New proposal suggests Alaska school year beginning in September

A proposed bill in the Alaska legislature is aiming to establish the first Tuesday of September as the earliest start date for schools in the state, allowing students more time for subsistence activities such as berry picking and working in industries like construction and tourism. Senate Bill 178, introduced by Sen. Jesse Bjorkman, is intended to provide flexibility for students and families, as well as align school calendars more closely with the unique character and culture of Alaska.

Bjorkman, a teacher himself, emphasized the importance of allowing educators who rely on summer jobs to supplement their income to have more time in the summer before returning to school. The bill also takes into consideration regional differences in harvest times and activities, with a waiver process in place for districts that may need to start school earlier or later based on their specific needs.

Deb Riddle from the Department of Education and Early Development highlighted the existing waiver program that allows for flexibility in school start dates, pointing to the Lake and Peninsula School District as an example of a district that has adjusted its calendar for subsistence reasons. Lon Garrison of the Association of Alaska School Boards emphasized the importance of local control in considering the potential impacts of the bill on school districts around the state.

While the bill may require adjustments to teaching hours or measurement of teaching time, backers believe that a change in statute is necessary to encourage districts to overcome inertia and create calendars that better serve the needs of Alaska families. As the proposal moves through the legislative process, supporters are hopeful that it will provide positive benefits for students and communities across the state.

Source
Photo credit www.adn.com