The legislature’s override of the Governor’s veto on August 2nd was nothing short of historic. It was a clear, bipartisan statement that education funding is essential to the health of Alaska’s public education system and to the future of our children. The action also countered claims that no policy was enacted—the override itself affirmed that policy considerations were central to the bill’s passage.
While we should celebrate this achievement, we must temper our enthusiasm with reality. Even with the fully funded statutory increase to the Base Student Allocation (BSA), our schools remain significantly underfunded. By current estimates, the BSA is still at least $1,100 short of fully accounting for inflation since 2011. We’ve made meaningful progress this past year, but we are far from finished. Future funding will depend on continued policy compromise and, more importantly, on a long-term fiscal plan that commits to expanded and sustained education support.
Vigilance for the Road Ahead
The bipartisan victory of 2025 is fragile. National polarization continues to spill into Alaska politics, threatening local governance and mischaracterizing the mission of school boards and the Association of Alaska School Boards. At times, school board members, administrators, superintendents, and even our representative associations are wrongly portrayed as self-serving, rather than student-centered. These narratives undermine the dignity of local service and the hard work of boards committed to student success.
As elected officials, you know firsthand that the needs of your districts are often complex and sometimes conflicting. In the coming year, vigilance will be critical—both in standing firm for local governance and in staying responsive to students, families, and communities. Alaska has long honored local determination, and AASB will continue to be a strong voice for your authority and your mission. We will also work to keep you informed about policies, regulations, and potential executive actions that may impact your governance.
A Call to Action
As this new school year begins, take a moment to thank your legislators—whether they voted for or against the override—for recognizing the importance of education funding. Work closely with your fellow board members to strengthen collaboration, stay present and engaged, and remember the importance of listening to understand and speaking to be understood.
Consider tools like the Dignity Index as a guide for leading with respect and integrity in often difficult conversations. And remember: AASB is here to support your work, advocate for your responsibilities, and uphold the principle of local control.
This year will bring new challenges, but together, with vigilance, advocacy, and unity, we can continue moving forward—keeping students’ achievement and opportunity at the center of all we do.
Best wishes for an excellent school year filled with love, respect, dignity, and hope.
Lon
Note: ChatGPT was used to aid in the editing of this article.
