Lael M. Oldmixon, M.Ed., Executive Director, Education Trust of Alaska
When students and families consider their options after high school, college, career training, certificates, apprenticeships, or military service, they consistently turn to the people they know best, notably their school community. Administrators, teachers, counselors, and support staff remain the most trusted guides in helping families understand opportunities and make confident choices.
Recent research from the Education Trust of Alaska reinforces this crucial role. Surveys conducted with current University of Alaska students, parents, and Alaska 8th‑grade families show that K–12 educators are among the most influential voices shaping students’ perceptions, plans, and financial decisions about life after graduation. Families look to schools not just for information, but for interpretation of complex processes, encouragement, and advice tailored to their child’s goals. Below are five ways schools influence post-high-school planning and financial decision-making:
- Financial Aid Decisions Are Deeply Influenced by School Guidance Families rely heavily on schools to understand financial aid options such as the FAFSA, scholarships, grants, and education savings tools. Clear explanations, reminders, and access to knowledgeable staff significantly reduce confusion and missed opportunities. Proactive guidance helps families feel confident pursuing aid rather than assuming post‑secondary education is financially out of reach.
- Course Selection Matters, and Schools Shape Those Choices Students pursuing the Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS) depend on school staff to explain eligibility requirements, which mandate specific coursework be completed during high school. Early and frequent conversations about APS pathways help ensure students stay on track. School awareness and guidance can directly affect whether students qualify for this important source of financial support.
- Attitudes Toward Staying in Alaska Begin Early Schools strongly influence how students and families perceive the value of post‑secondary education in Alaska. Research suggests many families underestimate the quality and opportunity available in‑state. Positive messaging, exposure to University of Alaska programs, and sharing local success stories all increase the likelihood that students consider staying in Alaska, choices that lead to stronger community ties and long‑term workforce retention.
- Saving Versus Borrowing Every family wants to minimize education-related debt. Schools can help by reinforcing the importance of saving early and consistently. Alaska 529 provides a tax‑advantaged way for families, friends, and caregivers to contribute over time and and generous incentive offerings to help grow accounts. Even modest savings can significantly reduce future borrowing and long‑term financial strain.
- Small Conversations Have Long‑Term Impact Short, timely conversations – about financial aid deadlines, course planning, or education savings – can alter a student’s trajectory. When educators provide accurate information and encouragement early, students are more likely to see post‑secondary education as attainable and aligned with their goals.
Post-high-school decisions can feel overwhelming for families, but students are not navigating them alone. Schools play an important role alongside families in helping students understand their options, consider financial realities, and move forward with confidence, with Alaska 529 serving as a partner by providing tools and resources that support early planning and informed financial decisions. Through informed guidance, positive framing, and early support, educators help students choose paths that serve individual goals while also strengthening Alaska’s communities and workforce, creating meaningful and lasting impact built on shared commitment and trust.
Lael M. Oldmixon, M.Ed., is the Executive Director of the Education Trust of Alaska. She is a parent of an 8th and 10th grader, and a long-time advocate of post-high school education and training. She has worked for the University of Alaska for nearly 20 years. Her goal is to help Alaska families understand the various strategies for making education and training after high school affordable and attainable.