On the Spokane Indian Reservation, in eastern Washington, a group of about 40 public school teachers gathered last month, in a field of reeds that stretched as high as their heads. Before harvesting the reeds, or tules, to make mats, they prayed. Later, they left tobacco as a gift. By learning the rituals of the…
Education
University of Alaska reorganization planning advances toward second phase
The University of Alaska is making progress on its goal to find savings in its academic programs and administration. The process will end in June of next year.
School Board candidate debates – September 19, 2016
On Sept. 19, 2016, four candidates for Juneau School Board — Kevin Allen, Dan DeBartolo, Jason Hart and Steve Whitney — debated the key issues of the race. The Oct. 4 election will fill two open seats on the school board.
North Star Borough School Board member seeks to change school’s name
A member of the Fairbanks North Star Borough School Board is asking to change the name of an elementary school. Michael O’Brien says Badger Road Elementary is named for a convicted pedophile. The historical records show Harry M. Badger admitted to abusing a 10 year old girl.
Homer library debuts bookmobile
Dozens attended a 10-year celebration of the Homer Public Library’s building on Saturday, Sept. 17. The Friends of the Homer Library threw the party that included a musical performance, refreshments and the introduction of a new bookmobile.
JPD asks for school board’s help in kindness initiative
Juneau Police Department wants to try to improve the quality of life in Juneau by encouraging random acts of kindness.
Ketchikan School Board rejects policy that limited memorials
The Ketchikan School Board on Wednesday rejected a policy that would have limited memorials at school facilities. The policy was recommended by the Association of Alaska School Boards. It called for allowing one temporary memorial per loss that would be removed at the end of the school year.
Grant funds expansion of 3-year language revitalization program — and ‘a whole different worldview’
The Sealaska Heritage Institute hopes to create a three-year program, with at least eight participants.
Why Gov. Walker won’t challenge veto reversal
Gov. Walker won’t challenge a decision to reverse his veto of education funding. The state’s budget chief said a challenge would have cost the state time and money in a long court battle.
Petersburg Childrens Center opens with expanded space
The Petersburg Children’s Center started up the new school year September 1 with expanded space and room for more kids. The pre-school and daycare is filled with the sound of singing and activities again, thanks to donated money, labor and materials from individuals, organizations and businesses in town.