Congratulations to the many school districts in Snohomish County that recently passed their replacement levy elections.  My district, Lakewood, has an election set for April 17.

I have lived in the district and volunteered at the schools in various capacities for almost 30 years, including serving 13 years on the Board of Directors.  This small but progressive district has given and will continue to give the very best education possible to our students.  This is done with minimum financial help from the state as has been the case for many years.  It is done with sound money management from the administration, terrific teachers and staff and an army of extraordinary parent volunteers in every school in the district.

The upcoming “Replacement Schools Program and Operations Levy” is not a new tax.  It is a renewal of the current levy that voters approved in 2008 and the district can not function without this money.  Approximately 20 percent of the district’s operating budget comes from this local levy.

Please don’t forget to vote “Yes” on April 17 so that Lakewood can continue to provide excellent education in a safe environment with up-to-date technology for all students.

Ellen Phillips

Marysville