Students in Alaska’s capital walked out of school on Thursday to protest Republican Governor Mike Dunleavy’s veto of a $175 million increase in education funding. The walkout was organized by the Alaska Association of Student Governments and involved 40-minute walkouts at schools across the state. Lawmakers fell one vote short in their attempt to override the veto last month, leading to frustration among students who feel they have been ignored in the decision-making process.
Governor Dunleavy vetoed the education funding package in March, citing concerns about the lack of certain provisions he supported, such as bonuses for teachers and changes to the charter school application process. However, lawmakers did not support these additions, questioning their effectiveness and cost. After the veto, Dunleavy initially said he was moving on to other issues, but later stated that he would work with the legislature to pass an increase in funding and needed reforms. The specific increase in funding he would support remains unclear.
School leaders and advocates have called for a $360 million increase in aid, citing the impact of inflation, high energy costs, and teacher shortages. Last year, lawmakers approved a $175 million funding boost, but Dunleavy vetoed half of that amount. The uncertain levels of state support make long-term planning difficult for schools, leading to ongoing challenges with deficits and teacher recruitment. The issue of school funding is expected to remain a key focus for the remainder of the legislative session.
During the walkout, students from Juneau-Douglas High School marched to the state Capitol, carrying signs and chanting “fund our future.” Some legislators joined the students in their protest. Despite their efforts, Republican Rep. Julie Coulombe expressed concerns about the potential for additional funding cuts even if an override of the veto were successful. She encouraged the students to stay engaged in the process and continue advocating for increased funding for education. Students who participated in the walkout emphasized the importance of young people playing an active role in legislative decisions and called on lawmakers to follow through on their commitments to support education.
The walkout and protest in Alaska reflect a broader trend of student activism on education issues across the country. In recent years, students have taken to the streets to demand increased funding for schools, teacher pay raises, and other reforms. The Alaska Association of Student Governments’ protest is just one example of students using their voices to advocate for change in state policies. As the conversation around education funding continues, students are likely to remain engaged in the process and continue to push for the resources and support they need to succeed in school.
Overall, the walkout in Alaska highlighted the frustration felt by students over the lack of action on education funding and the impact of budget cuts on their schools. Despite falling short of the votes needed to override the veto, students remain committed to advocating for increased funding and reforms to support their education. The engagement of young people in the political process serves as a reminder of the important role that students play in shaping policies that affect their futures. With ongoing discussions on education funding in the legislature, students in Alaska and across the country are likely to continue speaking out and demanding the resources they need to succeed in school.
