(Above: conceptual design for renovated from the school)
The Hood Canal School District is putting forward two essential levies for the February 11, 2025, special election. These measures include a six-year Capital Levy to fund much-needed infrastructure and technology upgrades, along with a replacement Educational Programs and Operations ( EP&O) Levy to sustain critical programs and services.
“These levies are essential investments in the future of our students and our community,” said Dr. Lance Gibbon, Superintendent of Hood Canal School District.
The district has a proven track record of success, with middle school students earning test scores above the state average and outperforming most other schools in the region. Hood Canal has also been recognized with three statewide awards for excellence in communications, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and community engagement.
The Capital Levy will raise $19.1 million between 2026 and 2031, addressing critical facility needs. Hood Canal School currently lacks a dedicated music room and adequate art and STEM spaces, limiting students’ creative and hands-on learning opportunities. Overcrowded early learning areas have forced the district to turn away some pre-kindergarten families, and the aging transportation facility requires replacement to ensure safety and efficiency.
This levy will fund essential upgrades, including expanded and modernized classrooms, a reimagined library for literacy and digital learning,\n and improved outdoor spaces such as a lighted community trail, new playground, and covered learning areas. With $6.5 million in state matching funds, the proposal\n is a cost-effective solution, requiring only $1.15 per $1,000 of assessed proper ty value. For a home valued at $300,000, this equates to $345 annually.
“At half the cost of our previous bond measures, and with significant state support, this is an excellent value for taxpayers,” said Dr. Gibbon.
The replacement EP&O Levy will renew the district’s current levy, which is set to expire, without increasing tax rates. This levy is crucial for sustaining programs that are not fully funded by the state, including smaller class sizes, special education, arts and electives, athletics and activities, field trips, nursing services, and food programs.
“These levies address critical needs while maintaining and improving the opportunities available to our students,” said Board President Edie Reclusado. “The lack of ad equate spaces and aging infrastructure means we must take action now. Together, we can provide the safe, modern facilities and essential programs our students deserve.”
Both levies were developed with extensive community input through surveys, focus groups, public forums, and staff discussions, ensuring the proposals reflect community priorities while remaining fiscally responsible.
The special election will take place on February 11, 2025. To learn more about these levies and their impact, visit our Levy Information Page.
Key Comparison: Capital Levy vs. Prior Bond Proposal
Feature | 2025 Proposed Levy | 2024 Bond (Failed) |
|---|---|---|
Approval Requirement | 50% | 60% |
Repayment Period | 6 years | 21 years |
Total Amount | $19 million | $33.5 million |
Tax Rate | $1.15/$1,000 | $1.05/$1,000 |
Interest Costs | Low | High |
Includes Tech Funding | Yes | No |
Development Basis | Recent Input | Older Input |
Map of proposed renovations to first floor
Map of proposed renovations to second floor
Map of proposed site changes (new construction in white)