Education Levy Renewal 2021

There is an Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Renewal Levy in a special election coming up on February 9th, 2021 ballots. For most schools this levy is a renewal which expires in 2021. Schools currently use their EP&O Levy funds for many different learning programs and activities outside of state-funded basic education, including but not limited to programs in their community like:

Career and Technical Education
STEM Classes
Smaller Class Sizes
Transportation
Elementary Specialists
College in the High School
Advanced Placement (AP) Classes
Performing Arts
Athletics
Student Clubs
Electives
Work Based Learning Technology

Deer Park and Riverside School districts are looking to keep tax rates flat and squeeze out every bit of value from local tax dollars to provide the greatest impact for kids. Schools are also looking to maximize funds by using how school levies also activate equalization dollars from the state called Local Effort Assistance (LEA). When a levy is passed, the state provides matching dollars to enhance student access to educational programs and activities.

Please note that this will not change or increase current tax rates. If this levy is approved for renewal, there will be no change in rates.

For more information on February 9th, 2021 Special Election go to: DPGazette.com/voteguide2921

For more information about how to register to vote go to: DPGazette.com/reg2vote

Remember to get out and vote on February 9th

Photo by Glen Carrie

Deer Park School District, Educational Programs and Operations, EP&O, Renewal Levy, Riverside School District

Featured Sponsor

Thank You For Your Support!

New Midway Market Opens Along Highway 395

July 31, 2026

Shoppers traveling along the Highway 395 corridor now have a new grocery and fueling option in Colbert following the soft launch of Midway Market last weekend. The 18,000-square-foot facility houses ten specialty departments, including an artisan bakery, full-service meat counter, and an on-site coffee roastery. Management is preparing for an official grand opening event on August 5 to showcase the full operation to the community.

In Memory of Don/Donnie Gilmore

July 18, 2026

Donald “Donnie” Eugene Gilmore of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 73. He was born in Spokane, Washington, on August 22, 1952. In 1973, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty for two years. In 1983, he graduated with a degree in education from Eastern Washington University. Don was a beloved teacher at Springdale Elementary for 25 years. He even got to teach his two sons when they were in the fifth grade (much to their chagrin!). He retired in 2015. Don was married to Denise
Wurz (Lesmeister) from 1983 to 1995.

US 395 Lanes Reopened After Collision Near Monroe Road

June 16, 2026

A traffic collision at the intersection of North US Highway 395 and West Monroe Road temporarily blocked northbound traffic. Emergency crews, including multiple fire units and ambulances, responded to the scene to treat individuals and manage traffic flow. All lanes have since been cleared and reopened to regular traffic.

Roberta Anne Cade

June 12, 2026

Roberta A. Cade, 81, of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on April 19, 2026. Roberta was the oldest of eight siblings, a role she carried with strength, care, and a deep sense of responsibility throughout her life. She will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and for giving so freely to her friends and family.

Deer Park Kicks Off Summer With Packed Weekend

June 12, 2026

Deer Park area residents can look forward to a busy weekend filled with community events, fundraisers, and live entertainment starting this Friday. Activities ranging from a downtown block party to a charity golf tournament offer something for every member of the family. The multi-day lineup includes local businesses, musicians, and charitable organizations working together to welcome the summer season.

Luitgard Margrete Griffin

June 8, 2026

One of a kind is what most people stated about Luitgard (Margaret), and that is truly what she was! She was born in Bamberg, Germany, to Johann and Betty Wagner, as the second child. She had an older brother, Hans, and a younger sister, Elfriede.

Luitgard was trained as a seamstress in school and worked making men’s suits, among other things. She met the love of her life, Albert Leroy Griffin, in 1951, and they were married on December 6th, 1952.

Featured Sponsor

[the_ad_placement id="sidebar"]

Thank You For Your Support!

Share this!

Featured Sponsor

Thank You For Your Support!

City & School Levy Under Investigation

A state investigation is officially underway into the City of Deer Park for the alleged illegal use of taxpayer resources to promote a $14.6 million school levy. At the center of the probe is a potential conflict of interest, as the School District’s plans to purchase city-owned land in the near future hinge on the levy’s passage.

October 20, 2025

Know Your Candidates 5Q For City Council 2025

The Deer Park Gazette posed five questions to city council & mayoral candidates in the upcoming election, including those running unopposed. These questions delve into candidates’ priorities, views, perspectives, approaches, and how personal beliefs have shaped their direction.

September 24, 2025

Deer Park