06/02/2026: School Board Work Session

The Anchorage School District held a School Board Work Session on June 2, 2026, primarily focused on discussing the implementation of a new regional nursing model for the upcoming school year. The administration presented details about the model, which divides the district into six regions with assigned "anchor" nurses at each school to better allocate nursing resources based on student medical acuity. The model aims to improve coverage for high-acuity students by allowing nurses from low-acuity schools to support higher-need schools when necessary. Board members raised concerns about student safety, nurse morale, and the potential impact of the model on nurse retention amid a statewide nursing shortage. The administration clarified that the model was developed to address coverage challenges and would be maintained even if additional funding were available. They also noted that the model includes protocols for substitute coverage and use of unlicensed assistant personnel (UAP) for low-acuity schools. The board discussed the modest cost impact of the model, including a range six addenda pay increase totaling just under $4,000 for six regional leads. A nurse task force has been established to develop standard operating procedures and oversee implementation. No formal vote was recorded during the session, but the discussion highlighted ongoing concerns about staffing and the need for clear communication with stakeholders, including the Totem union representing school assistants.