Shoreline Schools hosts community meetings on replacement levies and search for superintendent

Community meetings will be held next week about the two Shoreline School District replacement levies for voter approval on the Feb. 11, 2014 special election ballot. The levy information will be followed by a session to receive input on the District’s search for a new superintendent.

Tuesday, Jan. 14

7:30 p.m.

Shorecrest High School theater

15343 25th Ave. N.E.

Shoreline 98155

Wednesday, Jan. 15

7:30 p.m.

Shorewood High School theater

17300 Fremont Ave. N.

Shoreline 98133

The measures ask voters to renew the levies for an additional four years beginning in 2015. The levies combined represent more than 28 percent of the District’s total revenues. These are not additional or new tax levies. The District projects that if both measures are approved; tax bills will remain stable at current levels.

PROPOSITION 1:

Replacement of an Expiring Levy for Educational Programs, Maintenance and Operations

Replaces the current four-year levy that will expire in 2014. The levy funds basic education programs not fully supported by state and federal funding, including:

• Special education programs, highly capable programs, remedial programs and vocational education programs

• Nurses, family advocates, librarians and instructional materials

• Maintenance of current class sizes

The levy also supports extra-curricular student activities, including music, drama and athletics. 

PROPOSITION 2:

Replacement of an Expiring Capital Levy for Technology Improvements and Support

Replaces the current four-year levy that expires in 2014. These funds would be used to meet the District’s ongoing technology needs, including:

• Student Computers and Technology Access: Upgrade equipment used for online learning in K-8 and expand use of digital curriculum and online assessments K-12

• Software/Online Resources:  Online curriculum products (all subjects), streaming video, research databases, teacher website platform, help desk service

• Staffing and Training:  Instructional technology specialists to support effective classroom integration, classes and training sessions for all staff, online support resources.

Ballots will be mailed to registered voters Jan. 22 and please remember to vote by Feb. 11. To register to vote, visit kingcounty.gov/elections. The levies require a simple majority approval to pass.

Superintendent search process

During the second part of the meeting, consultants Janet Barry and Brian Benzel will describe the superintendent search process and timeline and ask for input from community members on three key questions:

1.  What do you value and appreciate most about the Shoreline School District?  (What will you definitely want to protect and keep as the District makes a leadership change?)

2.  What should be improved?

3.  In light of these strengths and needs, what are the characteristics you most want to see in your next superintendent?

For more information, call 206-393-4412 or visit the website