The Peninsula School District (PSD) Board of Directors unanimously approved a Replacement Educational Programs and Operations Levy and a Safety, Security and Technology Levy at its November 9 Regular Business Meeting. Both levies will be put to voters on the February 14, 2023 ballot.

The three-year Replacement Educational Programs and Operations Levy (Proposition 1) will replace the expiring 2020 levy and provide continued investment in PSD staff and programs. This levy accounts for about 18% of the district’s overall budget. 

“Renewing the expiring Educational Programs and Operations Levy, that voters overwhelmingly approved in 2020, is critical to maintaining the quality programs at all our local schools,” - Superintendent Krestin Bahr.

This levy will continue funding day-to-day school operations not fully funded by the state, such as nurses, counselors, educators, athletics, arts, music, clubs, transportation and preventative maintenance projects.

The six-year Safety, Security and Technology Levy (Proposition 2) will provide enhanced safety, security systems and technology improvements across the District. It will create a dedicated funding source to better protect, serve and prepare our students for the future. 

“The Safety, Security and Technology Levy will help to keep our schools safe and equip students and staff with the technology they need to succeed, and this levy will be the only funding source for safety and security projects since the state does not currently fund these resources.” Superintendent Krestin Bahr

This levy includes secure building access controls, emergency communications systems, security cameras and cyber security services. It will also support student and staff devices and classroom instructional equipment.

The levy rates are estimated to be $1.13 per $1,000 of assessed value for the Replacement Educational Programs and Operations Levy and $0.25 for the Safety, Security and Technology Levy. Combined with the existing bond, the total local school tax rate is estimated to be $1.82 per $1,000 beginning in 2024, lower than the total current rate of $2.01 in 2022. 

PSD will continue to be fiscally responsible, making essential investments in our students while maintaining the second lowest overall school tax rate in Pierce County.