Anchorage School Board Reverses Proposed Cuts Amid Legislative Changes
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – In a significant development, the Anchorage School Board has decided to restore previously approved budget cuts during their meeting on Tuesday. This decision comes in response to HB 57, which is currently progressing through the Alaska legislature, featuring a $700 increase to the Base Student Allocation (BSA).
School Board Member Kelly Lessens highlighted that the passage of Memo 153 would result in avoiding layoffs of certificated staff and reversing displacements already initiated within the district. Furthermore, it would enable the administration to proceed with external hires in critical strategic areas.
While the increased funding from the BSA would mitigate some of the fiscal challenges faced by the Anchorage School District (ASD), the board reiterated that this is merely a temporary solution. Another deficit is anticipated next year. If the Governor approves an increase of $560 or more to the BSA, ASD will officially reverse its previous cuts.
The memorandum passed not only includes the preservation of middle and high school sports but also safeguards gifted and language programs, alongside numerous full-time positions. Despite the positive strides, the board still faces cuts amounting to roughly $23 million, as noted by Lessens.
“This has been a really difficult year and we’ve already lost some fantastic educators along the way,” stated Superintendent Jharrett Bryantt following the memo’s passage. “At least today’s bold leadership moment from the board means that we can hold on to as many educators as possible. We’ll need them. We’re in a national crisis for some of these critical positions.”
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