Mount Edgecumbe High School celebrates founding anniversary and health services updates

The Alaska Legislature's House Education Committee convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss various operational aspects of Mount Edgecumbe High School (MEHS), including health services, staffing, and the school's historical significance.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that MEHS has a dedicated health clinic for students residing in the dormitory. The clinic is part of a broader support system that includes contracted food and custodial services. The school also operates an Aquatic Center, which reopened during the pandemic and is now fully functional, staffed by a manager and several student lifeguards.

Committee members inquired about staffing levels, particularly in maintenance. Director Huntington reported that there are currently two vacancies within the maintenance staff, including a building maintenance supervisor and a journeyman maintenance specialist. This staffing situation was clarified amid discussions about the organizational structure of the school.

The meeting also touched on the historical context of MEHS, which was founded on February 22, 1947. The school was established to address overcrowding issues in existing educational institutions following World War II. The founding date is commemorated annually during a "founders week," where students learn about the school's history, fostering a sense of pride and connection to their heritage.

Overall, the discussions underscored the importance of maintaining operational efficiency at MEHS while honoring its historical legacy and ensuring the well-being of its students. The committee's focus on staffing and services reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the educational environment at the school.