A Matter of Opportunity

Lon Garrison, AASB Executive Director

I recently spoke at the summer Alaska Municipal League meeting in Kodiak on the topic of “re-envisioning education funding.”  Instead of a presentation, I sat down with AML Executive Director Nils Andreassen, and we briefly discussed this topic with about 70 municipal members from across the state in attendance.

Nils pointed out that for many years, the prime focus of our advocacy efforts has been increasing the base student allocation (BSA), which is true. His query to me was, “There is more than just the BSA, right? Can’t we focus on other needs that will impact students and communities?” My answer was YES, but the BSA is foundational.

It is true; we can discuss many other aspects of public education. Perhaps the most important ones for many municipalities and local governments are those related to student success or achievement. Can the local school district provide a quality public education for every student? Are those students succeeding? How is that success defined? What are the metrics? Is the local school system attractive to potential new families? More importantly, do parents, staff, and community members point to the schools as a reason for staying in the community? My mind began to think of all the different conversations we could have.

After considering everything, I realized a universal truth: most school districts lack the resources to offer many educational opportunities that contribute to student success, staff retention, and local community growth. With no significant increase in the BSA for 13 years and inflation eroding over 30% of its purchasing power since 2011, it is clear that there needs to be a higher investment in public education through the BSA.

The lack of investment by the state of Alaska in a meaningful and regular manner, has left no meat on the bones of public education to provide the muscles to power our movement forward and ensure every student has an opportunity for an excellent education every day. The BSA is the fundamental building block of Alaska’s educational DNA. It provides the means and prospect for a successful result: student success.

How can we change the conversation to better connect with all of our stakeholders? After some thought, I suggested that school systems and local governments could focus on “opportunity,” which is influenced by various factors including funding, collaboration, partnering, planning, and good governance. Perhaps by emphasizing “opportunity,” we can make a more compelling case for increased and consistent investment in our schools and students.

This is where each of you, as school board members, can play a pivotal role. Take a critical look at what your district offers as an opportunity for student success today. What additional opportunities would be available to your students and families if you had the resources (i.e., lower pupil-teacher ratios in the primary grades, more electives and advanced placement courses, more CTE and post-secondary transitions support, etc.)? When our schools provide opportunities for students to succeed, both in and out of the classroom, this can lead to success for the community and families. 

With the beginning of a new school year and the optimism that comes with it, it seems fitting for us to envision our “opportunities.” Will you seize the opportunity to share this message with your constituents and legislators?