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Superintendent previews levy renewals and Welcome Center; Director Trias announces resignation
Summary
Superintendent Aramaki warned of potential school‑meal impacts if a federal shutdown persists, previewed two levy renewals set for the Feb. 10 ballot, highlighted the new Welcome Center and rising AP participation, and Director Martha Trias announced she will step down from the board.
Superintendent Dr. Aramaki used the board meeting to brief directors on several operational items and community initiatives and to preview upcoming levy decisions.
Aramaki told the board the district does not expect immediate impacts from a federal shutdown on most federal grants, but it may affect school meal funding if a shutdown extends beyond the state’s cash‑on‑hand window. He explained the district receives roughly $500,000 to $600,000 per month from the federal government for school meals and said staff are monitoring the situation.
Aramaki also previewed two levy renewals that the board will review at its Oct. 16 meeting and may place on the Feb. 10 ballot: a levy for educational programs and operations and a levy for technology and capital projects. He emphasized these would be renewals of existing levies approved by voters in 2022 rather than new taxes. The district will provide details about what the levies fund and projected tax rates at future briefings.
The superintendent celebrated the grand opening of a district Welcome Center — a centralized location for enrollment, family support and services for families experiencing homelessness — and credited community partners and staff for the design. He highlighted Bellevue High School’s efforts to increase AP participation and passage rates for underrepresented student groups and noted district CTE and career pathways showcased at school visits.
Separately, Director Martha Trias used director discussion time to announce she will step down from her District 3 board seat for personal reasons. Trias thanked the community and staff, urged attention to chronic absenteeism and reflected on her service and pride in the district’s staff and programs. Board colleagues offered appreciation and best wishes.
The superintendent and staff said more information on levy details, tax impacts and related materials will be provided at upcoming meetings and that the Welcome Center is open to families.
