As a local Seattle King County REALTOR® and a resident of this community since 1974, I fully support the Federal Way Public Schools bond that will be presented to voters on the Nov. 7 ballot. The Seattle King County REALTORS® have also endorsed this bond, along with many other local officials, community leaders and organizations.

In the past year, I was part of the 100-member Federal School Facilities Planning Committee. For eight months we analyzed the needs of our Federal Way schools and how to fairly distribute the needed funds that this school bond will generate. We learned how important this bond is to the welfare of our schools and our scholars.

The need is great, and the time is now. It is urgent that we begin addressing school facility needs immediately. Voting yes for this bond addresses aging, deteriorating school facilities, overcrowding and the need for enhanced safety district wide.

It is important for everyone to know that this $450 million bond will not increase taxes. Tax collections will remain the same as they currently are now. Federal Way Public Schools has demonstrated a track record of fiscal responsibility and will continue to do so with these needed funds. Our scholars need our support.

Across the district, 19 schools plus Memorial Stadium are 40 years or older. Our elementary schools are overcrowded by 1,000-plus students, and enrollment is on the rise by at least 300 students a year. We need more classrooms to support our already overcrowded schools. We need modernized, technology-enriched classrooms that will support current and future scholars.

Additionally, with your yes vote, all schools will benefit from the School Construction Assistance Program — a state funding allocation program that would address major maintenance needs and security enhancements at all sites, as well as the relocation of Mark Twain Elementary School.

As a REALTOR®, I know that great schools also enhance the value of our homes, neighborhoods, jobs and communities.

Please join with me, parents, residents of Federal Way, local businesses and community leaders in supporting a yes vote for Federal Way Public Schools scholars. We believe in our community, our investment and their future.

Susie Horan, Federal Way