Oak Harbor Schools Levy is Based on Community Priorities
Election day is just around the corner! On February 11, our community will consider voting to renew the Oak Harbor school levy. Our current levy expires at the end of 2025.
Our local levy makes up approximately 12% of our overall budget and provides funding to maintain operations and essential student programs not funded or fully funded by the State of Washington. The OHPS educational programs and operations levy is locally controlled and directly goes to our school programs and services based on the community priorities outlined in our strategic plan and to fill critical budget gaps in school funding.
The local levy provides funding for every school and includes:
School nurses, mental health counselors, and school safety enhancements
Special education, paraeducators, academic counselors, and smaller class sizes
Student programs like athletics, intramurals, visual and performing arts
Classroom technology, Chromebooks, and curriculum software
School Board President Lynn Goebel is a 1976 graduate of Coronado High School in Lubbock, Texas. She recently shared about her experience as a student and how it impacted her future.
"My favorite school memories are being a high school athlete and working on the yearbook staff," said President Goebel. "Ms. Wells, my high school basketball coach, and Mrs. Wilson, my yearbook advisor were the teachers who believed in me and always encouraged me to be a leader. I will always be grateful for their confidence in me as a high school student."
Thank you to our dedicated volunteer school board for your leadership and for ensuring that Oak Harbor Public Schools upholds our commitment to provide a challenging, supportive, and innovative learning environment where all students are empowered to thrive and reach their fullest potential.
School attendance is important but sometimes it is necessary to keep your child home to ensure their health and the well-being of others. Here are some signs that it may be time for a sick day:
Winter weather on the island can fluctuate dramatically and our students spend time outside throughout the year. We recommend sending your child to school with layers, including a well-insulated jacket, hat, and gloves during winter months.
Missing items? Don't forget to check in with your school's Lost & Found!
Matt Klope, accomplished Wildlife Biologist and owner of Whidbey Taxidermy, presented to Ms. Boswell and Ms. Scheepers classes at Oak Harbor Intermediate School. His presentation included local mammal skins, skulls, and live mounts. Through his interactive questioning, lecture, and hands-on experiences, students learned more about Whidbey Island's ecosystem.
Ms. Christenson's 4th-grade students at Crescent Harbor Elementary are working hard to increase their reading fluency and comprehension skills.
Each student recently reached their nightly reading goal and the entire class celebrated together with a Reader's Tea that included cookies, tea, hot cocoa, and special guests who discussed the importance of reading and how it applies to their careers and hobbies. They also received a certificate and a new book!
Guest speakers included Principal Mr. Weinsheimer, Dean Mr. Garcia, Food Services Staff Mrs. Lopez, School Resource Officer Mr. Adamson, and Occupational Therapist Assistant Ms. Brown. Thank you for sharing your stories!
Summit Assistance Dogs often visit our schools and brighten everyone's day. This week new service puppies-in-training had their first outing at Exceptional Academy to educate our students about the importance of service animals.
