Academies are small learning communities that empower students through college and career exposure so they can make timely, informed decisions and discover their true passions while earning early college credit and nationally recognized industry certifications. Students at each comprehensive high school will have the option to choose from at least two pathways, an elective class they will sign up for during regular registration. 

Participating high schools will be matched with local industry partners who will provide training, internship and job-shadowing opportunities for students, as well as support for teachers who work in specific career-themed academies.

Enrolling in a pathway is optional for all students. 

In addition to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at West High School and Alaska Middle College School, the academies will offer honors, Advanced Placement, and dual enrollment opportunities. The goal is to increase the number of students taking advanced courses by increasing relevance and rigor in instructional practices.

AP Alignment

Academy scheduling is student-driven; elective classes are determined by student requests rather than teacher interest. Recommended electives will be offered to enhance the student’s pathway course sequence, while also having the opportunity to select any global electives offered in the Program of Studies.

Participating high schools will be matched with local industry partners who will provide training, internship and job-shadowing opportunities for students, as well as support for teachers who work in specific career-themed academies.

If your student is a current junior or senior, they can also elect to take a pathway course. 

They do not have to opt into a pathway. 

Classes in the arts, music, literature, social studies, physical education and world languages will still be offered by district high schools, even if no career pathway is focused on those areas. These classes are valuable and available to all students, regardless of the academy.

Each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) will support their learning and be implemented to ensure student success if they choose a pathway. 

This is a student-centered model that focuses on what is best for the student. Counselors and administrators will continue to work closely with students and their families to ensure students' needs are met.  

JROTC programs will continue to be offered as a global elective, available to all students.

The Anchorage School District and the community know the value and importance of learning a world language. ASD is committed to developing global citizens who can communicate with diverse individuals and communities, and learning a world language greatly improves this outcome. Students will be encouraged to continue with their language immersion experiences and to take a world language. Proficiency in a world language will still be highlighted with the Seal of Biliteracy program. 

At this time, students will still be able to enroll in King Tech courses.

If you have additional questions, please reach out to your student’s counselor, principal or their school’s academy coach. 

Students will still attend their neighborhood schools and will have an option to lottery into other school choice programs.