I am writing to encourage you to send in your “yes” ballot today in support of the Lake Washington School District bond. We need every vote to meet the high 60 percent threshold needed for passage.

Our schools are currently overcrowded. There are far more kindergartners entering Lake Washington Schools than are graduating, and by 2020 there will be 30,000 kids in the school district.

You can help manage overcrowding and keep the problem from getting worse by sending in your ballot today. Best news—this bond is part of a long a long term plan developed with input from 63 people in the community to address urgent classroom needs while holding our tax rate flat over time.

I’m voting yes, even though my kids will not directly benefit from this bond, because I believe we need to make space to educate our population. In addition, strong schools make for strong property values and a strong community.

Please send in your yes vote today. We need your vote by April 26. For a list of ballot drop off locations, visit: http://kingcounty.gov/depts/elections/how-to-vote/ballots/returning-my-ballot/ballot-dropoff-locations.aspx

Kirstin Larson, Kirkland