Opinion: Thanks to Alaska lawmakers for supporting public education

Dear members of the Alaska Legislature,

On behalf of the Anchorage School District, we offer our heartfelt thanks for your leadership in overriding the governor’s veto of House Bill 57.

We deeply appreciate and commend the bipartisan action — a powerful, united stand that reflects not only a shared commitment to sound education policy, but also to protecting Alaska’s students, supporting their future, and upholding the strength of our public schools. Your willingness to rise above partisanship in service of our students is leadership at its best.

Securing the 46 votes needed to override the veto was no small feat. Each of you came together to make a resounding commitment to public education. We are grateful for this historic vote — a result of more than a year of conversation, advocacy, and careful negotiation. The $700 increase to the Base Student Allocation represents the largest permanent increase in Alaska’s history, accompanied by high-impact policy reforms that were thoughtfully shaped with input from educators and communities across the state. This legislation is much more than a funding bill — it’s a promise to Alaska’s students, and we are profoundly thankful to the legislators who worked across party lines to make it a reality.

[News coverage: Alaska lawmakers override Dunleavy’s veto of education bill]

We are also deeply grateful to the students, families, educators and community members who raised their voices in support of the override. Their advocacy was essential in moving this legislation forward and ensuring lawmakers heard the collective call for change.

Because of your leadership, ASD has started the process of restoring critical services and hiring teachers for the next school year. Though the threat of a veto to the education appropriation still looms, ASD is committed to moving forward, albeit cautiously, in service of our students and families. We understand that the decisions ahead will be difficult. As you work to develop and implement the sustainable, long-term fiscal plan our state urgently needs — one that ensures funding for the essential services Alaskans rely on — your commitment to bold action gives us hope.

We are proud to stand with you in support of strong, stable, and fully funded public education across Alaska.

Jharrett Bryantt is superintendent of the Anchorage School District.

Carl Jacobs is president of the Anchorage School Board.

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