A Resounding "YES"

Mercer Island Voters Deliver Landslide Victory for School Levy

The first batch of results is in, and the message from Mercer Island voters is loud and clear: Public education remains the Island’s North Star. As of the initial drop at 8:03 PM tonight, February 10th, the Mercer Island School District (MISD) operational levy is cruising toward an emphatic victory. This Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) levy is the engine of the district, funding the "essentials" that state funding fails to cover: smaller class sizes, elective variety, and the nurses and counselors who support student well-being.

While the levy only requires a simple majority (50% + 1) to pass, the initial tally suggests the community didn't just want a "pass"—they wanted a statement.

• Votes in Favor: 3,674 (73.1%)

• Ballots Counted: 5,029

• Voter Turnout: 26.6% of registered voters (initial count)

• Status: Passage Projected

The 2022 EP&O levy had a first night pass rate of 72.6% and after all votes were tallied, passed with 73.7% in favor. Of the total votes cast in 2022 (7,585), 28.3% (2,148) were counted after the first night.

Voices From the Rock

The overwhelming support triggered a wave of gratitude from across the Island, from district leadership to the parents in the trenches.

The District Perspective

"I’m just so excited for our students, educators and families," said Superintendent Fred Rundle. "Amidst all of the challenges and uncertainties facing our communities, Mercer Island affirmed its unwavering value of and commitment to education. We will work as hard as ever to continue innovating and improving... we do not take your endorsement for granted."

"The passage of the EP&O levy provides important stability for our schools," added Tammy Shoop, Executive Director of the Mercer Island Schools Foundation. "It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when Mercer Island comes together."

Parent & Volunteers Made It Happen

For many, this vote was about more than just numbers; it was about the daily experience of students.

"As a parent with three kids in MISD spanning 1st through 11th grades, I am so grateful," said Kim Florence, Citizens For Mercer Island Public Schools (CMIPS) volunteer. "After the recent defeat of both bonds, I’ve learned to take nothing for granted. I’m grateful for the tireless work of many CMIPS members to get this critical funding approved."

Stephen Yu, parent and advocate, echoed the sentiment: "Tonight Mercer Islanders voted overwhelmingly to support our kids by passing the operational levy that pays for reduced class sizes, more elective choices, and vital counseling and nursing services. Thank you for choosing to support public education."

Civic and Community Reflections

"Congratulations to our community for demonstrating a strong commitment to education and the future of our schools," noted City Councilmember Julie Hsieh. "Your support makes a lasting difference for our students and families."

Finally, our resident observer Lady Mercerdale offered a characteristic bit of insight on the night's unity: "In a season when disagreement so often commands attention, it is notable when a community speaks with clarity. This vote suggests that certain foundations remain firmly agreed upon."

Results Update February 13th, 2026

As of 3 pm on February 12th, 38.5% of registered voters' ballots have been counted (7,284), the levy is passing with 74.6% voting YES.