Deena Bishop, Alaska’s Education Commissioner, urged superintendents statewide to pressure lawmakers or risk a school funding veto threat. On Monday, Bishop’s letter asked school leaders to support Governor Dunleavy’s education policies before a crucial legislative vote.
Superintendents across Alaska voiced alarm over Bishop’s message, calling it unexpected and harmful for struggling school districts statewide. Roy Getchell, the Haines School District superintendent, said many districts face deep deficits, looming closures, and dangerous uncertainty.
He emphasized that children’s futures should never be bargaining tools in political negotiations over funding. The Alaska Legislature voted decisively Wednesday on House Bill 57, increasing per-student funding by $183 million yearly.
Lawmakers described it as a bipartisan compromise balancing Dunleavy’s veto concerns with legislative priorities. Bishop’s letter focused on governor’s demands, including open enrollment, improved reading performance and more homeschool support.
Superintendent Madeline Aguillard of the Kuspuk School District voiced disappointment over the veto threat, stressing that the governor’s urban-focused policies ignore rural needs. She described the district’s crumbling buildings, outdated curriculum, and uncompetitive teacher salaries as urgent issues requiring immediate attention, not political posturing.
Shannon Harvilla, the Bristol Bay Borough School District superintendent, echoed concerns about the letter’s tone and timing but urged lawmakers to prioritize student needs. He highlighted the importance of stability after years of frozen funding, rising costs, and recruitment struggles.
House Speaker Bryce Edgmon said he was surprised to see a commissioner enlisting local leaders to pressure lawmakers. The Legislature passed House Bill 57 with strong bipartisan support, but uncertainty remains over Dunleavy’s next move.
Governor Dunleavy has until May 17 to sign, veto, or let the bill pass without his signature. Lawmakers say they might secure the 40 votes needed to override a veto. However, overriding specific funding cuts tied to Bishop’s letter would require 45 votes and possibly a special session, a more difficult task.
