On Saturday, several talented Cubs competed at the Regional Solo & Ensemble Competition at Blaine High School alongside students from across Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan, and Island counties—and they represented SWHS with pride, professionalism, and serious musical skill.
We’re excited to celebrate some outstanding results:
🥉 3rd Place (2nd Runner-Up): “Three Squared” Ensemble (9 band students!)
🥈 2nd Place (1st Runner-Up): Katie Kins – French Horn Solo
🏆 REGIONAL CHAMPIONS & STATE BOUND: SWHS Mariachi Ensemble 🎉
What an incredible showing from our music program. Way to go, Cubs—we’re so proud of you! 💙🤍🎵
#GoCubs #SWHS #CubPride #MusicMatters #RootedInSW
The School Board is seeking feedback on district strengths, challenges, and the leadership qualities that matter most to our community. Your input will help shape the Leadership Profile used to recruit and select the district’s next superintendent.
📝 Take the survey by Saturday, February 14 at 4:00 p.m.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyivo7JtlrbOxCkC5Nn7KeZ5DfVQhe5-a2bcPHip6rJMudPg/viewform?usp=header
Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective.
Reminder: The Superintendent Search Community Forum is TOMORROW, February 3.
This is an opportunity for families, staff, and community members to share what’s working in our schools, what challenges we should plan for, and what qualities are most important in our next Superintendent. Community feedback will help guide the School Board during the search process.
🗓 Tuesday, February 3, 2026
⏰ 6:00–7:30 p.m.
📍 Sedro-Woolley High School Auditorium
➡️ Please enter through the 4th Street entrance (Union High School, white columns)
Zoom option: If you can't attend in person, we've also added a Zoom option!
https://swsd.zoom.us/j/81555399050
We hope you’ll join us.
🔗 More info:
https://www.swsd.k12.wa.us/page/swsd-superintendent-search
Completed with the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy
• Roof replacement
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases (included in the proposed levy)
• ADA-compliant access at the front entrance (currently, those with mobility issues enter through the side entrance and proceed through a gated area, then the playground to a back entrance to an elevator)
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2028: Window replacements
• 2030: ADA-compliant main entrance
• 2032: Kitchen remodel
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including Central. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
Planning note: Projects shown reflect short-term recommendations developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Long-range facility planning is underway separately to assess future needs over the next 10–20 years.
Completed with the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy
• Replaced exterior siding
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases
• Repair sinkholes in the asphalt parking area
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2032: Repair sinkholes in the asphalt parking area
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including Lyman. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
Planning note: Short-term levy projects are developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Separate long-range facility planning examines district facility needs over the next 10–20 years.
Samish Elementary includes buildings constructed in the early 1960s. Long-range facility planning has identified significant system and site constraints at this location, which affect how and when improvements can be completed.
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases and site constraints
• Repair and repave the parking lot
• Install a backup generator to support restroom and septic system operations during power outages
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2030: Install a backup generator
• 2032: Repair and repave the parking lot
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including Samish. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
• Phased installation of air conditioning in district buildings (beginning in 2030)
Planning note: Short-term levy projects are developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Separate long-range facility planning examines district facility needs over the next 10–20 years, including broader options for Samish Elementary.
Completed with the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy
• Replaced classroom unit vents to work with the newer boiler system
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases
• Replacement of the single portable classroom
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2027: Replace main building roof
• 2030: Replace the single portable classroom
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including Clear Lake. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
Facility planning context
As part of separate long-range facility planning, a Harthorne Hagen Architects study noted that Clear Lake Elementary is located within a mapped 100-year floodplain, which limits the feasibility of building additions or full replacement on this site. As a result, facility planning at Clear Lake focuses on maintaining and repairing existing structures and systems.
Planning note: Short-term levy projects are developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Separate long-range facility planning examines district facility needs over the next 10–20 years.
Completed with the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy
• Replaced the B-Building roof
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases
• Main building roof replacement
• Parking lot paving across Lake View Road
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2027: Main building and gym roof replacements
• 2032: Pave parking lot on Lake View Road
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including Big Lake. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of buildings
Planning note: Short-term levy projects are developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Separate long-range facility planning examines district facility needs over the next 10–20 years.
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases
• Window replacement
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2029: Replace all windows
• 2032: Kitchen remodel with convection oven and hood
• 2032: New parking lot on Bennett Street
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including Mary Purcell. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
• Phased installation of air conditioning in district buildings beginning in 2030
Planning note: Short-term levy projects are developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Separate long-range facility planning examines district facility needs over the next 10–20 years.
Over the past several years, levy funding has supported maintenance and repairs at Evergreen Elementary School. Below is a snapshot of completed work, projects starting this summer, items delayed due to rising construction costs, and improvements planned if voters approve the proposed replacement levy.
Completed with the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy
• Replaced heater and ventilation system
• Replaced exterior siding
• Replaced gym floor to address safety concerns
• New carpet in several classrooms to replace original carpet from 1972
Starting Summer 2026 (Current Capital Levy)
• Plumbing system repairs (Phase 1) — addressing rusted pipes and significant blockages
• Replace and update restrooms to meet ADA standards
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile) — while some classroom carpet was replaced, the majority of classrooms' replacement carpet was delayed due to cost overruns on other projects; planned for completion if the replacement levy is approved
• Roof replacement — delayed due to cost overruns on other projects; planned for completion in 2029 if the replacement levy is approved
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2027: Plumbing system repairs (Phase 2)
• 2030: Replace heating and ventilation controls
• 2030: Phased remodel planning to address open concept issues
• 2032: Kitchen remodel to support food service operations
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including each elementary school. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
Planning note: Short-term levy projects were recommended through the Citizens Advisory Committee using facility maintenance data. Separately, the district is conducting long-range facility planning (10–20 years) to help guide future decisions.
Completed with the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy
• Added ADA-accessible restrooms
• Replaced rooftop heating and ventilation systems
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including State Street. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
• Phased installation of air conditioning in district buildings beginning in 2030
Planning note: Short-term levy projects are developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Separate long-range facility planning examines district facility needs over the next 10–20 years.
Completed with the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy
• Sealed exterior block and brick to address water intrusion
• Installed new hot-water boilers on the east end of the A Building (August 2021), replacing decades-old steam boilers. The newer system is smaller, heats water instead of steam, and improves operational safety and efficiency.
• Replaced classroom heating units in older building sections
• Replaced C-Building roof
• Replaced gym roof
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2027: Replace field turf at Janicki Fields
• 2027: Replace track surface
• 2028–2029: Janicki Fields drainage and infield improvements (Phases 1 and 2)
• 2030: Replace Janicki Fields restroom facility
• 2028: Window replacements
• 2032: Parking lot paving and maintenance
• 2032: Add three tennis courts
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including the high school. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting
Planning note: Athletic facilities listed above are district-owned instructional and extracurricular facilities used for physical education, school activities, and WIAA-sanctioned events, and are maintained as part of the district’s overall facilities inventory. Projects shown reflect short-term recommendations developed for the proposed levy. Long-range facility planning is underway separately to assess future needs over the next 10–20 years.
Cascade Middle School serves as the district’s central food production kitchen, producing approximately 3,000 meals per day for distribution to schools across the district. Sedro-Woolley High School operates as the second full-service kitchen, preparing meals for its approximately 1,200 students.
Cascade Middle School was remodeled and expanded as part of a voter-approved 2010 bond, which included a new addition and gym. That bond is nearing completion and is currently about $0.09 per $1,000 of assessed value, with final payoff scheduled in 2030.
Projects delayed due to inflationary cost increases
• Replacement of the original (older) gym roof and siding
Planned improvements if the replacement levy is approved
• 2028: Replace the original gym roof and siding
• 2032: Repair pervious concrete surfaces near building entrances
*Pervious concrete is a porous form of concrete designed to let rainwater pass through it rather than run off the surface. It helps reduce flooding and manage stormwater by allowing water to soak into the ground below. The City requires its use in specific locations as part of stormwater management regulations.
• 2032: Add a tilt skillet and additional food service equipment in the CMS kitchen
*A tilt skillet is a large piece of commercial kitchen equipment that functions like an oversized, temperature-controlled pan. It allows food service staff to cook large batches of food—such as soups, sauces, pasta, rice, or vegetables—and then safely pour the cooked food directly into containers for serving or transport. This equipment supports efficient, consistent meal production and helps maintain food safety when preparing meals for multiple schools.
In addition to site-specific projects, the proposed levy supports ongoing districtwide facility, safety, and technology needs that benefit all schools, including Cascade Middle School. These projects occur throughout the six-year levy period and are not tied to a single year or building.
• School Resource Officer support (in partnership with the City of Sedro-Woolley)
• Ongoing technology replacement and infrastructure support
• Security camera replacement and system maintenance
• Telephone system replacement
• Flooring replacement (carpet and tile)
• Student furniture replacement
• Exterior painting of district buildings
• Phased installation of air conditioning in district buildings beginning in 2030
Planning note: Short-term levy projects are developed through the Citizens Advisory Committee based on facility maintenance data. Separate long-range facility planning examines district facility needs over the next 10–20 years.
The Sedro-Woolley School District has begun the search for its next Superintendent and invites families, staff, and community members to share their perspectives.
Join us for a Superintendent Search Community Forum to talk about what’s working well in our schools, what challenges we should be mindful of, and what matters most in our next Superintendent.
🗓 Tuesday, February 3, 2026
⏰ 6–7:30 p.m.
📍 Sedro-Woolley High School Auditorium
➡️ Enter through the 4th Street entrance (labeled Union High School with white columns)
Zoom option: If you can't attend in person, we've also added a Zoom option!
https://swsd.zoom.us/j/81555399050
Your voice matters. Join the conversation.
🔗 Learn more:
https://www.swsd.k12.wa.us/page/swsd-superintendent-search
In February, Sedro-Woolley voters will see two replacement levy measures on the ballot. These levies replace existing levies that are expiring and help fund important parts of our schools that the state does not fully pay for.
In Washington state, levies are called replacement or renewal levies when they replace expiring levies. While rates may change, the levy replaces an existing voter-approved levy rather than adding an additional levy.
🗳️ What’s on the Ballot
On February 10, 2026, voters will decide on two levy measures:
• Proposition 1: Educational Programs & Operations (EPO) Levy
Funds day-to-day school operations that state funding does not fully cover, including teachers, paraeducators, nurses, counselors, extracurriculars and athletics.
• Proposition 2: Educational Facility Maintenance, Technology & Safety Levy
Supports building upkeep, technology replacement, safety improvements and other facility needs to keep schools safe and operational.
💡 Why These Levies Matter
State funding pays for basic education, but local levies help fill funding gaps so schools can continue to provide the range of services families expect. Without voter-approved levies, funding for some programs and staff could be reduced.
📊 Levy Facts at a Glance
Proposition 1 – Educational Programs & Operations (EPO) Levy
• Helps pay for staff such as teachers, paraeducators, nurses, psychologists, custodians, safety staff and more
• Pays for athletics, clubs and activities that the state does not fund
Proposition 2 – Educational Facility Maintenance, Technology & Safety Levy
• Pays for building maintenance work such as roof and infrastructure repairs
• Supports technology updates and safety improvements
Rate Information (2027 Examples)
Proposition 1 (EPO Levy)
For 2027, the EPO levy is structured at a rate of $2.49 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
The current rate of collection for the EPO levy is approximately $2.15 per $1,000. For a home valued at $600,000, the current annual property taxes from the EPO levy are approximately $1,290 per year (about $107.50 per month).
At the proposed 2027 rate of $2.49 per $1,000, a $600,000 home would pay approximately $1,494 per year (about $124.50 per month).
This represents an increase of approximately $204 per year, or about $17 more per month, for 2027.
Please note: In 2022, voters approved an Educational Programs & Operations levy with a maximum rate of $2.50 per $1,000 of assessed value. As property values increase, the rate of collection declines, which is why the district is currently collecting approximately $2.15 per $1,000. The proposed 2027 rate reflects a return closer to the voter-approved amount to account for inflationary cost increases since 2022.
Proposition 2 (Educational Facility Maintenance, Technology & Safety Levy)
The Educational Facility Maintenance, Technology & Safety Levy has an estimated 2027 rate of approximately $0.42 per $1,000.
For a $600,000 home, the current levy rate of approximately $0.41 per $1,000 results in an annual cost of about $246 per year.
At a $0.42 rate, the estimated annual cost would be approximately $252 per year in 2027.
This represents an increase of approximately $6 per year, or about $0.50 per month, in 2027.
Please note: levy tax rates typically decline as property values increase, as the district may only collect up to the total levy amount approved by voters.
🏠 Senior and Disability Tax Relief
Washington offers property-tax exemption and deferral programs for qualifying seniors and people with disabilities. More information is available through Skagit County Assessor resources.
If you are not registered to vote or need to update your address, you can do so through VoteWA.gov or the Skagit County Elections Office.
🔎 Want More Information?
Visit the Sedro-Woolley School District levy webpages:
https://www.swsd.k12.wa.us/page/replacement-levy-information
See initiatives funded by the 2021–2026 Capital Project Levy:
https://www.swsd.k12.wa.us/page/capital-levy-information
This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to advocate for or against any ballot measure.
