After intense public criticism, the Alaska State Board of Education voted unanimously on Wednesday to delay proposed school funding regulations. The new rules would have restricted how much financial support municipalities could offer school districts across Alaska.
Officials fast-tracked the regulation process, prompting concerns from educators, lawmakers, and parents about its legality and fairness. The Anchorage School District warned it would sue the state if the board approved the changes without proper public review.
Attorney Mathew Singer, representing the district, said there was no real emergency to justify bypassing standard procedures. The regulations, which came from the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, aimed to fix issues with a federal equity test.
That test ensures Alaska does not allow wide funding disparities between its school districts while receiving federal Impact Aid. Alaska failed that test for school budgets from two years ago, putting the state on the hook for up to $81 million.
Education officials said the proposed rules would clarify which municipal contributions meet federal standards. However, local officials and school administrators said the rules wouldn’t solve the problem and would restrict current funding methods instead.
Services like snow removal or building maintenance might count as contributions limiting cash support for essential programs. Anchorage could lose $15 million in student transportation and preschool support. Juneau reported over $2 million at risk.
After 90 minutes of public testimony Wednesday, the board paused the regulations and opened a 30-day public comment period. Commissioner Deena Bishop said the delay reflects public input and equity commitment.
