ASD Families, 

Since this summer, we have worked hard to protect our progress despite ongoing funding uncertainty. The Legislature overrode the Governor’s veto, federal funds were frozen and then released with help from our congressional delegation, and the question of “local contributions” remains unresolved and demands our community’s attention. 

Next week, that uncertainty comes to a head as the State Board of Education considers a change that could put more than $15 million of Anchorage’s locally provided school funding at risk this year alone. These are not state dollars. They are investments from the Anchorage community to support our students. The proposed rule would tighten state control over how municipalities choose to invest their dollars in their local schools.

While a regulation change may sound technical, the impact would be felt in every classroom. Fewer resources for students, reduced bus routes, and the loss of long-standing supports like School Resource Officers, Pre-K programs, or school-based health centers could all be on the line. That’s because the regulation is worded so broadly that it leaves these decisions up to the interpretation of the Education Commissioner, further eroding local control of our schools. The result is uncertainty for families and educators, and fewer resources at a time when stability is most needed.

At the same time, our District faces a $75+ million shortfall next year. Even with the Legislature’s historic funding increase, the state’s investment per student has lost more than $1,100 in value over the last decade. While we will continue to work with state leaders on long-term funding solutions, the regulation now under consideration could take away another $15 million this year. Preventing this additional loss is essential to protecting the stability of our schools.

This moment is about more than technical policy. It is about whether Anchorage will be allowed to protect the progress we have fought so hard to achieve and whether we can continue to build the schools our students deserve. Continued partnership at every level of government is essential if we are to safeguard stability for students and ensure progress is not undone.

How you can help protect our progress:

• Learn more details here
   
• Submit written comments to the State Board of Education at eed.stateboard@alaska.gov
   
• Testify by phone or Zoom at the Oct. 8 meeting
   
• Share this information with other parents and community members
   

Our students deserve stability, opportunity, and a future shaped by strong public schools. 

Please make your voice heard to protect our progress.

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Jharrett Bryantt
Superintendent, Anchorage School District