The Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) and Technology levies are narrowly passing, according to the King County election results on Tuesday night.

The Technology levy, proposition No. 1, is passing with 55% voting yes so far, or about 8,216 votes. On Tuesday night, the EP&O levy was ahead by just two votes. According to the Feb. 9 election results update, the EP&O levy is passing with 50.7% or 7,551 people voting yes.

“I’m grateful for the continued support of the Federal Way community,” said Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer. “While these early results are still close to call, I remain optimistic that our community’s long-standing support of this critical funding for essential staff and programs will continue.”

The EP&O levy is asking for $174 million over four years between 2023-2026. The technology levy asks for $28 million over six years between 2023-2028.

After of Wednesday, 14,943 ballots have been counted so far, which is about 18.5% of the registered voters in Federal Way.

“We appreciate the continued support of our community,” said Shannon McCann, president of the Federal Way Education Association. “We are optimistic and will keep watching the results. These levies are critical for our students’ well-being, education and opportunity.”

The EP&O replacement levy funds essential staff such as nurses, counselors, social workers, para-educators, college and career specialists, custodians, security, bus drivers and transportation services. The levy also funds special education, English Language Learner services, and music education programs, along with athletics and after-school programs.

Renewal of the tech levy allows continued equitable access to technology, digital tools and resources, and essential learning experiences. It will also provide student and teacher devices and support; instructional technology training and integration; and a reliable technology infrastructure to include critical equipment and systems maintenance and upgrades.

Superintendent Pfeiffer added the district will continue to monitor the King County Elections results daily updates.

“Thank you again to all who continue to support our schools and who took the time to cast their ballot as we seek to renew this critical funding for schools,” she said.