Get your questions answered
If you'd like to see a question added to this list, please email us at [email protected]
For more detailed information on the bond, please visit the Mercer Island School District website.
For more detailed information on the bond, please visit the Mercer Island School District website.
We'd like you to know all about the bond, how it impacts you and our community, what will be built, and a bit about the amazing Mercer Island students. Plus, we've done some fact checking you may be interested in. Click the buttons for the facts on the bond.
Financial
1. Did you know that Mercer Island has the lowest tax rate for schools on the Eastside?
Mercer Island taxpayers pay 20-60% less in local school taxes than Bellevue, Issaquah, Lake Washington and Northshore School Districts.
The current rate is $1.44 per thousand of assessed value. With the April 2025 Bond, the rate would be $1.89 per thousand.
Let's compare that to other Eastside districts.
The Issaquah School District rate is $3.14 per thousand, so school taxes would still be 66% higher in Issaquah than on Mercer Island with voter approved of the April 2025 bond.
Let's compare tax rates with the 21 school districts across Washington State with a comparable total assessed property values. Mercer Island's rate is the lowest, 21st on the list. After the bond passes, we'd be 19th out of the 21 districts.
Let's compare tax rates with the 19 school districts in King County. Mercer Island's tax rate is 18th, nearly the lowest with only one other district having a lower rate. After the bond passes, we'd still be 17th out of the 19 districts.
Data below is a little blurry. It's from Piper Sandler.
2. Did you know THAT MERCER ISLAND PAYS 30-54% LESS THAN ALL OTHER EaSTSIDE SCHOOL DISTRICTS?
The local school property tax is a combination of all voter approved school bonds and levies. On Mercer Island, our rate is $1.44 per $1000 of assessed value. For a $2.2M home, that's $3,168 in local schools taxes. The local tax rates for Eastside districts range from $2.12 to $3.14 per $1000.
If you own a home on Mercer Island, you currently pay 30-54% less in local school property taxes than residents who own comparably priced homes in neighboring Eastside School Districts.
If you own a home on Mercer Island, you currently pay 30-54% less in local school property taxes than residents who own comparably priced homes in neighboring Eastside School Districts.
3. Did you know that MISD is STABILIZING our school tax rate across levies and bonds?
After the bond passes, the tax rate for schools will be $1.89 per $1000 assessed value. As EP&O levies and CapTech levies expire (these can only be 2-6 years), the voters will be asked to approve replacement levies. Your tax rate is planned to remain stable at $1.89.
This is demonstrated financial responsibility, designed for a stable tax rate and for keeping our schools outstanding for our students.
This is demonstrated financial responsibility, designed for a stable tax rate and for keeping our schools outstanding for our students.
4. Did you know that the last bond for improving Mercer Island School buildings was in 2014?
In 2014, Mercer Island approved a bond to build Northwood Elementary, build 1/2 of IMS, and add 12 classrooms to MIHS. That bond has been restructured (saving taxpayers $1.5M), and the bond is being paid off in 15-years rather than 20-years.
Now it's time to build the other 1/2 of IMS. Our community decided this was the financially responsible thing to do 11-years ago, and this bond finishes IMS and does some improvements to the 70-year old MIHS.
Now it's time to build the other 1/2 of IMS. Our community decided this was the financially responsible thing to do 11-years ago, and this bond finishes IMS and does some improvements to the 70-year old MIHS.
5. Did you know there's a difference between a Capital Bond and a CapTech Levy?
Hang on, it's easy. There are 3 voter approved ways to fund schools: Bonds, CapTech Levy, and EP&O Levy. The combinations of these three support a local school district. Washington State also provides funding, and for MISD that's about 70% of the annual MISD General Fund. OK, here are the 3 ways voters approve school funding, and you'll see the differences between a CapTech Levy and a Bond.
Technology & Facilities Capital Projects Levy (CapTech): These levies can be offered for voter approval every 2-6 years. These levy funds are available on an annual basis to school districts. Funds can be used for capital improvements (boilers, roof, HVAC), but are not large enough to build buildings or do major renovations. CapTech funds can also be used for some school district salaries, such as IT staff and some Maintenance & Operations positions. Please note: Every school district that has a CapTech levy transfers CapTech funds into their General Fund for the approved salaries....otherwise the rules require 2 paychecks, 2 W-2s, and other chaos. MISD does this in accordance with state rules and this passes audit.
Educational Programs and Operations Levy (EP&O): Can be offered for voter approval every 2-4 years. These levy funds are available on an annual basis to school districts. Funds can be used for educational programs (including salaries) and operations (e.g. insurance, utilities bills, transportation).: The McCleary decision caps the amount that a district can raise with EP&O levies.
Capital Bond. Bonds build buildings and do major renovations. There is no other method for funding buildings. No funding for construction comes from the state. Bonds are sold, and then the school district services the debt. All the funds come to the school district when the bonds are sold, much like your ability to buy a house and then pay the mortgage.
Technology & Facilities Capital Projects Levy (CapTech): These levies can be offered for voter approval every 2-6 years. These levy funds are available on an annual basis to school districts. Funds can be used for capital improvements (boilers, roof, HVAC), but are not large enough to build buildings or do major renovations. CapTech funds can also be used for some school district salaries, such as IT staff and some Maintenance & Operations positions. Please note: Every school district that has a CapTech levy transfers CapTech funds into their General Fund for the approved salaries....otherwise the rules require 2 paychecks, 2 W-2s, and other chaos. MISD does this in accordance with state rules and this passes audit.
Educational Programs and Operations Levy (EP&O): Can be offered for voter approval every 2-4 years. These levy funds are available on an annual basis to school districts. Funds can be used for educational programs (including salaries) and operations (e.g. insurance, utilities bills, transportation).: The McCleary decision caps the amount that a district can raise with EP&O levies.
Capital Bond. Bonds build buildings and do major renovations. There is no other method for funding buildings. No funding for construction comes from the state. Bonds are sold, and then the school district services the debt. All the funds come to the school district when the bonds are sold, much like your ability to buy a house and then pay the mortgage.
6. Did you know that there may be some state funding to support the construction?
Washington State does not pay for school construction or renovation. However, the state provides what is called SCAP (School Construction Assistance Program) funding for schools once they have reached 30-years of age, or 30-years since the last major remodel. The formula is based on enrollment, allowable square feet per enrolled student, and the SCAP dollars per allowable square foot. This total is then factored by the district’s match percentage. For IMS, the district should be eligible for up to $4M in funding. The district will apply for and diligently pursue every dollar available, but there are no guarantees when OSPI will reimburse. The district has committed to front funding the project and using the state funds to pay down the bonds which will reduce the cost for Mercer Island taxpayers.
Why Now? What does a "NO" vote mean?
1. Do you know what a NO vote means?
MIHS is 70-years old, originally built in 1954. IMS, built in 1958, is almost 70-years old. Buildings that are this old must have renovations to preserve their lifespan.
Higher costs. A NO vote means that maintenance and improvements will simply cost more later.
Learning spaces. A NO vote means that students won't have suitable learning spaces to meet their learning needs.
Out of compliance. A NO vote means that known accessibility issues, fire alarms, and HVAC systems remain as is.
Security. A NO vote means IMS remains in three buildings.
Higher costs. A NO vote means that maintenance and improvements will simply cost more later.
Learning spaces. A NO vote means that students won't have suitable learning spaces to meet their learning needs.
Out of compliance. A NO vote means that known accessibility issues, fire alarms, and HVAC systems remain as is.
Security. A NO vote means IMS remains in three buildings.
2. Did you know that school construction costs are projected to rise at a rate of 8% a year?
The proposed bond will be nearly 20% more expensive in two years. MIHS and IMS were originally built 70-years ago, and the need to update for compliance (ADA, fire alarm), HVAC, Security, etc. isn't going to go away.
3. Did you know that IMS and MIHS are SEPTUAGENARIANS?
MIHS was built in 1954, over 70-years ago. Classrooms and an auditorium were added in 1961 and 1967. Small additions occurred in 1978 and 1986. In 1997, all buildings were put under one roof. In 2014, robotics music, and classroom spaces were added. All school buildings need to evolve and have improvements, and this bond is part of the regular update cycle. The scope of work has an emphasis on compliance (ADA, fire alarm system), increased security, and flexible spaces that can be used for multiple purposes.
Originally built in 1958, and an honorary septuagenarian, Islander Middle School had a renovation in 2000 and a new addition from 2016. The update in 2000 impacted roughly half of the school. It was designed and built for the upcoming addition that is part of this bond measure.
Originally built in 1958, and an honorary septuagenarian, Islander Middle School had a renovation in 2000 and a new addition from 2016. The update in 2000 impacted roughly half of the school. It was designed and built for the upcoming addition that is part of this bond measure.
4. Did you know the school bond addresses security?
By putting all of IMS under one roof, students can more securely move throughout the school. The Crest school is also getting a vestibule for security.
Of course, the district also does security work with other funding sources, but this bond will have the most impact for securing our middle school students and those attending Crest.
Of course, the district also does security work with other funding sources, but this bond will have the most impact for securing our middle school students and those attending Crest.
Scope of Project
1. Did you know that the community was involved in creating the scope of this school bond?
This bond measure was developed after two years of study, working with a third-party architectural design firm, reducing the scope to be the essential needs, and five forums for public comment.
A group of educators, students, staff, community members, and architects have been working for throughout 2024 to identify needs, prioritize and make trade-offs, and settle on a plan that is fiscally responsible, complies with state requirements, and provides the continuation of the outstanding educational opportunities that are offered on Mercer Island.
A group of educators, students, staff, community members, and architects have been working for throughout 2024 to identify needs, prioritize and make trade-offs, and settle on a plan that is fiscally responsible, complies with state requirements, and provides the continuation of the outstanding educational opportunities that are offered on Mercer Island.
2. Did you know that the bond will build the remaining half of Islander Middle School?
19 new classrooms, 8 labs across all disciplines, including STEM, Science, Art, and Robotics for hands-on activities.
A Learning Commons with shared learning spaces for enhanced collaboration and creativity, shared learning resources, developing critical thinking skills, and to develop emerging programs.
Finishes IMS so that the school is under one roof, as originally envisioned and approved by voters in 2014. Provides a more secure environment for all of our students.
A Learning Commons with shared learning spaces for enhanced collaboration and creativity, shared learning resources, developing critical thinking skills, and to develop emerging programs.
Finishes IMS so that the school is under one roof, as originally envisioned and approved by voters in 2014. Provides a more secure environment for all of our students.
3. Did you know that portables are NOT part of the construction plan when the bond is approved?
Based on our construction window and current enrollment, students will not be in portables during the IMS and MIHS construction.
PLUS, construction is designed so students at IMS don't have to experience another round of construction at MIHS.
PLUS, construction is designed so students at IMS don't have to experience another round of construction at MIHS.
4. Did you know that an Elementary School study is included in the Bond?
$1.45M has been allocated in the bond to study what to do with the four elementary schools on the island. Given the ~10-year duration between bond requests, that provides time to understand our communities needs for elementary schools.
5. Did you know that all 4 elementary schools have been improved with our existing CapTech levy?
See MISD CapTech Improvements here. 2024 elementary school projects at Island Park, West Mercer, and Lakeridge included carpet replacement, boiler replacement, and classroom door security hardware improvements.
The Capital Projects & Technology Levy (CapTech) passed in 2022, and funds can be used for technology, smaller capital improvements, and salaries for some IT and Maintenance & Operations positions. This levy expires in 2028. This levy raises ~$8M/year. CapTech levies can run for 2-6 years.
CapTech levies cannot be used for construction or major renovations due to the smaller annual size of a CapTech levy. Only Bonds build buildings, and the State of Washington does not provide funding for building schools.
The Capital Projects & Technology Levy (CapTech) passed in 2022, and funds can be used for technology, smaller capital improvements, and salaries for some IT and Maintenance & Operations positions. This levy expires in 2028. This levy raises ~$8M/year. CapTech levies can run for 2-6 years.
CapTech levies cannot be used for construction or major renovations due to the smaller annual size of a CapTech levy. Only Bonds build buildings, and the State of Washington does not provide funding for building schools.
Mercer Island Students
1. Did you know that ONLY 12% of school aged residents on Mercer Island do not attend MISD?
Did you also know that's a completely normal number? For the affluence in our area, it's a low percentage.
MISD has 3900 amazing students enrolled.
Historically, it's a consistent percentage for Mercer Island. There are certainly students who are enrolled in MISD schools that receive private tutoring or instruction.
Ian Henry, MISD Communications Coordinator, would appreciate hearing directly from families who've chosen to send their children to private schools. You can schedule time with Ian by contacting him at [email protected]
MISD has 3900 amazing students enrolled.
Historically, it's a consistent percentage for Mercer Island. There are certainly students who are enrolled in MISD schools that receive private tutoring or instruction.
Ian Henry, MISD Communications Coordinator, would appreciate hearing directly from families who've chosen to send their children to private schools. You can schedule time with Ian by contacting him at [email protected]
2. Did you know that school enrollments are down across nearly all school districts?
ALL of our peer school districts have declining enrollment.
Primary reasons for the declines everywhere are birth rate, moving, and private schools.
We thought that the kindergarten class would be smaller this year because of declining birth rates, but to the district's surprise, we had more kinder enrollment than anticipated! We don’t have control over how many babies are born each year, but we do have control over our value proposition as a school district and safe, updated buildings are part of that.
Primary reasons for the declines everywhere are birth rate, moving, and private schools.
We thought that the kindergarten class would be smaller this year because of declining birth rates, but to the district's surprise, we had more kinder enrollment than anticipated! We don’t have control over how many babies are born each year, but we do have control over our value proposition as a school district and safe, updated buildings are part of that.
3. Did you KNow that academic achievement in Mercer Island Schools is Higher than pre-covid (2019-2020)?
- Grades 3-5 Math and English Language Arts (ELA) indicators are almost all higher than 2019-20.
- All grades, Math and ELA are mostly higher than surrounding districts (Bellevue, Issaquah, Lake Washington, Bainbridge Island, Snoqualmie Valley and Tahoma).
- AP Participation and scores (3 or higher) are all trending higher and most are higher than pre-COVID.
- SAT and ACT test scores are all higher than 2019-20.
- On-time graduation rates are at their highest level in 5 years (97.2%).
See the data here:
2024-2025 Profile AP Addendum, 2024-2025 Fundamental Profile, 2024-2025 Key Performance Indicators Comparison
- All grades, Math and ELA are mostly higher than surrounding districts (Bellevue, Issaquah, Lake Washington, Bainbridge Island, Snoqualmie Valley and Tahoma).
- AP Participation and scores (3 or higher) are all trending higher and most are higher than pre-COVID.
- SAT and ACT test scores are all higher than 2019-20.
- On-time graduation rates are at their highest level in 5 years (97.2%).
See the data here:
2024-2025 Profile AP Addendum, 2024-2025 Fundamental Profile, 2024-2025 Key Performance Indicators Comparison
Is it True?
Is it true that MISD has 'Declining academic performance' and 1 in 4 students fail Math and Science Grade-Level Knowledge? No.
There's a claim that 25% of students fail Math and Science Grade-Level Knowledge per the OSPI report card. This is not true. Using the same data source to make this claim, the Math, Science, and English Language Arts (ELA) percentage of students below grade level hover around 5% for MISD, with 2-3 times that for Bellevue. OPSI Data
Of course, the goal is that all students are at meeting grade level standards; and MISD has an excellent track record of identifying and assisting students that need additional support.
This Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve secure, safe, compliant spaces to learn.
Of course, the goal is that all students are at meeting grade level standards; and MISD has an excellent track record of identifying and assisting students that need additional support.
This Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve secure, safe, compliant spaces to learn.
IS IT TRUE THAT THE BOND Projects have no direct linkage to improving academic performance? No.
The claim is that the scope of the bond doesn’t have a link to improving academic performance. That’s not true.
Students can certainly learn in old buildings. However, students deserve to have buildings with functioning HVAC, fire alarm systems, and plumbing. It’s likely that everyone can agree on that.
There are also numerous evidence-based studies which do connect increased academic performance to the school learning spaces.
Let's be clear, the Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve secure, safe, compliant spaces to learn.
Here’s a couple of the studies:
Furthermore, students are learning differently these days. There are traditional classrooms in every building where a teacher lectures and the students listen. It's also true that today’s learning experiences are far more collaborative. Students are increasingly working together in small groups; and this Bond creates small, medium, and large spaces for that. Some spaces are very open and some small spaces allow for doors to be closed so that the students can concentrate.
The award-winning performing arts programs at MI Schools have been booming, and the spaces reserved for choir, band, orchestra, etc. are far too small and poor acoustically. At IMS, students are playing their instruments in the halls because they have no place else to go.
There spaces for the sciences at both IMS and MIHS are also inadequate and insufficient for the volume of kids that want to be in those programs. For example, the Robotics Club has lots many kids trying to make learn in very limited space. Same for the Radio Club which now has over 150 students.
Students can certainly learn in old buildings. However, students deserve to have buildings with functioning HVAC, fire alarm systems, and plumbing. It’s likely that everyone can agree on that.
There are also numerous evidence-based studies which do connect increased academic performance to the school learning spaces.
Let's be clear, the Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve secure, safe, compliant spaces to learn.
Here’s a couple of the studies:
- ResearchGate: An older study examining the relationship between school building conditions and student achievement and behavior, highlighting the effects of environmental factors such as thermal environment, illumination, space, and equipment on students.
researchgate.net - American Institute of Architects (AIA): This article discusses research linking modernized school environments to improved academic performance, well-being, and community strengthening.
aia.org - Scientific Research Publishing: A study indicating that students perform better in schools that have been recently built or renovated compared to older schools, emphasizing the positive relationship between modern facilities and student achievement.
scirp.org
Furthermore, students are learning differently these days. There are traditional classrooms in every building where a teacher lectures and the students listen. It's also true that today’s learning experiences are far more collaborative. Students are increasingly working together in small groups; and this Bond creates small, medium, and large spaces for that. Some spaces are very open and some small spaces allow for doors to be closed so that the students can concentrate.
The award-winning performing arts programs at MI Schools have been booming, and the spaces reserved for choir, band, orchestra, etc. are far too small and poor acoustically. At IMS, students are playing their instruments in the halls because they have no place else to go.
There spaces for the sciences at both IMS and MIHS are also inadequate and insufficient for the volume of kids that want to be in those programs. For example, the Robotics Club has lots many kids trying to make learn in very limited space. Same for the Radio Club which now has over 150 students.
Is it true that MISD has 'Declining academic performance', indicative of enrollment decreasing? No.
The claim that fewer students are in the district because of declining academic performance is not valid. Academic achievement is extremely strong for the students in the MISD. Furthermore, this Bond is for the school buildings that support academic performance.
Let's look at the facts. Between the 2018-2019 and 2024-2025 school years, enrollments have dropped in all Eastside school districts, except Lake Washington (LWSD) which increased by 1%. This is using the same OSPI data that asserted this false claim regarding academic performance and enrollment. Note that school districts with fewer students have higher percentages, and Bainbridge is included for reference as it has a similar student size.
There has been a decline in student-age children on Mercer Island, with several factors cited by parents. The private school percentage of around 12% remains at historic levels.
Let's look at the facts. Between the 2018-2019 and 2024-2025 school years, enrollments have dropped in all Eastside school districts, except Lake Washington (LWSD) which increased by 1%. This is using the same OSPI data that asserted this false claim regarding academic performance and enrollment. Note that school districts with fewer students have higher percentages, and Bainbridge is included for reference as it has a similar student size.
There has been a decline in student-age children on Mercer Island, with several factors cited by parents. The private school percentage of around 12% remains at historic levels.
Is it true that the bond doesn't show the entire funding picture? No.
Piper Sandler is the firm that has done the financial analysis for the bond. The funding picture is transparent and clear.
Your school tax rate will increase from $1.44 to $1.89 for the bond. This school tax rate is the LOWEST of all Eastside districts, even AFTER the bond passes. The district is demonstrating fiscal responsibility by leveling the school tax rate over time. The district is demonstrating fiscal responsibility by keeping your tax rate low while maintaining and improving our 70-year old middle school and high school through this bond.
Your school tax rate will increase from $1.44 to $1.89 for the bond. This school tax rate is the LOWEST of all Eastside districts, even AFTER the bond passes. The district is demonstrating fiscal responsibility by leveling the school tax rate over time. The district is demonstrating fiscal responsibility by keeping your tax rate low while maintaining and improving our 70-year old middle school and high school through this bond.
Is it True that there are KNOWN Future BONDs in this plan? NO
There's a claim that there are known bonds for hundreds of millions in 2027, 2029, and 2031. The claim is that there are future funding projections for the school district as follows: $116MM Bond in 2027, $136MM bond in 2029, and $150MM bond in 2031.
This is all fabricated.
The way planning works, including the planning that occurred in the district's Long-Range Facilities Plan, is that several options are considered in order to hone in on the right fiscally responsible plan for our students. Four scenarios were developed, and one was approved to proceed to costing and consideration for a bond. Read about the scenarios considered and the planning process here.
This is all fabricated.
The way planning works, including the planning that occurred in the district's Long-Range Facilities Plan, is that several options are considered in order to hone in on the right fiscally responsible plan for our students. Four scenarios were developed, and one was approved to proceed to costing and consideration for a bond. Read about the scenarios considered and the planning process here.
IS IT TRUE THAT Approving the bond will give the wrong signal to the School Board’s oversight? No.
School Board Directors are elected by voters. If you have an issue with a School Board Director, use those elections.
The MISD students need secure, safe, compliant buildings; and approving this Bond gives students what they deserve.
Note that the School Board Directors do not manage construction.
Note that the School Board Directors are prohibited from moving bond funds for other uses.
MISD will create and maintain a separate line item for each Bond issuance (bonds are sold as the funds are needed), and the construction management team determines when funds are needed and used for payment. This is best practice for financial responsibility.
Brandy Fox is the project manager and owner’s representative for MISD. She has managed every major capital improvement for MISD schools since 1995, and every one of them has been on budget.
The MISD students need secure, safe, compliant buildings; and approving this Bond gives students what they deserve.
Note that the School Board Directors do not manage construction.
Note that the School Board Directors are prohibited from moving bond funds for other uses.
MISD will create and maintain a separate line item for each Bond issuance (bonds are sold as the funds are needed), and the construction management team determines when funds are needed and used for payment. This is best practice for financial responsibility.
Brandy Fox is the project manager and owner’s representative for MISD. She has managed every major capital improvement for MISD schools since 1995, and every one of them has been on budget.
IS it true that THIS bond is Un-Focused and not accountable? No.
Mercer Island voters definitely want school bonds to be well-defined and right-sized.
Is the April 2025 well defined?
Yes. The scope is well defined, costed, and the timeline for construction has been planned. The April 2025 bond will provide a secure, safe, and compliant school environment for IMS and MIHS which all of our students can thrive. The bond includes $1MM for studying and planning for what to do with the 3 aging elementary schools in the future. See the details on the scope here.
Is the April 2025 Bond right-sized?
Yes. At $165MM, the bond is LESS in today’s dollars than the previous 2012 bond. School tax rates REMAIN the LOWEST on the Eastside, even after the bond is passed.
Contrast this bond with some of the XL bond measures that did not pass.
Is the April 2025 well defined?
Yes. The scope is well defined, costed, and the timeline for construction has been planned. The April 2025 bond will provide a secure, safe, and compliant school environment for IMS and MIHS which all of our students can thrive. The bond includes $1MM for studying and planning for what to do with the 3 aging elementary schools in the future. See the details on the scope here.
Is the April 2025 Bond right-sized?
Yes. At $165MM, the bond is LESS in today’s dollars than the previous 2012 bond. School tax rates REMAIN the LOWEST on the Eastside, even after the bond is passed.
Contrast this bond with some of the XL bond measures that did not pass.
- - The 1990 bond measure, extra large in scope and cost, was rejected by voters. After the 1990 failure, bonds were passed in 1993, 1994, and 1996 to do the scope in smaller and defined pieces.
- - The 2012 bond was offered to voters, and it was also extra large in scope and cost. It was to REPLACE the middle school, REPLACE all 3 elementary schools, and add 12-classrooms to the high school. The 2012 bond measure failed, and then the 2014 Bond passed with a 74% approval by voters. The 2014 bond was right-sized and well-defined: HALF of the middle school, a NEW elementary (Northwood), and 12-classrooms in the high school. The 2014 bond was for $98.8MM, which is $172MM in today’s dollars.
Is it True?
is it true that mISD has "declining academic performance" and 1 in 4 students fail Math and Science Grade-Level Knowledge? NO.
The claim of declining MISD academic performance is not valid.
The claim that 25% of MISD students are failing to meet grade-level standards per OSPI data is completely false.
Using OPSI Data, the Math, Science, and English Language Arts (ELA) percentage of students below grade level hover around 5% for MISD, with 2-3 times that for Bellevue.
Of course, we want all students to be achieving at or above grade-level. MISD identifies and provides students with additional support if they are not meeting grade-level knowledge.
The Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve secure, safe, compliant spaces to learn.
The claim that 25% of MISD students are failing to meet grade-level standards per OSPI data is completely false.
Using OPSI Data, the Math, Science, and English Language Arts (ELA) percentage of students below grade level hover around 5% for MISD, with 2-3 times that for Bellevue.
Of course, we want all students to be achieving at or above grade-level. MISD identifies and provides students with additional support if they are not meeting grade-level knowledge.
The Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve secure, safe, compliant spaces to learn.
IS IT TRUE THAT THE Scope of the bond has no direct linkage to improving academic performance? No.
The claim is that the scope of the bond doesn’t improve academic performance. That’s not true.
Students can certainly learn in old buildings. However, students deserve to have buildings with functioning HVAC, fire alarm systems, and plumbing. It’s likely that everyone can agree on that.
There are numerous evidence-based studies which do connect increased academic performance to the school learning spaces.
Here’s a couple of the studies:
Students are learning differently these days. There are traditional classrooms in every building where a teacher lectures, and students listen. However, today’s learning is far more collaborative.
Students are increasingly working together in small groups; and this Bond creates small, medium, and large spaces for that. Some spaces are very open and some small spaces allow for doors to be closed so that the kids can concentrate.
The award-winning performing arts programs at MI Schools have been booming, yet the spaces reserved for choir, band, orchestra, etc. are far too small and poor acoustically. At IMS, kids are playing their instruments in the halls because they have no place else to go.
The spaces for the sciences at both IMS and MIHS are also inadequate and insufficient for the volume of kids that want to be in those programs. For example, the robotics program has more students than the very limited space accommodates. The radio program now has over 150 students, and adequate space is needed.
This Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve spaces to learn.
Students can certainly learn in old buildings. However, students deserve to have buildings with functioning HVAC, fire alarm systems, and plumbing. It’s likely that everyone can agree on that.
There are numerous evidence-based studies which do connect increased academic performance to the school learning spaces.
Here’s a couple of the studies:
- ResearchGate: A older study examining the relationship between school building conditions and student achievement and behavior, highlighting the effects of environmental factors such as thermal environment, illumination, space, and equipment on students.
researchgate.net - American Institute of Architects (AIA): This article discusses research linking modernized school environments to improved academic performance, well-being, and community strengthening.
aia.org - Scientific Research Publishing: A study indicating that students perform better in schools that have been recently built or renovated compared to older schools, emphasizing the positive relationship between modern facilities and student achievement.
scirp.org
Students are learning differently these days. There are traditional classrooms in every building where a teacher lectures, and students listen. However, today’s learning is far more collaborative.
Students are increasingly working together in small groups; and this Bond creates small, medium, and large spaces for that. Some spaces are very open and some small spaces allow for doors to be closed so that the kids can concentrate.
The award-winning performing arts programs at MI Schools have been booming, yet the spaces reserved for choir, band, orchestra, etc. are far too small and poor acoustically. At IMS, kids are playing their instruments in the halls because they have no place else to go.
The spaces for the sciences at both IMS and MIHS are also inadequate and insufficient for the volume of kids that want to be in those programs. For example, the robotics program has more students than the very limited space accommodates. The radio program now has over 150 students, and adequate space is needed.
This Bond is for the buildings. Our students deserve spaces to learn.
is it true that MISD Has "declining academic performance" indicative of enrollment decreasing? No.
The claim that fewer students are in the district because of declining academic performance is not valid.
Between the 2018-2019 and 2024-2025 school years, enrollments have dropped in all Eastside school districts, except Lake Washington (LWSD) which increased by 1%. Note that districts with fewer students had a larger percent enrollment decline. Bainbridge is included because it is a comparable size to MISD. OPSI data.
Between the 2018-2019 and 2024-2025 school years, enrollments have dropped in all Eastside school districts, except Lake Washington (LWSD) which increased by 1%. Note that districts with fewer students had a larger percent enrollment decline. Bainbridge is included because it is a comparable size to MISD. OPSI data.
is it true that the Bond Does not show the entire funding picture? No.
Piper|Sandler is the firm that serves as a financial advisor to the Mercer Island School District (MISD), assisting with bond-related financial strategies, planning, issuance, and compliance. All bond related data and analysis is transparent and available.
Mercer Island school taxes are currently $1.44 (2025) and would increase to $1.89 (2026) with the voter's approval of the Bond.
Mercer Island school taxes are currently the LOWEST on the Eastside. And, after the bond passed the school tax rate remains the LOWEST.
MISD is demonstrating fiscal responsibility by
- Keeping the Mercer Island school taxes the lowest on the Eastside, even after the bond passes.
- Leveling the school taxes over time, providing predictability for taxpayers.
- Refinancing existing debt to save taxpayers $1.5MM.
Mercer Island school taxes are currently $1.44 (2025) and would increase to $1.89 (2026) with the voter's approval of the Bond.
Mercer Island school taxes are currently the LOWEST on the Eastside. And, after the bond passed the school tax rate remains the LOWEST.
MISD is demonstrating fiscal responsibility by
- Keeping the Mercer Island school taxes the lowest on the Eastside, even after the bond passes.
- Leveling the school taxes over time, providing predictability for taxpayers.
- Refinancing existing debt to save taxpayers $1.5MM.
is it true that there are future bonds planned for hundreds of millions of dollars? No.
The claim that the Long-Range Facility Plan includes future school bonds of $116MM in 2027, $136MM in 2029, and $150MM in 2031 is simply fabricated.
Here's how planning works: multiple options are considered with cost estimates, and then an option is selected. That's likely the same thing you do for your own home projects.
There were several options considered in order to hone in on the right plan over the last few years. Four scenarios were covered in the Long-Range Facility Plan, and Option C was selected for detailed costing as the bond proposal.
Here's how planning works: multiple options are considered with cost estimates, and then an option is selected. That's likely the same thing you do for your own home projects.
There were several options considered in order to hone in on the right plan over the last few years. Four scenarios were covered in the Long-Range Facility Plan, and Option C was selected for detailed costing as the bond proposal.
is it true that Approving the bond will give the wrong signal to the School Board’s oversight? No.
School Board Directors are elected by voters. If you have an issue with a School Board Director, use those elections.
The MISD students need secure, safe, compliant buildings with appropriate learning spaces; and opinion of the school board is not a reason to deny students what they deserve.
School Board Directors do not manage school construction. School Board Directors are prohibited from moving bond funds for other uses.
Following best practices, MISD will be creating a separate line item for each Bond issuance, as bonds are sold when the funding is needed.
Brandy Fox is the project manager and MISD representative for these projects. She will determine when funding is needed and when contractors are paid by the district. She has managed every major capital improvement for MISD schools since 1995, and every one of them has been on budget.
The MISD students need secure, safe, compliant buildings with appropriate learning spaces; and opinion of the school board is not a reason to deny students what they deserve.
School Board Directors do not manage school construction. School Board Directors are prohibited from moving bond funds for other uses.
Following best practices, MISD will be creating a separate line item for each Bond issuance, as bonds are sold when the funding is needed.
Brandy Fox is the project manager and MISD representative for these projects. She will determine when funding is needed and when contractors are paid by the district. She has managed every major capital improvement for MISD schools since 1995, and every one of them has been on budget.
is it true that the bond is un-focused and not accountable? No.
Mercer Island voters definitely want school bonds to be well-defined and right-sized.
Is the April 2025 Bond well defined?
Yes. The scope is well defined, costed, and the timeline for construction has been planned. The April 2025 bond will provide a secure, safe, and compliant school environment for IMS and MIHS which all of our students enjoy. The bond includes $1MM for studying and planning for what to do with the 3 aging elementary schools in the future.
Is the April 2025 Bond right-sized?
Yes. At $165MM, the bond is LESS in today’s dollars than the previously approved 2014 bond. The bond does not include all the things that the community wanted, rather it includes the high-impact, safety, and compliance related items that will serve every student in the district as they go through middle and high school. Plus, school tax rates REMAIN the LOWEST on the Eastside, even after the bond is passed.
Mercer Island voters have rejected two bond proposals in the last 35-years. This Bond reflects what has been learned from voters: well defined and right-sized bonds are supported by voters.
- The 1990 bond was extra large in scope and cost, and it was rejected by voters. After the 1990 failure, bonds were passed in 1993, 1994, and 1996 to do the scope in smaller more well-defined pieces.
- The 2012 bond also extra large in scope and cost. It was to REPLACE the middle school, REPLACE ALL 3 elementary schools, and add 12-classrooms to the high school. After the 2012 failure, a 2014 Bond passed with a 74% approval by voters. The 2014 bond was right-sized to HALF of the middle school, a NEW elementary (Northwood), and 12-classrooms in the high school. The 2014 bond was $98.8MM, which is $172MM in today’s dollars.
Is the April 2025 Bond well defined?
Yes. The scope is well defined, costed, and the timeline for construction has been planned. The April 2025 bond will provide a secure, safe, and compliant school environment for IMS and MIHS which all of our students enjoy. The bond includes $1MM for studying and planning for what to do with the 3 aging elementary schools in the future.
Is the April 2025 Bond right-sized?
Yes. At $165MM, the bond is LESS in today’s dollars than the previously approved 2014 bond. The bond does not include all the things that the community wanted, rather it includes the high-impact, safety, and compliance related items that will serve every student in the district as they go through middle and high school. Plus, school tax rates REMAIN the LOWEST on the Eastside, even after the bond is passed.
Mercer Island voters have rejected two bond proposals in the last 35-years. This Bond reflects what has been learned from voters: well defined and right-sized bonds are supported by voters.
- The 1990 bond was extra large in scope and cost, and it was rejected by voters. After the 1990 failure, bonds were passed in 1993, 1994, and 1996 to do the scope in smaller more well-defined pieces.
- The 2012 bond also extra large in scope and cost. It was to REPLACE the middle school, REPLACE ALL 3 elementary schools, and add 12-classrooms to the high school. After the 2012 failure, a 2014 Bond passed with a 74% approval by voters. The 2014 bond was right-sized to HALF of the middle school, a NEW elementary (Northwood), and 12-classrooms in the high school. The 2014 bond was $98.8MM, which is $172MM in today’s dollars.