‘The Importance of K-12 libraries in Alaska’ by Tana Martin, Librarian/Media Specialist at Tanana Middle School

“We love kids. We love books. We love to serve.” This was a recent consensus made by the combined library staff in Fairbanks North Star Borough School District as to why we work in a school library. And that, my friends, is why K-12 school libraries are important. Kids need love. Kids need books. Kids need help. 

Tanana Middle, Fairbanks – Just Dance Fridays during lunch: Lunch in the library is a Tanana staple. The crowd varies daily from 30-70 students. Just Dance Fridays are icing on the cake. It’s a time to get the wiggles out, and be comfortable in their own skin. (Photo courtesy of Tana Martin @runnergirlT)

Continue reading ‘The Importance of K-12 libraries in Alaska’ by Tana Martin, Librarian/Media Specialist at Tanana Middle School

‘Hutchison High School Encourages Life Long Learning Through CTE’ by Principal Robyn Taylor

James T. Hutchison High School or ‘Hutch’ as we affectionately call it, is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) school of choice within the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District. We enroll approximately 100 students per grade, 9th-12th grade. In addition to our core 400 students, there are 164 students from across the district that attend classes at Hutch on a part-time basis.
Hutch provides an integrated learning environment within a culturally diverse community, where academic and career-technical experiences encourage a life-long love of learning, personal integrity, civic mindedness and preparation for successful post-school employment.

Continue reading ‘Hutchison High School Encourages Life Long Learning Through CTE’ by Principal Robyn Taylor

“I Believe I Can Do Math!” – Fairbanks Summer Math Camp by Mentor Teacher Samantha Wuttig

Students building and exploring 3D shapes.

This June in Fairbanks about 50 middle school students participated in a three week Summer Math Camp. This year’s camp focused on encouraging students to notice and wonder, to see different ways patterns grow, to persevere in solving problems, and to believe in themselves. Continue reading “I Believe I Can Do Math!” – Fairbanks Summer Math Camp by Mentor Teacher Samantha Wuttig

‘The Inspiring Art of Alaska’s Schools’ by Sam Jordan at ASDN

Seal and Salmon Art Installation at Juneau-Douglas High School
Hanging art installation that greets students at Juneau-Douglas High School and the Juneau Community Charter School each day.

“For anyone to grow up complete, art is imperative” – Paul Harvey

Alaska’s schools are beautiful.  When you walk into any school, in any part of the state, you are met by not only the sights and sounds of students learning, but you are greeted by art. Supported by our unique, talented and dedicated Alaskan arts community, schools around the state are filled with paintings, photographs, sculptures, mosaics and objects that reflect the regional stories and landscapes of Alaska. Continue reading ‘The Inspiring Art of Alaska’s Schools’ by Sam Jordan at ASDN

‘Crawford Elementary School at Eielson AFB Celebrates Black History Month’ by Sam Jordan at ASDN

A Crawford ES student discusses entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a political and social activist Madam C.J. Walker.
A Crawford ES student
discusses entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a political and social activist Madam C.J. Walker.

Alaska’s history and its present are uniquely defined by the contributions of African-Americans. From the trailblazers who built of the Alaska Highway during World War II, to military members who serve at our many Armed Forces facilities, to families, leaders and legislators who contribute to our communities and guide our government. Continue reading ‘Crawford Elementary School at Eielson AFB Celebrates Black History Month’ by Sam Jordan at ASDN

‘Newsies Production Puts Lathrop HS Talent on Show in Fairbanks’ by Teacher and NEA-Alaska President Tim Parker

NEWSIES

Nearly 100 students from Lathrop High School have come together for one of the best musical theater productions of the year with “Newsies.” On stage, back stage, and in the box office, the students have put together a real winner of a show. Continue reading ‘Newsies Production Puts Lathrop HS Talent on Show in Fairbanks’ by Teacher and NEA-Alaska President Tim Parker

‘Shadow A Teacher Day’ by Dr. Karen Gaborick, Superintendent of Fairbanks North Star Borough School District

Our Alaskan Schools blog

This year, our district implemented a new initiative called “Shadow a Teacher” to build connections and enhance communication among district staff.  It took place the week of October 1st and was a smashing success. Staff who work behind the scenes to support district functions spent an entire day shadowing teachers who volunteered to host guests in their classrooms. Visitors included staff from facilities maintenance, network services, business administration, human resources, teaching and learning, federal programs, special education, communications, and the superintendent’s office. Even school board members participated!  Continue reading ‘Shadow A Teacher Day’ by Dr. Karen Gaborick, Superintendent of Fairbanks North Star Borough School District