Eleven years ago, my wife and I relocated to the Puget Sound area and chose to live on Mercer Island primarily because of the quality and reputation of its schools. We are supporting the current bond measure because we wholeheartedly believe that one of the most important factors that supports Mercer Island’s appeal as a community is the continuing quality of its schools; a factor that is in jeopardy as important school infrastructure erodes and more families choose to live here.

As proud parents of a soon-to graduate son who heads off to college in the fall as well as a first grader at Lakeridge, we are strong supporters of the school bond measure because we firmly believe our community must continue to invest in the value and standing of our schools relative to other school districts in Washington state and beyond. We encourage all other proud parents to show their support by voting yes on the school bond measure initiative.

From the moment our oldest son entered Lakeridge in second grade to his forthcoming graduation from Mercer Island High School, we feel blessed that he has enjoyed the educational and personal growth opportunities offered by the schools he has attended. We understand first-hand the value of a Mercer Island education. Our son understands the value as well. On his own initiative, he volunteered the past two weekends to knock on doors of potential voters to encourage their support of the bond measure. He feels very strongly about giving back to the community by encouraging others to support the schools that have provided him the education, interest and confidence he needs as he starts his college career.

As parents, we can’t think of a better reason to vote yes.

Brian and Rosa Thomas