Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise 2025 Levy Renewal Process
The Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) is committed to fostering a bright future for all students in our community. The Families, Education, Preschool and Promise (FEPP) levy funds DEEL’s major investments in Seattle youth and families from cradle to career and beyond. These investments are funded by the Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise (FEPP) Levy, which is set to expire at the end of 2025.
Originally approved by voters in 2018, the FEPP Levy represents Seattle’s commitment to a continuum of equity-driven investments—from childcare and early learning to college and career. The levy funds free, high-quality services that reduce barriers, connect youth to caring adults, and create community through culturally responsive programs.
About the Proposed 2025 FEPP Levy
The proposed 2025 FEPP Levy renewal would bring a property tax ballot measure to voters in November 2025 investing in three key areas:
Ready To Start: High-quality preschool for three- and four-year olds, with free tuition for low- and middle- income families, child care co-pay support, supports for families with children prenatal through age three, and direct payments to childcare workers.
Ready To Learn: Free expanded learning supports for Seattle youth including school-day, afterschool, and summer academic, enrichment, and mentorship programs; funding for five new School Based Health Centers bringing the total citywide to 34; and expanded school safety and student mental health services.
Ready To Launch: Tuition-free college at Seattle Colleges accessible for all Seattle public high school graduates through the Seattle Promise program, supported transfer pathway to University of Washington-Seattle, and scholarships to grow a diverse workforce in high-demand careers such as education, trades, and the public sector.
Levy Renewal Process
On April 23, 2025, Mayor Bruce Harrell announced the Every Child Ready Initiative, with new and renewed programs intended to ensure that every child in Seattle is: Ready to Start, Ready to Learn, and Ready to Launch. Renewal of the FEPP Levy is the foundation of the Every Child Ready Initiative.
Mayor Bruce Harrell sent his proposal to Seattle City Council, who then considered the proposal in the Select Committee on the FEPP Levy. From April 10th-June 18th, Seattle City Council met seven times, which included a public hearing. On June 18, 2025 Seattle City Council voted to place the FEPP Levy on the November 4, 2025, ballot.
Learn More
Stay informed and follow the process at seattle.gov/education
For questions or feedback, contact DEEL at education@seattle.gov