Eugene voters overwhelmingly approved the renewal of a levy to support the 4J school district.

Measure 20-301 passed 71 to 28%.

Anne Marie Levis is the 4J board vice-chair and also campaigned for the levy renewal. She said part of their messaging was explaining to voters the difference between a bond – which helps with construction and facilities – and a levy – which goes toward operating expenses.

Levis says the levy covers about 10% of the budget, which translates to 26 school days.

“Having to cut 10% out of our budget would have really tragic. It really has helped us maintain our class sizes,” says Levis. “We’ve been able to add some things back recently with counselors, mental health, some PE.”

Along with the Student Success Act recently signed by the governor, Levis says the investments in education might allow them to dream big again, after years of cuts.

In school board elections, longtime Eugene 4J board member Jim Torrey narrowly lost to challenger Martina Shabram. In the Springfield district, challenger Todd Mann beat incumbent Laurie Adams 63 to 35 percent. Incumbent Naomi Raven held off challenger Jessica Adams, and Karen Hunter has successfully challenged incumbent Michelle Webber.

Corvallis voters heartily approved a renewal of their “livability levy 72 to 27 percent Tuesday. It funds city operations including parks.