Protect Alaska schools: Restore education funding, prioritize students

The governor's actions regarding education funding pose a severe threat to Alaska's public schools. Vetoing $51 million from the education budget and encouraging lawmakers to skip sessions undermines our children's right to quality education. Superintendents across the state have expressed grave concerns, with some districts facing deficits, staff reductions, school closures, and an inability to maintain basic operations like heating and fire safety. Additionally, the proposed rule change limiting local funding contributions could result in tens of millions fewer dollars for students statewide. Coupled with potential federal cuts to programs like Migrant Education, our schools are facing a crisis that could devastate educational opportunities for years to come. Protecting public education must be a top priority. Reversing the detrimental vetoes, abandoning efforts to restrict local funding, and ensuring adequate state and federal resources are imperative for safeguarding our children's futures. Alaskans deserve leaders who prioritize investing in education over political gambits. Our schools and students cannot be sacrificed due to short-sighted policies. Substantive action is needed to secure sustainable, equitable funding that allows every child to thrive academically.