Realtors know high quality schools are important in every neighborhood. Good schools are a priority – and not just for parents. Savvy buyers and sellers know that quality schools are a factor in home values.

Seattle King County REALTORS® recently considered an endorsement request from the Auburn Citizens for Schools Campaign. Among eight districts within the county with measures on the Feb. 9 ballot, they were the only group to partner with a realtor in seeking our support. Clearly, they are well organized and recognize the value of involving key stakeholders in this campaign for critical funding.

Realtors understand the importance of supplementing state funding for basic classroom needs, but as homeowners and taxpayers, we are also concerned about the “return on investment.” Track records on academics and fiscal matters are also considered.

Residents in the Auburn School District should be proud of the district’s accomplishments in adapting to demographic shifts, particularly in serving the growing segment of English Language Learners and those facing economic challenges.

We are also impressed with the District’s strong career and technical education programs and its achievements in having an unprecedented number of historically underrepresented students succeeding in Advanced Placement courses.

Auburn voters should also appreciate the exemplary record of fiscal management and accountability by district officials.

My colleagues at Seattle King County Realtors and I are pleased to add our endorsement to Auburn’s Educational Program and Operations Replacement Levy. We urge readers to join us in voting yes on Feb. 9.

– Roni Strupat, past president, Seattle King County Realtors