Smith commented,

"As a former student of Bow Lake Elementary and Tyee High School, both in the Highline School District, this issue hits particularly close to home.

I strongly support the efforts of the Highline School District to ensure that children growing up in the shadow of the airport have a good learning atmosphere. This comprehensive study will be the first examination of how air traffic noise affects the classroom environment and how to best insulate our schools so that students and teachers can concentrate on learning and teaching.

Our children's health and education must be a top priority. I'm very pleased that the State of Washington and the Highline School District have made this important investment in our children's future."