Over the past decade, Anchorage school enrollment has witnessed a decrease of over 5,000 students. Currently, the district, which comprises approximately 18 schools, is contemplating a reduction in their number.
The primary cause behind this decline in enrollment is attributed to a budget gap of $68 million last year. In response to this fiscal challenge, the district is exploring the possibility of shuttering certain schools as a measure to bridge the financial deficit. Jim, the chief financial officer, has suggested that the district stands to save around $4 million by closing five elementary schools.
Closing district schools emerges as the sole viable option to address the budget gap. While the district must endorse a balanced budget by February, there is a prospect of one-time state assistance arriving a few months later, potentially alleviating some of the financial pressures.
