Cardinals Rising raises funds and urges Annandale schools to prepare levy outreach

Hannah Fisher, speaking on behalf of the volunteer group Cardinals Rising, told the Annandale Public Schools board the group has raised $260,465 to help sustain district programs after a failed operating levy.

"Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we have fulfilled all 57 matches...raising just over $100,000," Fisher said, later reporting the group ‘‘has now raised $260,465’’ and that the robotics program was fully funded with a $30,000 gift for the 2025–26 school year. She asked the board to support development of a "thoughtful, phased communication plan" to increase the chances a future levy would succeed.

Board members thanked Cardinals Rising for the funds and for mobilizing locally, with one member noting the community’s response shows strong local support even after an operating levy did not pass. The board and speakers said the district is discussing possible next steps, including outreach and messaging to explain needs ahead of any future levy vote.

The group’s fundraising addressed short-term budget gaps and saved specific programs such as robotics; board members emphasized that community donations are a temporary measure and that sustainable revenue would still depend on formal action should the district choose to pursue another levy. "From the beginning, we understood this wasn't a long term solution," Fisher said, urging early engagement, transparency and clear communication so residents can understand consequences if a levy fails.

The board did not take formal action on levy timing at the meeting but said it would continue planning and gather information before deciding whether to place a question on a future ballot. The board also noted it will coordinate with community partners and use the grassroots momentum to inform outreach plans.