Investing in Our Schools: Capital Levy Projects Moving Forward Despite Bond Election Outcome

We sincerely thank the Puyallup School District community for your continued engagement and commitment to our schools. While Proposition 1, the recent bond measure, received majority approval, it did not meet the state-mandated validation requirement necessary for passage. Bond measures require both a supermajority (60% + 1 vote) and a minimum voter turnout based on participation in the previous general election. Unfortunately, the turnout threshold was not met for a second time.

Despite this, our dedication to providing safe, functional, and future-ready learning environments remains strong.

What’s Next? Continuing Essential School Improvements

The approval of the 2024 Capital Levy ensures that we can move forward with critical mechanical and small project upgrades across our district. Capital Levy funds support projects such as roof repairs, heating and cooling system improvements, and security enhancements. However, to fully address overcrowding and aging infrastructure, funding for new or replacement schools will still be needed in the future.

As we plan for the road ahead, we will carefully assess our current school buildings—including Spinning and Waller Road Elementary—to determine when ongoing maintenance costs outweigh the benefits of continued repairs. The school board has commissioned the School Capacity and Utilization Task Force to develop scenarios by January 2026 for housing students should a change be needed. Additionally, we will evaluate strategies and explore solutions for managing enrollment growth at Northwood and Mt. View Elementary in the expanding North Hill area and serving the Sunrise Master Plan region, where new housing developments will add even more students to already crowded schools.

While a bond would have provided comprehensive solutions, we remain committed to finding innovative ways to ensure every student has the space and resources they need to thrive.

Capital Levy Projects: Investing in Our Schools Today

Even without additional bond funding, we are moving forward with voter-approved capital levy projects to replace, improve, and restore valuable public infrastructure:

Building Improvements: Addressing essential repairs and upgrades to aging school facilities.
Technology Upgrades: Enhancing digital tools and infrastructure to support student learning.
Safety and Security Enhancements: Strengthening security measures to keep students and staff safe.
Site and Traffic Improvements: Improving school access, parking, and traffic flow.
Outdoor Enhancements: Upgrading playgrounds, athletic facilities, and outdoor learning spaces.

These projects are already in progress, and we encourage our community to stay updated at www.puyallupsd.org/levy.

Stay Involved: Planning for the Future

As we move forward, community input remains vital. The School Capacity and Utilization Task Force is actively analyzing enrollment trends and facility needs to identify solutions while we await future capital funding opportunities. Learn more at www.puyallupsd.org/SCUT.

Our mission—to prepare and empower every student to reach their full potential and thrive in school, society, work, and life—remains unchanged. A key part of that mission is ensuring that students and staff have safe, well-maintained, and welcoming spaces in which to learn and grow.

Facilities, safety, and security remain a strategic priority for the Puyallup School District. We are committed to the timely repair and maintenance of our schools and support facilities, recognizing that a clean, functional, and secure environment is essential for student success. By upholding high standards for excellence and responsive service, we will continue to invest in the infrastructure that enables teaching, learning, and community engagement.

We deeply appreciate the support of our families and community and look forward to working together to create the best possible learning environments for our students.

Is there financial assistance available for property taxes?

Yes! Low-income and people experiencing disabilities or other qualifying circumstances may qualify for tax relief, exemption, or deferral.

Call the Pierce County Tax Exemptions Office at (253) 798-2169 or visit the Pierce County Elections website to apply for this exemption Pierce County Elections website. 

How much will be collected each year?

The six-year Capital levy is authorized to collect

$25,700,000 in 2025
$27,000,000 in 2026
$28,400,000 in 2027
$29,700,000 in 2028
$31,400,000 in 2029
$32,800,000 in 2030

We extend our sincerest gratitude for your trust and investment in Puyallup Schools! This was the district's third attempt to secure funding for these critical school construction and system maintenance projects. Previous attempts received close results but did not reach the 50% plus 1 vote required for approval. Again, thank you for your trust and support, and for investing in education.

Continue to follow Foundations for Our Future for updates on restoration, improvements, and replacements at your school.

Stay connected and learn more through these links: