Alaska Lawmakers Propose $158M School Funding Boost

Alaska Lawmakers Propose Significant School Funding Boost

Alaska lawmakers introduce House Bill 374, aiming to inject $158.6 million into schools by increasing the base student allocation by $630 per student. This move comes as districts grapple with rising costs and deficits, with Anchorage facing a $90 million shortfall and plans to close schools and cut teaching jobs. Representative Rebecca Himschoot, co-chair of the House Education Committee, emphasizes the need to prevent schools from falling behind, especially with increasing class sizes and past cuts. Last year, lawmakers increased funding by $700 per student, and this time, the governor is focusing on the state budget and oil projects. Despite calls for districts to tighten their belts, teachers and officials argue that funding lags behind inflation on fuel, insurance, and crumbling buildings. Lawmakers hope to reach a deal to address every districts urgent need for this funding boost.

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