In Alaska, the ongoing trend of school closures has become a pressing issue, with a dozen schools shutting down in May alone, marking the highest number in two decades. This phenomenon is not isolated to urban areas but is part of a broader national trend of declining public school enrollment. The state's education department data reveals a stark reality: 60 schools have closed since 1999, with 12 more closures this year, adding to the 28 closures in the last three years. The closure of schools is primarily attributed to insufficient and unpredictable state funding, demographic changes, and the proliferation of school choice. The state's largest districts have been at the forefront of these closures, with the Anchorage School District losing over 7,500 students since 2015 and closing six schools in the last four years. The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District has shuttered seven schools in the last four years, more than any other district in the state. The closures are not just a financial decision but also a response to the changing needs of families, who increasingly seek additional choices beyond neighborhood public schools. The state education commissioner, Deena Bishop, acknowledges this shift, predicting continued closures and the growth of choice programs. However, the closures have not been without controversy. Families have pushed back against large class sizes and proposed cuts to sports, teachers, and school nurses, leading to lawsuits and distrust in the district. The closures have also had a significant impact on students, with some having to travel long distances to attend school. The situation in Ketchikan Gateway Borough highlights the financial strain on districts, with the school board voting to close two elementary schools and increase class sizes after cutting about one-quarter of their staff. Research suggests that closures may not save districts as much as expected, and poorly handled closures can exacerbate racial inequities and hinder student achievement. The closures have also been linked to outmigration, with communities experiencing rapid population decline and less school choice options. The future of Alaska's schools remains uncertain, with state legislators and education officials grappling with the complex interplay of funding, enrollment, and family choices. As the state navigates this challenging landscape, the focus on strengthening neighborhood schools and exploring new school finance models becomes increasingly crucial.
