It’s hard to imagine a world without computers: no smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, or internet. Now, imagine living in the real world but not having access to those things. That’s why we need to renew the Tahoma technology levy. The levy pays for computers, software, network equipment, and people to provide support and training to about 9,000 students and staff. The proposed levy is the same amount as the one that it would replace. Our community has supported technology levies consistently for more than a decade, and this levy is endorsed by teachers and the Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber of Commerce.

The recent change in how the state will fund schools provides about one-quarter of what is needed for classroom technology. Without local levy dollars, there is not enough money to maintain technology students now receive.

Tahoma publishes a technology plan each year. A citizen advisory committee reviews spending and programs connected to the technology levy. All classroom technology is tied to the district’s curriculum so that computers and software complement student learning.

Tahoma is committed to helping students become Future Ready. The technology levy helps students succeed. Please support Tahoma students by voting Yes by Feb. 13.

In 2017, the district completed two brand new state of the art schools and upgrades at other schools, paid for by a construction bond (which will take many years for taxpayers to pay off via property taxes).  With $19M in capital funds remaining as of June 2017 and reserves of $15M as the school year began, I question whether the district really needs $11M more from taxpayers for the “upgrade of District facilities” or “building and site improvements.”

Additionally, with the numerous technology companies in the area, do we really need $11M for “education technology, software, and training”?  Even with these companies in our backyard, public records indicate the district has previously sent IT employees to places such as Sweden.

As a parent, I want teachers to have the resources needed to do their jobs most effectively.  However, before voters agree to provide more funds for technology, voters should insist that the district (i) demonstrates it is fully leveraging the resources available in the surrounding area and (ii) details the specific needs and the intended uses for the funds.  

Without further justification, now is not the time to increase our already significant tax burden.

The Technology Levy buys classroom computers, network equipment and software, and provides support staff. It does not pay for buildings. As planned, current reserves are being spent for transition costs. Representatives of technology companies support us on our district oversight committee and make recommendations for our levy needs. A public, detailed technology plan guides how money is spent and resources are allocated. Local dollars provide more than 70% of classroom technology. Please vote yes!

Submitted by: Angela Stewart, Katrina Montgomery, Sarah Gilbert www.voteyestahoma.com

As a parent, I have seen the benefits of technology our community has supported. However, just doing what has always been done for the same amount is not the right approach.  It lacks discipline and accountability.  Prior to approving the levy, specific needs should be identified and costs should be justified.  Are there cost saving opportunities?  Again, we need to hold decision makers to a higher level of scrutiny and insist on greater accountability.

Submitted by: Fletcher Barkdull fletcherbarkdull@gmail.com

Complete text of measure

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

For questions about this measure, contact: Kevin Patterson, Director of Public Relations 425-413-3400, kpatters@tahomasd.us