Alaska Teacher Calls for Increased Education Funding in Wake of Budget Crisis

Rebecca Siegel, a middle school teacher in Fairbanks, voiced her disappointment in the Alaska Legislature’s decision not to override Governor Mike Dunleavy’s veto of the Base Student Allocation increase. Siegel emphasized the difficult conditions facing students in Alaska’s schools due to ongoing budget constraints.

“Class sizes are so large that it can be hard to move around the classroom, let alone ensure that each student receives the one-on-one attention they need,” she stated, highlighting the challenges of providing meaningful feedback as class sizes are projected to increase further. This situation persists even with the recent closure of three schools aimed at cost-cutting measures.

Governor Dunleavy described proposed increases to school funding as “unaffordable,” prompting Siegel to suggest seeking additional revenue through state tax reforms. The Alaska Department of Revenue estimates that closing the S-Corp tax loophole for oil and gas companies earning over $5 million annually could generate more than $100 million per year through 2030. Siegel argues that companies making such significant profits should contribute to the state through taxes, thereby helping to fund essential public services, including education.

“It is irresponsible not to do this,” she insisted. Despite discussions in committee hearings where oil industry representatives argue against increased taxation, Siegel maintains, “Somehow, they expect Alaskans to ignore the massive profits they take home each year, as our children’s future is at stake.”

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