The Library's Education and Neighborhoods Committee recommended confirmation of Duane Chappell as director of the Department of Education and Early Learning on Dec. 12, sending the reappointment to the full Seattle City Council for final action on Dec. 16.

Chappell, who has led the department since 2016, told the committee the department has expanded programs under his leadership, including the Seattle Preschool Program and Seattle Promise, and has delivered emergency childcare and technology distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Every child in Seattle will thrive, will prosper, and will pursue the future they choose from preschool to K–12 to postsecondary and career pathways," Chappell said during his remarks.

The presentation, made after Andrew Myerberg of the mayor's office introduced Chappell, noted several tangible metrics cited by Chappell and presenters: the department formerly stewarded a $619,000,000 FEPP (Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise) levy approved by voters in November with about 80% support; the Seattle Preschool Program serves more than 2,500 children annually; and Seattle Promise enrolls roughly 1,400 students each year. Chappell also described ongoing community engagement plans tied to levy implementation, including in-person and virtual events with language access and interpretation services.

Council members praised Chappell's tenure and the department's focus on equity and family supports. Committee chair Maritza Rivera said she and others have worked with Chappell through two levies and called his leadership a source of continuity. Council member Joy Hollingsworth and Council member Alexis Rink each voiced support, and Council member Eddie Lynn thanked Chappell for his years of service and asked about public engagement; Chappell described recent outreach that included surveys, focus groups and over 2,000 site visits.

The committee moved and seconded Chappell's reappointment and then voted 4–0 in favor to recommend confirmation. The committee's recommendation will be transmitted to the Dec. 16 City Council meeting for final confirmation.