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Southeast superintendents press Senate Finance to raise base student allocation
Summary
Superintendents and local education leaders told the committee that stagnant state funding for the base student allocation has forced districts into cuts and staff losses and urged a sustainable increase.
Juneau — School leaders from Ketchikan and Petersburg told the Senate Finance Committee on Feb. 26 that stagnant state funding for the base student allocation, or BSA, has forced districts to make deep cuts and to reduce staff.
Michael Robbins, superintendent of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough School District, said stagnant funding and unpredictable state support has prompted teacher and administrator departures and harmed student continuity. “Teachers, administrators, and superintendents are leaving at an alarming rate,” Robbins said.
Robin Taylor, superintendent of the Petersburg School District, asked for a permanent increase to the BSA so districts can plan for long-term liabilities rather than rely on one-time funds. Taylor said Petersburg cut roughly eight full-time positions last year — “nearly 8.5% of our staff” — which increased class sizes and reduced activity and supply budgets.
Why it matters: Witnesses said one-time infusions do not create financial sustainability. Taylor and Robbins urged the legislature to prioritize a formula change or a permanent BSA increase to prevent further cuts and turnover.
Discussion vs. decision: Testimony was limited to public comment on Senate Bill 56 (operating budget). The committee did not vote or direct staff in the Feb. 26 session reported here.
Ending: The committee plans further testimony in subsequent hearings and will consider budget amendments during the regular legislative process.
