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LEADERSHIP & ADVOCACY
Governing with Dignity
Lon Garrison, AASB Executive Director
At the AASB Annual Conference, we had the unique opportunity to hear from Tami Pyfer, the co-creator of the Dignity Index. AASB leadership and staff were introduced to the Dignity Index at the 2024 NSBA Annual Conference last April when Tim Schriver spoke to the assembly of over 5,000 school board members nationwide. The message was simple: through dignity, we can find ways to communicate, develop relationships, and work together to address the many challenges our society faces. Upon the conclusion of his remarks, we knew this timely message was something we needed to bring to Alaska.
We were fortunate to connect with Tami Pyfer, the co-creator and Chief of Staff for UNITE, the nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the Dignity Index. She graciously agreed to discuss the Dignity Index and her work with us.
It’s no surprise to learn that Tami has an extensive background in public education in Utah. She served four years on the Utah State Board of Education and spent another eight years as the Education Policy Advisor to Utah Governor Gary Herbert. During this time, Tami developed various practices and gained insights that ultimately contributed to the creation of the Dignity Index.
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Legislative Advocacy Resources
These resources are designed to help school board members become more effective education advocates during the upcoming legislative session and beyond. They provide valuable insights into current policies, funding mechanisms, and key issues affecting Alaska’s public schools, equipping you to engage confidently and knowledgeably with both legislators and your community.
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BOARD DEVELOPMENT
A Grateful Goodbye: Reflections on My Journey with AASB
Timi Tullis, Associate Executive Director
I consider myself one of the luckiest people in Alaska—and I genuinely mean that. Over the last 24 years, I have been blessed to have a job that I love, and I felt as if I could make a difference in our state and for all the students served by our public schools.
Growing up, my teachers seemed to have a theme when it came to my report cards: "Timi is joyful and fun to have in class, though she is a little bossy and talks a lot." Today, we know that being "bossy" is just a sign of incorrectly defined leadership skills. Fast forward and think about how fortunate I am to have found a place to embrace leadership, express myself and TALK a lot—definitely a win-win situation.
I have had the privilege of traveling across this incredible state, working to help students succeed. I've supported school boards in understanding their roles, assisted districts with strategic planning, and spent time with youth to enhance their leadership skills. Each experience has taught me something new, and I cherish every opportunity to learn.
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BOARD DEVELOPMENT
Pete Hoepfner Joins the AASB Team
AASB is thrilled to welcome Pete Hoepfner to the AASB team as our new Board Development Coordinator! Pete brings a wealth of experience to this role, having served on his local school board in Cordova for 18 years, the AASB Board of Directors for 14 years, and the NSBA Board of Directors for 3 years.
Transitioning from a career as a commercial fisherman and chocolatier, Pete is eager to bring his passion for good governance and public education to his new role. Working remotely from Cordova, Pete begin his new position on December 9th. Welcome aboard Pete!
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CONDITIONS FOR LEARNING
Youth Leadership Institute 2024
Chookán, Lakrisha Brady, Youth & Cultural Education Coordinator
AASB’s Annual Conference and Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) were held on November 7th - 10th in Anchorage, Alaska. Historically, this conference has been a great opportunity for school board members and youth leaders from across the state to gather and work together on issues affecting Alaska’s schools.
This year we had representatives from 27 different school districts, and a total of 77 students and 37 chaperones. Each student had opportunities to attend breakout sessions tailored to Alaskan youth who want to grow their leadership and communication skills.
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TECHNOLOGY STRATEGIES
Arts in Education
Jesse Carnahan, CEO, Lynx Education
How Hoonah City Schools is creating a template for incorporating arts in schools throughout Alaska and beyond
Hoonah City Schools (HCS) is working hard to leverage a 5-year Assistance for Arts Education grant (U.S. Department of Education) through a multidisciplinary approach of embedding arts into all areas of learning. One of the foundational pillars of the program is including local artists in residence to teach students cultural and place-based art into their academics.
HCS is also working with local organizations and businesses to tie in area-wide initiatives and projects so that student learning is authentic, meaningful, and relevant. These partners bring the school talent, specialists, and outside connections that are rarely seen so tied into the local schools. It is a refreshing and invigorating model that opens the doors of the school to parents and community members, while extending student learning opportunities outside the walls of the classroom.
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Investing in Students, Strengthening Public Schools
AASB's Annual Conference Energizes Alaska’s Education Community
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AASB’s 71st Annual Conference & Youth Leadership Institute brought together Alaska’s education leaders in an unforgettable weekend of inspiration, connection, and growth.
From November 7-10 at the Hilton Anchorage, over 350 attendees—including school board members, superintendents, students, chaperones, sponsors, partner organizations, and legislators—came together to explore this year’s theme, Investing in Students, Strengthening Public Schools.
The conference offered a unique opportunity for networking, learning, and building meaningful connections across Alaska’s educational community.
The four day event was filled with powerful insights and dynamic discussions. Highlights included two keynote sessions by inspiring speakers, Aleesha Towns-Bain of the Bristol Bay Foundation and Tami Pyfer, co-creator of the Dignity Index. Attendees also engaged in 15 breakout sessions on essential education topics, while youth participants explored leadership skills through the Youth Leadership Institute (YLI).
Students attending YLI participated in enriching experiences through team-building, workshops, and discussions on advocacy, self-care, and responsible social media use. Special moments included a motivational talk by Nick Hanson, the "Eskimo Ninja," and roundtable sessions where students shared insights directly with school board members. Through these experiences, young leaders were empowered to envision positive changes for their schools and communities.
With events like Ready, Set, Govern, the Experienced Board Member Academy, and a myriad of interactive workshops, attendees left inspired and well prepared to champion Alaska’s education future.
In addition, this year’s June Nelson Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser raised over $16,000 to support scholarships that students can apply toward their post-secondary education.
A heartfelt thanks to all attendees, sponsors, and partners for making this year’s conference a memorable success!
Conference resources and slides are available on the conference app and on AASB Connect. For assistance, please call our office at (907) 463-1660 or email aasb@aasb.org.
Photos © Jesse Carnahan/Lynx Education & AASB
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AASB Executive Director Lon Garrison welcomed attendees to the 71st Annual Conference. | Northwest Arctic Borough School Board member Marie Greene shares her perspective during a meeting with YLI students, highlighting the conference's many opportunities for connection and collaboration between elders and youth. | | |
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Friday’s opening ceremony began with a youth color guard and a performance by Dance Contempo Company of Bettye Davis East Anchorage High Schools. | |
Aleesha Towns-Bain, Executive Director of the Bristol Bay Foundation, opened her Friday General Session keynote by lighting a Naniq. She shared powerful insights on leadership, mentorship, authenticity, and the importance of building meaningful relationships. | |
Saturday’s Keynote speaker, Tami Pyfer of The Dignity Index, offered conflict advice: avoid demonizing others, strive to understand different perspectives, and approach questions with curiosity. She urged attendees to prioritize dignity in their conversations, | |
The Anchorage School District was recognized as AASB’s 2024 Outstanding School Board of the Year. This prestigious award celebrates their leadership, commitment to excellence, and dedication to supporting the success and well-being of students, staff, and families. | |
Jenny "Boomer" Bryant of Galena City School District is the winner of the 2024 Carl Rose Governance Award in honor of her dedication and years of service to Alaska's youth. Fellow board members Shirley Cleaver and Karin Bodony accepted the award on her behalf. | |
Senator Lisa Murkowski
addressed attendees during Saturday's General Session. | |
The June Nelson Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser featured many beautiful handmade items donated by school board members. The event raised over $16,000 for student scholarships. | |
Deena Bishop, Commissioner of Education and Early Development, provided an update on recent developments at DEED, and shared administration priorities for Alaska 's public education system. | |
Conference attendees participate in a panel discussion. | Jesse Carnahan, CEO of Lynx Education, joined by Lynx team members, educators and industry professionals, gave insightful presentations on a variety of critical topics tailored for school boards. These included enhancing student health initiatives, integrating artificial intelligence in education, leveraging digital storytelling to engage communities, and repurposing outdated technology into new opportunities. | |
During round table discussions, students and school board members exchanged perspectives on issues affecting schools and shared advice on addressing these challenges collaboratively. | |
AASB Board President Margo Bellamy gave an update on the organization's operations, highlighting key achievements over the past year, its active involvement in key national events, and state and federal advocacy efforts. | |
Snapshot Sessions gave attendees the chance to participate in four focused "mini-sessions," selecting from 28 organizations and companies presenting on a variety of topics. These sessions offered fresh ideas and practical strategies for attendees to apply in their schools and communities. | |
Andrea Watts of Watts Advocacy led The Art and Science of Advocacy workshop focusing on crafting compelling stories to advance AASB's legislative priorities and promote investment in Alaska education. | |
Honoring Timi Tullis’ 24-Year Journey with AASB - The AASB Board of Directors honored outgoing Associate Executive Director Timi Tullis for her 24 years of dedicated service to the organization. As Timi prepares for her well-deserved retirement, the board celebrated her support for Alaska’s school boards and communities. In gratitude for her years of service, the board presented Timi with a thoughtfully curated basket of gifts as a token of appreciation. | |
Striking a Pose - Conference attendees couldn’t resist the fun of snapping selfies with oversized “Timi masks on a stick,” adding a playful and personal touch to the celebration of her career. The masks brought plenty of laughs and perfectly captured the spirit of Timi’s larger-than-life personality. | |
Youth Leadership Institute | |
The Youth Leadership Institute provided students from across Alaska a dynamic schedule of activities aimed at fostering leadership, collaboration, and personal growth. Attendees engaged in team-building exercises, vision planning, and creative workshops, while chaperones explored strategies to support youth leadership. Highlights included sessions on youth roles in governance, creative reflections on leadership, and cultural activities like NYO Games practice that focused on empowering Alaska's next generation of leaders. | |
All Hands on Deck! YLI students participated in interactive activities designed to build confidence and strengthen connections. | |
Drawing from his experience as a world-class athlete and advocate for Alaska Native youth, Nick Hanson, "The Eskimo Ninja," inspired participants with lessons on perseverance, teamwork, and the importance of embracing cultural identity | |
Round table conversations enabled students to voice their ideas and concerns directly to decision-makers, while board members gained insights into the needs of youth they serve. | |
Students outlined goals for fostering a positive school culture. These plans were shared with school board members, sparking discussion and paving the way for collaborative action. | |
Claudia Plesa facilitated a Youth Leadership Institute student panel discussion, where student leaders shared their perspectives on key issues affecting their schools and communities. | |
Picturing the Future - The Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) gave students a platform to share their vision for positive change in their schools and communities. The event equipped them with the skills, confidence, and tools to amplify their voices and create meaningful impact. Through collaboration, mentorship, and targeted sessions, students explored how their leadership can help shape a promising future. Photos © Jesse Carnahan | Lynx Education | |
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Many thanks to our sponsors for helping to make
AASB's 71st Annual Conference a success!
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Join us at the Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage this December for an exciting lineup of engaging and informative training sessions designed for School Board members and Executive Administrative Assistants!
PLEASE NOTE: The Room Block for December Conferences
has been extended through Friday, December 6.
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Executive Administrative Assistants Training
Thursday, Dec. 12 – Friday, Dec. 13
Hotel Captain Cook
AASB’s annual Executive Administrative Assistants training allows Executive Administrative Assistants from around the state to connect, learn and engage with each other.
Topics will include:
- Role of the Board Secretary
- New Laws & Regulations
- Open Meetings Act & Roberts Rules of Order
- Keeping Track of Board Policy
- Your Role in School Board Elections
…and more!
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Winter Boardsmanship
Academy
Friday, Dec. 13 – Saturday, Dec.14
Hotel Captain Cook
AASB’s Winter Boardsmanship Academy allows School Board Members from around the state to connect, learn and engage with each other around school law & policy and other pertinent topics.
Topics will include:
- School Law & Policy with Clint Campion
- Teacher Recruitment & Retention
- Your Role in Conduct & Ethics
- A.I. & Selling Old Tech with Lynx Education
…and more!
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Thank you to our PLUS Sponsors for making this event possible! | |
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First-Term Board Member
Webinar Series
Thru February 18, 2025
Registration is FREE and open now!
Whether you’re just getting started on your board, or want to brush up on the basics, AASB’s First-Term Board Member Webinar Series is for you!
This series of 7 First-Term Board Member Webinars is free for our members and will be held from October through February. We will cover topics such as conducting effective meetings, school finance, working with your community, school law, and more.
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NEXT WEBINAR IN THE SERIES:
The Funding Formula with DEED
December 17, Noon - 1:00 pm
The Alaska Funding Formula can be intimidating when one first joins the school board. This special presentation on the funding formula by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development staff members Jared De Lara, Foundation program specialist, and Lori Weed, School Finance Manager, will help you better understand what goes into the funding formula so you can better understand the development of your district’s budget. Register for this webinar
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2025 School Climate & Connectedness Survey (SCCS)
We invite your school districts to participate in the 2025 School Climate & Connectedness Survey (SCCS).
Each year, the majority of Alaska school districts collect and use school climate data to improve and strengthen school environments, relationships, and connections between students, staff and families.
Participating in SCCS also opens up additional opportunities for grant programs through AASB to support initiatives to improve school climate.
2025 Statewide SCCS Window: January 27 – March 21
Districts select one 4-week window for students & staff.
Window 1: January 27 – February 21
Window 2: February 24 – March 21
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Join Our Growing Team!
At AASB, you can make an impact across Alaska. We are advocates for Alaska’s youth. Join our growing team! AASB is now accepting applications for the following position. Click on the title to see the full job description.
Board Liaison Coordinator
Build strong relationships with school boards and school districts on behalf of AASB, offer high-quality services to school board members and school district staff to improve governance and board services, offer services and coaching to school boards and districts to achieve grant partnership goals to improve conditions for learning, and serve as a liaison between AASB’s internal teams.
Fatherhood/Family Partnership Coordinator (Alaska STRONG Project Manager)
A full or part-time position to support school district and community staff working with fathers and co-parents to engage in culturally responsive learning and play with their child with experience and passion for family and school partnerships, strengthening the roles of fathers, enjoying collaborating with state and federal partners, and appreciating local knowledge/contexts.
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Superintendent's Contracts
John Ptacin, Sedor, Wendlandt, Evans & Filippi, LLC
Part 4 of the series Back to Basics
Superintendents experience many “firsts” when they start working for your District. More often than not, the negotiation of their own personal contract is the first thing they will do as Superintendent.
If your Superintendent followed a traditional path—that of a teacher, then a principal, and then a Superintendent—they have already reviewed a lot of contracts. But there are still a number of pitfalls to avoid during the negotiation of any contract.
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Consent agenda: great tool for speedier meetings
Ann Macfarlane, Professional Parliamentarian
One of the most useful tools for efficient meetings is a “consent agenda.” This is a single item of business on a regular agenda that includes several items bundled together. The items cannot be
discussed or debated. They are approved with a single vote.
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Is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) considered a contract? Does the board approve MOUs or MOAs?
Answer:
An MOU is very different than an MOA. An MOU is a document used to delineate an understanding of two organization’s roles or responsibilities. It is not usually regarded as a formal contract.
An MOA on the other hand is usually regarded as a contract which often includes goods, services, and compensation.
Unless specific board authorization is required, either document does not usually require board consideration. Of course there are exceptions when spending authority requires board approval or it is a government to government action of such significance it should require board approval.
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Anonymized Threat Response Guidance toolkit
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released the Anonymized Threat Response Guidance: A Toolkit for K-12 Schools, a new resource to help kindergarten through grade 12 (K-12) schools and their law enforcement and community partners create tailored approaches to addressing anonymous threats of violence, including those received on social media.
The toolkit outlines steps school leaders can take to assess and respond to anonymous threats, better prepare for, and prevent future threats, and work in coordination with law enforcement and other local partners when threats arise.
Free Resource Materials
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Threat Assessment Team - Support Webinar
December 9, 2:30-3:30 pm
Does your school have a Threat Assessment Team (TAT)? A TAT develops plans to identify and support students at risk of harming themselves or others. Two one-hour follow-up sessions, led by Kyra Meyer, Ph.D., and Lieutenant Scott McCumby, will share procedures successfully used in Valdez, Alaska, and aligned with Alaska Statutes. The session can help you start building a strong team to support students and your school community.
Questions: pat.sidmore@alaska.gov
Zoom Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83737397534?pwd=d95lKwLwirQfUQpKlcabqm1zWCKMlV.1
Meeting ID: 837 3739 7534
Passcode: 707238
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Free Cyber In Minecraft for Alaska Schools
Prodigy Learning in partnership with Microsoft and the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, is offering the Cyber in Minecraft credential program to public schools statewide at no cost.
This program, similar to Coding in Minecraft, provides a comprehensive curriculum through Minecraft Education. Students complete three courses in a Minecraft environment, learning key cybersecurity topics like Digital Citizenship, Networking, and Security.
DEED is also offering free licenses and virtual professional learning sessions for teachers.
Information & Registration
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Free Resources to Combat Youth Tobacco
and Vaping in Alaska Schools
Alaska schools can get free resources to help address youth tobacco, vaping, and nicotine use including new material for young students and links between tobacco use and mental health. Many Alaska students are struggling with tobacco and nicotine use.
Almost 1 out of 4 high school students (23%) used a tobacco product. This includes all types of tobacco and nicotine products, like e-cigarettes, cigarettes, and nicotine pouches. That’s according to new 2023 Alaska Youth Risk Behavior Survey data.
Free School Resources
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Helping Rural Students Succeed:
Alaska’s Career Guide Program Debuts
Alaska's Departments of Labor and Education have launched the Alaska Career Guide initiative to help rural students achieve postsecondary success and strengthen the state’s workforce.
In partnership with the national nonprofit rootEd Alliance and local organizations such as the Bristol Bay Regional Career and Technical Education Consortium and Sealaska Heritage Institute, the program trains Career Guides to offer personalized career planning, skills development, and financial aid guidance.
Tailored to Alaska's cultural and regional needs, the initiative aims to close gaps in rural education by improving career readiness, college enrollment, and FAFSA completion rates. Stakeholders at last fall's Workforce Investment Board meeting and FAFSA Summit identified Career Guides as essential, and the Association of Alaska School Boards has since led a statewide effort involving over 100 participants to support the program. These collaborative efforts highlight broad support for career guidance as a tool for building economic stability in Alaska.
Read More:
Career Guide Press Release from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development
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Alaska Middle School Student Wins America’s First National Civics Bee Championship
Emily Brubaker, a 14-year-old student from Romig Middle School in Anchorage, won the inaugural National Civics Bee Championship, earning the title of America’s first National Civics Bee champion. Emily was awarded the Bill Daniels National Civics Award and a $100,000 529 Plan education savings account. Her insightful responses and deep understanding of civic issues distinguished her in the final buzzer round, highlighting her potential as a future leader.
Hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition aims to spark civic engagement and empower young Americans to contribute to their communities. The championship. held in Washington, D.C., brought together 27 state finalists who showcased their civic knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Read More:
Alaska Middle School Student Wins America’s First National Civics Bee Championship - U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Alaska middle-schooler claims victory, $100K as winner of first-ever National Civics Bee - Olivia Nordyke, Alaska's News Source
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Anchorage – Anchorage School Board still ‘wide open’ on proposed school closures – Jenna Kunze, ADN
Anchorage – New security visitor management system to be in every ASD school by January – Alaska's News Source
Dalta Junction – It was hands on learning for Delta Elementary students regarding elections – Principal Milton Hooten, Delta Wind
Dillingham – Dillingham City School District School Board considers policy change on withholding academic materials for unpaid fees – Margaret Sutherland, KDLG
Fairbanks – Fairbanks schools could face $32M budget shortfall – KTUU
Juneau – Positive ending: School district emerges from fiscal crisis with first audit without a deficit in years – Mark Sabbatini, Juneau Empire
Kenai – School board considers ‘hypothetical’ 4-day calendar, asks for community survey – Jacob Dye, Peninsula Clarion
Ketchikan – School Board to update borough on budget – Ketchikan Daily News
Kodiak – District seeks views on proposed health curriculum – Steve Williams, Kodiak Daily Mirror
Lower Kuskokwim – Underwater internet fiber cables bring Bethel a step closer to faster, cheaper internet – Sage Smiley, KYUK
Mat-Su – Mat-Su Schools to Pay $89K in Book Ban Suit – James Brooks, Alaska Beacon
Nome – Nome teachers rally for higher wages, new contract amid rising cost of living – Ben Townsend, KNOM
More Alaska School District News
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State Rep. Andi Story to co-chair House Education Committee under new Democrat-led majority – Mark Sabbatini, Juneau Empire
Bipartisan coalitions claim control of both Alaska House and Senate – Eric Stone, Alaska Public Media
What to expect from the 34th Alaska Legislature – Eric Stone, Alaska Public Media
U.S. House passes bill to move up annual FAFSA release deadline – Shauneen Miranda, Alaska Beacon
Students can now apply for federal college aid. Officials hope for a smoother rollout this year – AP
Senators Murkowski, Sullivan welcome passage of Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act – Katie Stavick, Frontiersman
Senator Murkowski Supports Passage of the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act – Alaska Native News
Alaska school districts could take financial hit as education department considers tighter limits on local funding – Sean Maguire, ADN
Alaska House Speaker’s comments raise concerns over voter disenfranchisement – Delta Discovery
Trump won the presidency. What does that mean for education? – Shauneen Miranda, Alaska Beacon
State education board moves toward cellphone policy for schools – Claire Stremple & Larry Persily, Wrangell Sentinel
UAA launches Alaska’s first in-state training program for school psychologists – Rachel Cassandra, Alaska Public Media
More State and Federal News
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Looking for a New Superintendent?
The Association of Alaska School Boards has been conducting successful and economical superintendent searches for over twenty years. Our Superintendent Search Service provides expert facilitation of the entire search process, including identifying the needs of the district, recruiting candidates, conducting background searches, facilitating interviews, and all the steps to help with the hiring process.
If you would like AASB to conduct a superintendent search for your district, or have questions, Learn More or Contact Us
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2024-2025 AASB Board of Directors
Back Row, left to right: Tim Doran, Fairbanks North Star Borough; Dana Mock, Delta/Greely; Pete Hoepfner, Cordova; Andy Holleman, Anchorage; Clarence Daniel, Lower Kuskokwim.
Middle Row, left to right: Penny Vadla, Kenai; Julia Phelan, Delta/Greely; Michael Swain, Bristol Bay; Darlene Trigg, Nome.
Front Row, left to right: Kasaŋnaaluk, Marie Greene, Northwest Arctic Borough; Margo Bellamy, Anchorage; Robyn Burke, North Slope Borough; Annie Weyiouanna, Bering Strait; Melissa Burnett, Fairbanks North Star Borough. Not pictured: Amber Frommherz, Juneau
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Association of Alaska School Boards | aasb.org | |
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