NEA-Alaska

08/22/2026

The Fairbanks North Star Borough went back to school this week, but before students returned to classrooms, FEA members met to discuss the ongoing bargaining concerns with their team.

Both FEA and ESSA are beginning this school year with an expired contract. Despite scores of days and meeting times suggested by our local association, the district has had extremely limited availability since bargaining began.

Our local associations are hopeful for much more dialogue this year supporting the best negotiated agreement moving forward. A strong contract supports educators in the way they deserve, and gives students the best learning conditions possible.

08/18/2026

Our heart goes out to the Alaska Gateway communities and families. We joined educators in Tok yesterday morning in preparation for their beginning of the year in-service and professional development, and witnessed firsthand as the Mukluk fire tragically started and began to spread.

In Alaska, we understand how deeply our public schools are woven into the fabric of our communities. They are places of learning, connection, stability, and belonging—and our schools stand with their communities in moments of unimaginable hardship.

Our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with everyone affected by the Mukluk fire, and especially the Alaska Gateway School District community. Please know that you are in our hearts.

08/18/2026

Tomorrow is Primary Election Day, and the future of our public schools, our classrooms, and our retirement security is on the ballot.

In Alaska’s open primary, every single vote influences who advances on to the November General Election. As educators, you are among the most trusted and respected voices in our state—when you speak up, your colleagues, neighbors, and friends will listen.

If you’ve already voted, thank you! If you’re voting tomorrow, take one more look at the NEA-Alaska PACE Committee’s recommended candidates and make a plan to vote.

Then let’s get out the vote and elect public education champions!

These are the recommended candidates for the upcoming election from your PACE committee members.

08/14/2026

We met with Lower Kuskokwim School district educators in beautiful Bethel this week as they began the year learning together before returning to their schools in villages later this week.

LKNEA members convened to talk about their new contract 🎉 and share their hopes and concerns for the coming year. 💕 Welcome back everyone! 🎶 -Laura Capelle, NEA-Alaska

08/07/2026

NEA-Alaska President Laura Capelle has had a great week visiting with educators preparing to teach in our more rural Alaska communities, who are gathering in Anchorage before heading out to the Lower Yukon and Iditarod School Districts.

Best wishes to these educators for a great start to their new school year! 📚

08/04/2026

Early voting for Alaska’s Primary Election has started at a state polling location near you, from now until August 17! Need help finding info on early voting locations and hours? Be sure to visit elections.alaska.gov and make a plan to vote today!

NEA-Alaska encourages everyone to do their research and vote for candidates who best support our students and public schools. Vote for Public Education Heroes today! 🗳️

07/31/2026

Mary Peltola has consistently championed increased federal funding for public schools, especially in rural Alaska communities. She understands the importance of strong public schools and how essential they are to keeping families in Alaska, strengthening communities, and growing our economy.

Educators know that investing in public education is an investment in Alaska's future. That's why the NEA-Alaska PACE Committee is proud to support a candidate who shares that same commitment.

07/31/2026

Reliable internet in Alaska is a lifeline for our rural students, schools, and communities.

A proposed federal review of the E-rate program, which has helped schools and libraries afford internet access for nearly 30 years, could have devastating consequences for Alaska. Rural schools rely on broadband to connect students with classes that aren’t available locally, support distance learning, and give educators access to critical resources. Libraries also provide essential internet access for families, seniors, and entire communities.

At a time when Alaska’s public schools are already facing severe funding challenges, cutting E-rate would only widen the gap between urban and rural students and make it even harder for small communities to thrive.

Read more in this article from Alaska Public Media here:

Alaska school leaders and public librarians are concerned about a potential cut at a time when districts are already struggling with budget deficits.

07/29/2026

The NEA-Alaska PACE committee is proud to recommend Bill Hill for US House. Strong public schools require leaders who understand their value and are committed to investing in them.

As a longtime educator, father, and grandfather, Bill Hill knows that great schools are the foundation of strong communities. That's why we're proud to support his campaign!