It's time for Medical Lake voters to renew our commitment to our Medical Lake schools.

On Feb. 10, our schools face an important election that will determine the course of public education in our community for years to come.

By voting yes for the levy proposal on the ballot, you will guarantee our schools stay strong. 

This proposal is a three-year renewal of the educational programs and operations levy that will maintain many important programs and staffing for our classrooms. It is a replacement levy and will not increase taxes.

The Medical Lake School District Educational Programs and Operations Levy supports many educational programs and activities such as all-day kindergarten, smaller class sizes, after school programs and athletics. It is what helps provide the children of our community an excellent education.

Both of my grandchildren participate in many of our levy-supported programs like cross country, choir, band, Geography Bee, Math is Cool, STEM and drama.They also have had the opportunity to gain experience with tablets, iPads, robotics and laptops to make sure they are ready for the electronic age we now live in. They certainly help their grandpa with it too!

The good news is that we can support our schools without a tax rate hike. The cost of the levy is $2.20 per $1,000 of assessed property value and with the state match will provide our district with approximately $2.5 million per year. Compared to other districts in our county and state, we are getting a great deal for what we are asked to pay.

The Medical Lake School District is a great place for children to learn.  We must continue our support of schools to ensure that all students reach higher standards.  I have been a proud member of this community since 1962 and I know we support our schools.

Please join me by voting yes on Feb. 10, so that all of our children receive the best education possible.

Russ Brown

Medical Lake