During Thursday’s committee meetings, the Anchorage school board deliberated potential changes to Alaska’s school policy on remote learning and rightsizing. While the Mat-Su Borough Schools announced the end of remote learning during severe weather, the Anchorage School District refrained from making an official decision.
ASD Superintendent Jarrett Bryant participated in discussions on various topics, including a new proposal to regulate student use of electronic devices. The proposed policy, BP 5138, outlines distinctions for device use by school level, bans usage in elementary and middle schools, and allows limited use in high schools.
Additionally, exceptions for accessibility needs and provisions for searching devices under suspicion were considered. Final discussions on the policy will resume in January. The board also revisited its rightsizing proposal to close schools to reallocate resources effectively.
Member Pat Higgins introduced amendments prioritizing equitable access for low-income families, particularly regarding transportation to charter schools to ensure better accessibility. Despite intense debate on Alaska’s school policy, no final actions were taken during the work sessions.
Higgins voiced frustrations over restrictions preventing direct communication between board members and district employees. He claimed these barriers impede his ability to address community concerns, such as those raised by Turnagain Elementary parents.
Superintendent Bryant emphasized that requests for information should follow established protocols to ensure efficiency. Concerns over icy conditions reignited discussions about remote learning policies. The Mat-Su Borough’s decision followed state guidance, excluding remote days from total instructional time.
ASD spokesperson Corey Allen-Young confirmed that the district is evaluating similar changes. School Board President Andy Holleman hinted at upcoming announcements but emphasized the need for consensus among board members before finalizing decisions. The Anchorage Board will meet again on December 17th to review Alaska’s school policy and other matters.
This news article was originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
