To the editor:

On Feb. 11 Island voters will be asked to approve an educational programs and operations levy as well as a technology levy. It is critical we pass these two measures now to provide the funding required to support our students and maintain the excellent programs offered by the Bainbridge Island School District.

As both an Avalara employee and as a mother who has a daughter enrolled in the Bainbridge system, I clearly see the need for educational programs that prepare our students to succeed in an increasingly competitive and technology-based environment. It’s important we invest in our future today by providing our students with excellent teachers, materials and equipment.

High quality communities have high quality public schools. We are very fortunate to live in a community that values and supports education. It is one of the attributes that makes Bainbridge Island a great place to live and work. Please join Avalara and me in voting “YES” on both measures.

KAREN SHERWOOD

Senior Director

Avalara