Anchorage Voters Approve Funding to Protect Teaching Jobs

Propositions 9 and 1 will provide $11.8 million to maintain class sizes and school safety

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A serene, cinematic painting of an empty school hallway in Anchorage, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows casting a contemplative mood, representing the importance of education and the need to support teachers and students.The passage of local funding measures signals a renewed commitment to supporting Anchorage's public schools and the dedicated teachers who serve the community.Anchorage Today

In a move to support Anchorage's public schools, voters have approved Proposition 9, which will provide $11.8 million in local funding to protect approximately 90 teaching positions. This funding is seen as crucial to maintaining manageable class sizes and allowing teachers to effectively educate students, rather than simply managing larger crowds. The passage of Proposition 1 will also help staff and keep schools safe. These measures are viewed as a win for Anchorage's teachers and students.

Why it matters

Alaska has been struggling to retain experienced educators, with many leaving the profession due to factors like lack of pension benefits and larger class sizes with fewer resources. The approval of Propositions 9 and 1 aims to address these challenges and provide the necessary support for Anchorage's public schools and the teachers who serve the community.

The details

Proposition 9 will provide $11.8 million in local funding to protect approximately 90 teaching positions in the Anchorage School District. This funding is seen as crucial to maintaining manageable class sizes, with the difference between a class of 21 and 28 students being 'monumental' for a kindergarten or first-grade student. Proposition 1 will also help staff and keep Anchorage's schools safe.

  • Proposition 9 and Proposition 1 were approved by Anchorage voters in the 2026 election.

The players

Beth Kemp

A former kindergarten and first-grade teacher in Anchorage who now substitutes and volunteers at local schools, Kemp has witnessed the incredible work being done by Anchorage educators and the need for more support.

Anchorage School District

The public school district serving the city of Anchorage, Alaska, which will benefit from the additional funding provided by Propositions 9 and 1 to maintain class sizes and school safety.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I see incredible work being done by Anchorage educators. I see teachers and Anchorage School District staff going above and beyond on a daily basis. I see engaged kids learning other languages, creating incredible art and music, engaging in interesting discussions, and learning how to be well-rounded kids that can adapt in an ever-changing world.”

— Beth Kemp, Former Anchorage Teacher

The takeaway

The passage of Propositions 9 and 1 in Anchorage represents a significant step forward in supporting the city's public schools and teachers. By providing additional funding to maintain class sizes and school safety, these measures aim to address longstanding challenges and ensure that Anchorage's students receive the high-quality education they deserve.