Anchorage Schools Cut Programs as $90 Million Shortfall Forces Major Changes

The Anchorage School Board approved a severe budget in February 2026 that cuts over 500 staff positions, including more than 300 teachers, and closes three elementary schools to address a $90 million deficit tied to flat state funding.

Staffing and Facility Statistics

District officials have since added back 60 teachers using one-time state funding while continuing to monitor oil prices for a potential additional $32 million state boost. The board also approved a revised rightsizing plan that relocates STrEaM Academy into the Nunaka Valley building and moves Alaska Native Cultural Charter School into the Lake Hood building.

These moves follow the February 2026 action that produced the largest round of position eliminations in recent years and reduced the number of operating elementary schools by three. The $90 million gap originated from unchanged state funding levels that left the district short of its projected needs.

Program Launch Data

A scaled-back Academies of Anchorage career academy program will begin in fall 2026 as an optional elective open to 10th through 12th graders at all eight comprehensive high schools. The Alaska State Board of Education concluded its June 2026 quarterly meeting in Anchorage with actions on educational programs and appointments that affect district operations.

These figures come directly from board records and state education updates. Officials have stated they will track oil-price developments for any further revenue adjustments before the next budget cycle.

The district will implement the revised building assignments and the elective program rollout using the restored positions and one-time funds already allocated. Families can review the updated building locations and course options through the district website ahead of the fall 2026 start.