy sustains—music, art, drama, STEM, and advanced coursework—which help our children discover their strengths and passions. The levy also funds critical services our family and many others rely on, including special education, summer learning, after-school support, English Language Learner programs, and healthy meals.

This levy is not a new tax; it simply renews existing funding that fills the gap left by state funding shortfalls. Without it, over $3 million in essential programs and services would be lost, directly affecting our children and the educators we trust with their growth.

We proudly support our teachers, staff, and schools, and we urge our community to vote YES for the EP&O Levy—for our kids and their future.

Sincerely,

Merriss Waters and Andrew Fleming

San Juan Island