One evening this week, my remarkable wife and I were at a local real estate company calling voters to encourage them to vote for the Highline School levy. After so many years of not being able to pass a bond or levy, it is so exciting to see that we are finally investing in education and our children.

As I called voters, they were so positive about our schools and the decisions we have made in recent years to invest in them. One woman was so excited about the new school planned at Shorewood. And a voter, who also happened to be a teacher, was so proud of the new school at White Center Heights.

On March 13, we have an opportunity to continue a levy that we passed three years ago. Levies are for learning. This is not a new tax, but a continuation of an existing levy. It pays for teachers and for programs for direct involvement with our children.

Regardless of the complex annexation issue that is approaching, by state regulation, these schools, and the children who attend them, will stay in the Highline School District. If we agree to a Seattle annexation, we will stay in the Highline School District, and our past investments and current levy funding will stay here too.

And remember, good schools and a successful school district, not only prepare the next generation, but it also makes our homes more valuable. Regardless of how you feel about Seattle or Burien annexation, vote yes on March 13. Vote for our kids and the teachers who work so hard to make our public education system work for everyone.

Mark Ufkes

White Center