Seattle Families and Education Levy renewal proposal includes 235M for school safety

Seattle City Council will hold a public hearing Monday on a $1. 3 billion renewal of the Families and Education Levy, with a vote scheduled for the November ballot. Mayor Bruce Harrell's proposal aims to double the levy size from 2018, focusing on expanding childcare access and educational resources. Key components include $235 million for school safety investments, which come in response to gun violence incidents affecting students. The plan includes enhancing youth mental health services through school-based health centers and telehealth support.

It also proposes creating a new Path to Trades program for skilled trades careers and free tuition for Seattle public school graduates at Seattle Colleges. Following the tragic slaying of a student last year, officials are exploring the return of community resource officers to schools. The mayor's office has emphasized a focus on community-based safety teams rather than traditional police presence. The outcome of the levy proposal will significantly impact Seattle's educational landscape and safety protocols.