Got Bond & Levy Questions? Ask Superintendent Duran at Rotary

With School Board testimony restrictions in place, Wednesday's Rotary meeting offers residents an opportunity to question Superintendent Duran before November's election.

Staff Writer

Oct 19, 2026 - 1 min read

With a $595.4 million capital bond and $48 million technology levy on November's ballot, voters have questions about Highline Public Schools' spending priorities and future plans.

At School Board meetings for the past several weeks, Board President Joe Van and Vice President Angelica Alvarez have announced restrictions on public testimony concerning ballot measures, citing legal guidance regarding campaign advocacy. They said speakers advocating for or against the bond, levy or other ballot measures would be interrupted and asked to change topics.

The Board also does not respond directly to speakers during public testimony.

Wednesday's Rotary gathering offers community members an opportunity to ask Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran questions directly, less than two weeks before the election.

Duran's presentation, “Building a Stronger Tomorrow — Together,” will address the district's educational vision and priorities for preparing students for the future.

According to the Rotary Club's event calendar, the presentation will also include information about the proposed bond and technology levy.

Bettina Carey, program chair for the Rotary Club of Des Moines & Normandy Park, confirmed to The Highline Journal that Duran is expected to speak for approximately 20 minutes, followed by about 10 minutes for audience questions.

Carey emphasized that guests are welcome and do not need to be Rotary members to attend.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Time: Noon–1 p.m.
Location: Des Moines Theater, 22325 Marine View Drive S., Des Moines
Admission: Open to the public
RSVP: Encouraged, but not required. Contact Bettina Carey at 206-349-4297.

Virtual Option

If you can’t make the meeting in person, join the meeting on Zoom.
Launch Meeting – Zoom

The Rotary Club of Des Moines & Normandy Park brings together community members from both cities for service, fellowship and presentations on local issues. The club welcomes visitors interested in learning more about its activities.

For additional information, visit DMNPRotary.org.

Source: Highline School Board Regular Meeting, October 7, 2026, page 9.

This article is shared as a free service to the community. No payment or sponsorship was received by The Highline Journal.

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