Happy New Year and welcome to 2026. As we begin the year together, Everett Public Schools remains focused on planning for the future while continuing to support students and families today. 

I want to remind our community about two measures the district is asking voters to consider on the February 10 ballot. These measures are the School Construction Bond (Proposition 1) and the Education Levy (Proposition 2). Both are designed to address needs across our district and to ensure our schools are adequately serving students now and in the years ahead. 

The School Construction Bond focuses on facilities and learning environments. If approved by voters, the bond will address overcrowding by building a new elementary school. It will replace Lowell Elementary School, which was originally built in 1951, allowing students and staff to learn and teach in a building designed for today’s educational needs. The bond will also update safety and security systems across the district and improve high school facilities to expand Career and Technical Education programs. 

The Education Levy would continue funding for staffing, services, and programs that are not fully funded by the state. It helps fill the gap between what the state provides and the actual cost of running our schools, making up 15% of the district’s operating budget. This is not a new tax. The measure would renew the existing levy that is set to expire at the end of 2026. 

Community members are invited to learn more and ask questions at our upcoming Let’s Connect events. These sessions will be held on January 20 at Cascade High School Cafeteria, January 21 at Everett High School Cafeteria, and January 28 at Heatherwood Middle School Cafeteria. Each event runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. 

Ballots will be mailed on Jan. 22. Please remember to vote by Feb. 10. 

As we move through winter, changing weather conditions may also be approaching. Everett Public Schools is prepared to respond if winter weather occurs. When weather impacts the school day, families deserve clear and timely communication. Please visit our weather impact chart to stay informed about how weather conditions may affect school schedules. 

Thank you for your continued engagement and partnership as we begin 2026 together.