Technology is a critical part of a student’s education in 2024. Your “yes” vote to renew the Technology Levy will provide continued access to technology that gives students the knowledge and experience to be competitive in the workforce and continued education.

The levy pays for equipment, infrastructure, training, and support staff that provide student access to computers and other digital learning resources. It also pays for teacher training so educators can use technology in their lessons and teach their students how to use that technology. Tahoma is committed to using technology in authentic and engaging ways to enhance and extend learning. This means that students will know how to leverage technology now and in their future careers, while also developing important personal skills like teamwork and collaboration.

Technology also plays an important role in student safety. Nationally, student and family data privacy has become increasingly vulnerable to ransom attacks, and the Technology Levy provides cybersecurity infrastructure to protect sensitive information. Much of the physical security technology like key card access, radios and cameras are also funded by the Technology Levy.

With the renewed Technology Levy, Tahoma can deliver high-quality, modernized instruction in a safe learning environment. Please vote yes!

Submitted by: Kimberly Allison, Ginnylynn Ursprung, Rick Haag, voteyestahoma.com

In the face of an increasing reliance on technology in education, voters should strongly consider a "no" vote on Proposition 2 Replacement Technology Capital Projects Levy. The excessive use of technology among students reinforces the need for a cautious approach to tech integration in classrooms. 

The District has yet to provide a clear analysis of the return on investment that technology has had on our students’ test scores since the previous levy. Additionally, racing to acquire the latest technology fosters educational inequities, pitting districts against each other in the pursuit of relevance that overlooks fundamental educational needs.

Passing technology levies involves more than financing the maintenance of devices; it commits taxpayers to fund tech staff and expensive training for existing personnel. The Tahoma School District’s Strategic Plan for Technology estimated a staggering $5.3 million solely for technology staff and training.

While acknowledging the importance of technological advancements, voters must demand assurances that taxpayer dollars will be spent responsibly. The potential consequences of high-tech integration, such as high-paid administrators and additional burdens on already overworked teachers, raise concerns about the value of such investments. A "no" vote sends a clear message: prioritize necessities over extravagant tech expenses which further burden taxpayers.

Submitted by: Tina Dechand, Carolyn Armstrong, Stephen Hutsell, LevyNo.com

This levy does not require TSD to purchase the latest technology. In Tahoma, technology in the classroom is only prioritized when it can support and enhance the fundamental educational needs of our students. Access to technology in school prepares students to enter the workforce, where experience with technology is valuable and necessary for success. A "yes" vote is the best way to ensure that our students are prepared for their futures.

Submitted by: Kimberly Allison, Ginnylynn Ursprung, Rick Haag, voteyestahoma.com

Overemphasizing technology marginalizes trade jobs, undervaluing crucial skills. Relying solely on digital resources hampers interpersonal skills, creativity, and critical thinking. Ransom attacks reveal the downside of overreliance on technology, an issue taxpayers shouldn't bear. Prioritizing physical safety technology is essential, like keycard access to portables, but was recently rejected by the district. A balanced approach is needed, recognizing diverse career paths, and addressing the limitations and risks associated with excessive reliance on digital solutions.

Submitted by: Tina Dechand, Carolyn Armstrong, Stephen Hutsell, LevyNo.com

Download the full text of the resolution

Simple majority (Wash. Const. art. VII, sec. 2(a))

For questions about this measure, contact: AJ Garcia, Public Relations Director, (425) 413-3400, ajgarcia@tahomasd.us