1. United States
2. Alaska
3. Letter

I am writing to express my profound concern and disappointment following the recent failure to override the veto concerning the $1,000 increase to the Base Student Allocation (BSA). Understanding that our community’s prosperity is fundamentally linked to the quality of our educational system, this decision strikes a blow to the future of Alaska’s children and the overall health of our state. As a resident deeply invested in the well-being of our community, I wish to convey that I am even willing to forego my Permanent Fund Dividend if it would mean securing adequate funding for our schools. I do not currently have children in the Anchorage School District, yet I believe in the critical importance of investing in education to foster a knowledgeable community and prevent the continuing outmigration prompted by diminishing school resources and the inability to attract dedicated educators and staff. Yesterday’s veto override session’s outcome was not only disappointing but also a clear signal that more needs to be done to support our educational institutions. It is encouraging to see the Senate Finance Committee consider House Bill 57, which proposes a $700 increase to the BSA and a 10% boost to the student transportation system. While this is a positive step, it remains imperative that we commit to the full $1,000 initially proposed to genuinely meet the needs of our students and teachers. Investing in our schools is an investment in the future of Alaska. Well-funded, quality education systems attract families to stay and contribute to the community, enhance property values, and build the educated workforce necessary to support local businesses and the broader economy. As your constituent, I urge you to reconsider the implications of underfunding our educational system and to support enhanced funding for the BSA. Our commitment to education reflects our values and our vision for the state’s future. Please let us not falter in making the necessary decisions to provide our children with the quality education they deserve.