Dear Everett Public Schools community, 

As we enter the last month of 2025, I want to express my sincere gratitude for our students, staff, and families. Your dedication and partnership continue to strengthen Everett Public Schools. This year has been filled with learning, growth, and accomplishments. I am thankful for the care and commitment each of you brings to our community.  

I want to recognize our distinguished school board for earning the 2025 Washington State School Directors Association Board of Distinction honor. This award reflects the board’s commitment to working together to support ongoing professional learning, closing opportunity gaps, and alignment with Washington School Board Standards. Throughout 2025, the board prioritized multilingual learners, expanded dual language programs, and adopted a new English Language Development curriculum. Their efforts, guided by the district’s strategic plan, support equitable opportunities for every student and help create learning environments where all students feel inspired to achieve and thrive. 

As we look to the new year, Everett Public Schools will be asking voters to consider two measures on the February 10, 2026, ballot. The School Construction Bond would address overcrowding by building a new elementary school. It would also replace Lowell Elementary School, update safety and security systems, and improve high school facilities to expand Career and Technical Education and other vocational programs.  

The Education Levy, which is a renewal levy and not a new tax, will continue funding staff, services, and programs for students that are not covered by the state. The Education Levy helps fill the gap between what the state funds and actual operating costs, and it makes up 15% of the district budget.  

You can learn more about these measures at our upcoming Let's Connect events. They will take place on January 20 at the Cascade High School cafeteria, January 21 at the Everett High School cafeteria, and January 28 at the Heatherwood Middle School cafeteria. All events run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. I hope to see you at one of these important events. 

As we end this year, I hope you are feeling proud of all you have accomplished in 2025. I wish you a joyful holiday season and a fantastic start to 2026. Thank you for all you do to support our students and our schools. 

Be safe and be well,  
Dr. Ian B. Saltzman 
Superintendent