In February 2026, Vashon Island residents will be asked to vote on an Education Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy that renews critical funding for education programs and services all Vashon Island School District students engage with.

It is important to note that the 2026 EP&O Levy is not a new tax. It renews an expiring tax that provides local funding for critical education programs and services that are not covered by state and federal dollars, including but not limited to additional costs of special education, school nurses, counselors, librarians, arts and music programs, transportation for field trips, athletics, insurance, heating and lighting costs, office supplies, and teachers and staff beyond what the state’s funding model supports.

Local funds from the EP&O Levy comprise approximately 17 percent of VISD’s current budget.