School district plans interim superintendent appointment amid budget veto concerns

In a recent meeting of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly held on June 16, 2025, significant discussions centered around the impact of a recent budget veto and the appointment of an interim superintendent for the school district. These topics are poised to influence the local education landscape and community funding.

The meeting began with a report from a school district representative who addressed the implications of a veto that could result in a funding reduction of approximately one million dollars. This reduction is expected to affect the district's financial planning, and a detailed report is anticipated at the next meeting on June 25. The representative emphasized the importance of this funding for the district's operations and expressed a commitment to providing clarity on the situation as soon as possible.

In a positive development, the district is on track to appoint PJ Ford Slack as the interim superintendent. With nearly three decades of experience in Alaska's education system, Slack's role will be crucial in guiding the district through this transitional period. She is expected to assist in the search for a permanent superintendent, which is a priority for the district moving forward.

The assembly also engaged in discussions regarding student enrollment numbers, which are critical for budgeting and resource allocation. Concerns were raised about potential declines in enrollment, with reports suggesting a loss of over 60 students due to restructuring. The district is currently assessing these numbers to understand their implications better.

Additionally, the assembly reviewed Ordinance 20 70, which pertains to the borough's fiscal year 2026 budget. This ordinance has undergone amendments, including the elimination of a software engineer position, and is now set for further consideration. The assembly's discussions highlighted the importance of thorough budget reviews and community input in shaping the borough's financial future.

Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges and opportunities facing the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, particularly in education funding and leadership. As the assembly prepares for the upcoming meetings, the community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold and what they mean for local schools and services.