Whatcom County public schools: Renewal of our local levies

We are grateful to our students, families, staff and community for your ongoing support. As we enter 2024, we continue to come together, be flexible and support each other.

On Feb. 13, school districts in Whatcom County are asking our communities to consider renewing our levies. There are three main types of levies: educational programs and operations, capital (includes technology) and transportation levies.

Many school districts use the phrase “bonds are for building and levies are for learning.” Bonds are used to fund major construction projects. Levies are for learning, which provides funding for the day-to-day operations of our schools.

K-12 education is not fully funded by the state, which is why districts rely on voter-approved levies to bridge the gap, ensuring all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Every school district in Whatcom County will have at least one replacement levy on the Feb. 13 Special Election Ballot. Please find more information about each individual levy from your school district. Though our needs may differ, all school districts depend on the support of our communities to provide high-quality education for our students.

Levy funding supports:

• School staff: Teachers, nurses, psychologists, counselors, behavior support teams and paraeducators, and other school staff
• Academic programs: Special Education, advanced learning, multilingual learners and smaller class sizes
• Technology: Laptops and necessary tools that ensure all students have access to learning resources
• Enhanced school safety infrastructure including door-locking systems
• Student services and opportunities: Athletics, arts, music, drama, clubs and after-school tutoring

Your school district may be asking you to consider a levy for four years. Your school district will have more information about your local tax rate.

We are grateful to live in communities that support our schools and understand the value of quality education for all students.

Thank you for your continued support of our schools,

Whatcom County public schools superintendents: 

Greg Baker, Bellingham; Christopher Granger, Blaine; Kristi Dominguez, Ferndale; David VanderYacht, Lynden; James Everett, Meridian; Phil Brockman, Mount Baker; Matt Galley, Nooksack Valley