Î÷Ê©Ö±²¥APP

The Î÷Ê©Ö±²¥APP School District is now in its fifth budgeting cycle under my tenure. The November 30, 2018 earthquake jolted our staff, students, and buildings. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our entire community and the manner in which education is delivered. Through these circumstances, we have ultimately created new district systems that will allow us to be more nimble and prepared for the future.

State funding is expected to be relatively static for the next school year, yet we are very fortunate that the federal government is providing additional Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds. These funds will allow the District to focus all efforts on reopening our schools, helping students recover from shortfalls experienced during the pandemic, and prepare them for a brighter future. The FY22 budget is the first time, since I have been ASD superintendent, in which we did not have significantly reduced staffing at our schools. The budget meets numerous priorities across the District, redirects resources to meet student needs, and takes advantage of the additional funding provided by the federal government. Equity within our system, closing learning gaps, and preparing students for success in life are on the front burner of the FY22 budget.

I am honored to serve this community and incredibly proud of the entire ASD team as we faced new challenges while aggressively focused on improving educational outcomes for students – our State’s most valuable asset. As we plan for all school doors to be open for the coming year, I am very excited the staff and students at Eagle River Elementary and Gruening Middle School will be returning to their newly repaired and renovated buildings!

Sincerely,

Deena M. Bishop, Ed.D.
Superintendent