Alaskan Students Walk Out to Protest Education Veto and Funding Cuts

Alaskan students demonstrated their commitment to education funding by staging a walkout in protest of Republican Governor Mike Dunleavy's recent veto and the Legislature's inability to override it. The walkout was part of a wider protest organized by the executive board of the Alaska Association of Student Governments, with students from schools across Alaska participating in the 40-minute demonstration.

Last month, lawmakers fell just one vote short of overriding Governor Dunleavy's veto, emphasizing the significance of the number 40, which represented the votes needed for the override. Despite their efforts, the veto remained in place, leading students to take a stand for their education.

Student Voice

Felix Myers, a student organizer from Sitka, conveyed the frustration of the students, emphasizing that they have attempted to make their voices heard, but have been disregarded. This sentiment was echoed by Myers, who serves as a student adviser to the state board of education, but stressed that he was not representing the board in his involvement with the walkout.

Myers shared that the walkout was scheduled for 11 a.m. to minimize disruptions and maximize participation.

Dunleavy's Veto

In March, Governor Dunleavy vetoed a $175-million increase in aid to districts through a school funding formula. The package, which was initially approved by lawmakers, did not align with Dunleavy's vision for education, as it lacked provisions he supported, including a teacher retention plan and changes to the charter school application process.

After vetoing the package, Dunleavy pledged to work with the legislature to pass an increase in funding and needed reforms, but did not specify the extent of the funding increase he would support.

Education Funding Struggles

School leaders and advocates have called for a substantial $360 million increase in aid, citing the impact of inflation, high energy and insurance costs, multimillion-dollar deficits, and teacher shortages. They also highlighted the challenge of long-term planning due to unpredictable levels of state support. Last year, a one-time $175-million funding boost was approved by lawmakers, but half of that sum was vetoed by Dunleavy.

Student Protest

During the walkout, students from Juneau-Douglas High School marched to the state Capitol with supporters, including some legislators. The students, carrying handmade signs and chanting slogans, made their presence felt in the Capitol halls, demonstrating their determination to secure funding for their education.

After the walkout, students engaged with Republican Representative Julie Coulombe, expressing concerns about Governor Dunleavy's opposition to the education package. Coulombe assured the students that despite the challenges, efforts to secure additional funding would continue, and she encouraged the students to remain engaged in the process.

Rachel Wood, one of the participating students, emphasized that the event showcased the active role young people can play in the legislative process, expressing hope that lawmakers who voiced support for education would follow through by passing increased funding.