10/21/2026
Summary of Dr. Ivan Duran’s Presentation to the Rotary Club of Des Moines–Normandy Park
Dr. Ivan Duran, superintendent of Highline Public Schools since 2022, presented an informational overview of the district’s proposed 2026 school construction bond and capital technology levy, which voters will consider on November 3, 2026.
Highline Public Schools serves more than 17,500 students across 34 schools in Burien, Des Moines, SeaTac, Normandy Park and White Center. Dr. Duran outlined the district’s commitment to ensuring every student feels welcomed, supported and prepared for the future.
Two proposed funding measures
- Proposition 1: School Construction Bond — $595.4 million. The proposed bond would replace or renovate aging school facilities, improve safety, and address critical infrastructure needs. Major projects include rebuilding Sylvester and Cascade middle schools, partially rebuilding and renovating Chinook Middle School, and modernizing CHOICE Academy. Funding would also support future design work for Hilltop Elementary and Valley View Early Learning Center, along with districtwide repairs to roofs, heating and ventilation systems, plumbing, electrical systems and other essential building needs.
- Proposition 2: Capital Technology Levy — $48 million over four years. The proposed levy would provide $12 million annually from 2027 through 2030 for classroom technology, reliable internet, cybersecurity, student and staff devices, family communications, transportation systems and other technology essential to school operations.
Student achievement and district priorities
Dr. Duran also discussed student achievement, acknowledging that improvement remains a priority. District data showed that English language arts proficiency remained around 33%, while math proficiency was 22.8% in 2025–26. He highlighted positive developments, including more than 30% of graduates earning the Seal of Biliteracy in 2026, preliminary figures, and 86% of 11th-grade students reporting confidence in their college and career readiness.
Projected property tax impact
According to the district’s presentation, the combined projected tax rate for bonds and levies would rise from $4.47 per $1,000 of assessed property value in 2026 to $4.89 in 2027. For a home assessed at $500,000, the district estimated an increase of approximately $210 annually, or $17.50 monthly. Eligible low-income seniors and people with disabilities may qualify for property tax exemptions.
Key takeaway
Dr. Duran’s presentation provided Rotary members with an overview of Highline Public Schools’ facility, technology and educational priorities, the projects each proposed measure would fund, and the potential property tax implications. The presentation was informational, giving attendees an opportunity to better understand the measures before the November election.
Additional information: highlineschools.org/bondandlevy
Rotary Club of Des Moines–Normandy Park provides informational programming and does not endorse or oppose ballot measures, levies or bonds.
