03/12/2025 03:30 PM Senate EDUCATION
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB18 | |
| SB6 | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s) | |
| Adjourn |
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| *+ | SB 18 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | HB 69 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 6 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE EDUCATION STANDING COMMITTEE
March 12, 2025
3:32 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Löki Tobin, Chair
Senator Gary Stevens, Vice Chair
Senator Jesse Bjorkman
Senator Jesse Kiehl
Senator Mike Cronk
MEMBERS ABSENT
All members present
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
SENATE BILL NO. 18
"An Act relating to wireless telecommunications devices in
public schools; and providing for an effective date."
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE BILL NO. 6
"An Act requiring education in the history and contributions of
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders."
- MOVED CSSB 6(EDC) OUT OF COMMITTEE
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
Professional Teaching Practices Commission
Heidi Barnes - Wasilla
Kimberly Bergey - Palmer
- CONFIRMATIONS ADVANCED
Board of Education and Early Development
Kimberly Bergey - Palmer
Kathryn McCollum - Wasilla
- CONFIRMATION ADVANCED
COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 69(RLS) AM
"An Act relating to education; relating to open enrollment in
public schools; relating to school and student performance
reports; relating to school and district accountability;
relating to charter schools; relating to an annual report for
correspondence study programs; relating to the base student
allocation; relating to reading proficiency incentive grants;
relating to wireless telecommunications devices in public
schools; relating to the duty of the legislature to pass a
public education appropriation bill; relating to the duty of the
governor to prepare a public education appropriation bill;
establishing the Task Force on Education Funding; relating to a
report on regulation of school districts; and providing for an
effective date."
- PENDING REFERRAL
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: SB 18
SHORT TITLE: COMMUNICATION DEVICES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) WIELECHOWSKI
01/10/25 (S) PREFILE RELEASED 1/10/25
01/22/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/22/25 (S) EDC
03/12/25 (S) EDC AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SB 6
SHORT TITLE: ASIAN AMERICAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER PROGRAM
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) GRAY-JACKSON
01/10/25 (S) PREFILE RELEASED 1/10/25
01/22/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/22/25 (S) EDC, FIN
02/17/25 (S) EDC AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
02/17/25 (S) Heard & Held
02/17/25 (S) MINUTE(EDC)
03/12/25 (S) EDC AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
WITNESS REGISTER
SENATOR BILL WIELECHOWSKI, District K
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Sponsor of SB 18.
DERSU SEATER, Mentee
Senator Bill Wielechowski
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Introduced SB 18.
DEBORAH RIDDLE, Division Operations Manager
Innovation and Education Excellence Division
Department of Education and Early Development
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided a review of the fiscal note for SB
18.
MATTHEW WITTHOEFT, Principle
Begich Middle School
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified by invitation on SB 18.
DORA WILSON, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified by invitation on SB 18.
SALLY DONALDSON, School Counselor
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 18.
MOREAN HALL, representing self
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 18.
ALLISON CURRY, representing self
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 18.
MICHAEL MASON, Staff
Senator Löki Tobin
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Introduced the summary of changes for SB 6,
version A to version N.
HEIDI BARNES, Appointee
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Professional Teaching Practices Commission.
KIMBERLY BERGEY, Appointee
Board of Education and Early Development
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Board of Education and Early Development.
KATHRYN MCCOLLUM, Appointee
Board of Education and Early Development
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Board of Education and Early Development.
KIMBERLY BERGEY, Appointee
Professional Teaching Practices Commission
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Professional Teaching Practices Commission.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:32:02 PM
CHAIR TOBIN called the Senate Education Standing Committee
meeting to order at 3:32 p.m. Present at the call to order were
Senators Cronk, Stevens, Bjorkman, and Chair Tobin. Senator
Kiehl arrived thereafter.
SB 18-COMMUNICATION DEVICES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
3:33:04 PM
CHAIR TOBIN announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 18
"An Act relating to wireless telecommunications devices in
public schools; and providing for an effective date."
3:33:23 PM
SENATOR BILL WIELECHOWSKI, District K, Alaska State Legislature,
Juneau, Alaska, sponsor of SB 18, introduced Mr. Seater his
mentee, and briefly shared how he came to sponsor SB 18. He
admitted to initial hesitation but was persuaded after hearing
positive reports of improved student discipline from a principal
who initiated a no cell phone policy.
3:35:22 PM
DERSU SEATER, Mentee, Senator Bill Wielechowski, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, introduced SB 18 and explained that
SB 18 requires the Alaska Department of Education and Early
Development to create a model policy prohibiting non-school-
issued wireless devices in schools. School districts must adopt
either this model or a comparable policy, and must have
emergency exemptions. He described cell phone misuse as a
growing epidemic harming students' mental health and academic
outcomes. Referring to studies and personal experiences, he said
unrestricted phone use leads to distraction, reduced engagement,
and diminished learning, contrasting environments at East High
and Winterberry Charter School.
3:39:00 PM
MS. SEATER argued that loose cell phone policies normalize
disengagement, while structured restrictions promote
accountability and improved performance. He addressed school
safety concerns, citing expert opinion that phones create risks
during emergencies. He concluded by urging the committee to
support SB 18, emphasizing its flexibility, community control,
and broad teacher support.
3:41:01 PM
SENATOR STEVENS said there is strong support in Alaska for local
control of school districts. He asked whether SB 18 offers
options for districts or if the bill eliminates cell phone use
in schools entirely.
3:41:34 PM
MR. SEATER replied that SB 18 allows some flexibility for school
districts. He stated that districts must prohibit the use or
possession of cell phones during class hours, lunch, and passing
periods. He clarified that the method of enforcement is left to
each district's discretion.
3:42:23 PM
CHAIR TOBIN noted that SB 18, page 2, includes exemptions for
wireless communication during emergencies but does not mention
medical use. She asked for clarification on why the bill does
not provide an exemption for individuals using a cellular device
for medical purposes.
3:42:42 PM
MR. SEATER stated that under the current version of the SB 18,
"emergency purposes" includes medical emergencies or the
prevention of such emergencies, such as using a glucose monitor.
He added that if the committee wants to clarify this further,
the sponsors are open to amending the bill to explicitly
reference medical emergencies or medical needs.
3:43:32 PM
CHAIR TOBIN asked how SB 18 might affect students in specialized
programs who need to use personal devices during school hours.
She expressed concern that the policy could hinder students in
academic programs who rely on unrestricted internet access for
learning.
3:44:13 PM
MR. SEATER replied that since SB 18 leaves many details to local
school districts, students could bring concerns to their local
school boards. He stated that districts might choose to create
exemptions or adjust policies to accommodate student needs.
3:44:47 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that another bill is moving through
the legislature that allows more flexibility for local school
districts, while SB 18 is more prescriptive. He explained that
SB 18 would strictly prohibit the use of non-school-issued
wireless telecommunication devices, whereas the other bill would
require school districts or the Department of Education to
regulate the use of the device. He said the sponsors would not
object if the committee decided to revise SB 18 to allow more
local control.
CHAIR TOBIN asked whether SB 18 would also prohibit the use of
other types of personal wireless telecommunication devices, such
as gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch.
3:46:05 PM
MR. SEATER replied that, as a student, he has not seen anyone
bring a Nintendo Switch or similar gaming device to school. He
stated that the current definition of wireless telecommunication
devices likely does not include those types of gaming devices.
He added that the definition could be amended if the committee
wishes to address that.
CHAIR TOBIN stated that, according to some students, the issue
is not cell phones but unengaging classes and large class sizes
that reduce education quality. She said students have expressed
a preference for distractions due to these conditions. She noted
that students have called for an increase in the Base Student
Allocation (BSA) to improve class sizes and instruction quality
instead of banning cell phones. She asked for thoughts on that
perspective.
3:47:19 PM
MR. SEATER said that addressing student disengagement requires a
two-sided approach. He expressed support for increasing the Base
Student Allocation but noted, from personal experience, that
even in small classes, such as his AP Spanish class with 10 to
15 students, about half the students are on their phones
throughout the period. He stated that the teacher is exhausted
from managing phone use alone. He suggested that this policy
would give teachers a clear mandate from the state, reducing the
burden on them and avoiding confrontational enforcement.
3:48:05 PM
SENATOR KIEHL joined the meeting.
3:48:27 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI said he supports increasing the Base
Student Allocation and reducing class sizes. However, he stated
that cell phones remain a widespread issue, even in smaller
classes, as noted by Mr. Seater. He emphasized that removing the
burden of enforcement from teachers and establishing a clear
state policy would be beneficial, adding that teachers could
"blame" the legislature for the rule. He said SB 18 aims to keep
phones out of classrooms during instructional time, while
allowing flexibility for districts to permit use during lunch,
breaks, and educational need.
3:49:25 PM
SENATOR STEVENS expressed support for SB 18 and acknowledged the
classroom disruption caused by cell phone use. He asked to
further explore the medical exemption issue. He gave the example
of a glucose monitor, which requires immediate attention, and
questioned whether there are other medical devices or
conditions, such as heart monitors, that should be considered.
He clarified that this would not mean allowing unrestricted
phone use but asked if there are additional medical needs SB 18
should address.
3:50:13 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI noted that this was the first Senate
hearing on SB 18 and acknowledged that the House conducted
several hearings and did good work on the issue. He explained
that the House version includes a regulatory approach rather
than a strict prohibition and includes model policy language
requiring exceptions for medical and translation purposes. He
emphasized that translation is particularly important in diverse
schools, such as East Anchorage High, where students speak up to
95 different languages. He said the House policy also allows use
in emergencies or when a teacher or administrator grants
permission for educational purposes. He supported clarifying
that medical use, including non-emergency situations like
glucose monitoring, should be allowed and stated he supports
giving districts more local control.
3:51:41 PM
CHAIR TOBIN said the committee would now discuss the fiscal note
for SB 18.
3:52:16 PM
DEBORAH RIDDLE, Division Operations Manager, Innovation and
Education Excellence Division, Department of Education and Early
Development, Juneau, Alaska, provided a review of the fiscal
note for SB 18, OMB component 2796, dated March 7, 2025. She
said SB 18 has a zero fiscal note, and that the department could
absorb cost associated with development of regulations, at this
time.
CHAIR TOBIN announced invited testimony for SB 18.
3:53:08 PM
MATTHEW WITTHOEFT, Principle, Begich Middle School, Anchorage,
Alaska, testified by invitation on SB 18. He expressed agreement
with Senator Wielechowski's comments and acknowledged the value
of cell phones for safety and communication, particularly when
students are away from parents, such as during travel. He noted,
however, that cell phones are a major impediment to learning and
shared personal and professional experiences illustrating the
challenges of managing device use among youth. He stated that
teachers at his school have repeatedly thanked him for relieving
them of that burden and credited early efforts and district-wide
policy language for building community and staff support.
MR. WITTHOEFT addressed concerns about blocked educational
websites, explaining that his one-to-one Chromebook school
allows IT filter adjustments when needed. He emphasized that
personal device use with unfiltered internet access and VPNs
presents far greater risks than the limited benefit of accessing
niche educational content. He concluded by referencing broader
issues such as teen mental health and school safety, stating
that restricting phone use has been one of the easiest and most
effective decisions he has made as a first-year principal.
3:56:24 PM
DORA WILSON, representing self, Anchorage, Alaska, testified by
invitation on SB 18 stating that she has lived, worked, and
raised her children in Alaska. She has served as a therapeutic
foster parent for 21 years, caring for over 50 youth. She also
serves on the Anchorage School Board and shared that on March 4,
the board unanimously passed a detailed policy on student
possession and use of electronic communication devices,
including cell phones. She credited Anchorage principals and
educators for initiating the policy, which aims to improve
academic outcomes and student mental health.
MS. WILSON expressed support for district-level flexibility in
implementing such policies, recognizing that needs vary across
Alaska. Drawing from her experience as a parent and foster
parent, she emphasized that electronic devices, particularly
social media, can be harmful to youth mental health if not
properly monitored. She described the development of a school-
day phone use policy as a positive step to support educators and
students and thanked Senator Wielechowski for his work
supporting education and youth in Alaska.
3:59:44 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN asked Mr. Witthoeft whether, before
implementing a ban on cell phone use, the school had a more
flexible policy that allowed teachers to enforce rules
individually, and if so, how effective that approach had been.
MR. WITTHOEFT replied that the school previously used a flexible
system where classrooms displayed signsred for no phone use and
green for allowed use. However, after the pandemic, the number
of students with phones increased significantly, and teachers
were frequently forced to address phone distractions. He noted
that larger class sizes compounded the issue. Inconsistent
enforcement among teachers led to student complaints about
varying rules. As a result, the administration determined a
schoolwide policy was necessary for consistency and
effectiveness.
4:02:04 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on SB 18.
4:02:28 PM
SALLY DONALDSON, School Counselor, Juneau, Alaska, testified in
support of SB 18 and said she has worked in schools for 20
years. She shared an experience from 12 years ago when she
witnessed a teacher returning a box of cell phones to students
following a statewide test, noting one student claimed three
phones. She used this to illustrate that cell phones have long
been a significant issue in schools. She supported restricting
cell phones in Alaska schools for several reasons: cell phones
cause distraction even when not in use; managing phones adds
unnecessary responsibility to teachers; and students interact
more meaningfully with each other when phones are absent. MS. D
concluded by urging the committee to consider moving the bill
forward.
4:05:27 PM
MOREAN HALL, representing self, Juneau, Alaska, testified in
support of SB 18. She said she is a retired school nurse from
Juneau and current assembly member. She highlighted bullying as
a major concern, noting that students now arrange fights during
school hours, record them, and post them online, creating
additional trauma and challenges for school staff and families.
She stated that students with medical needs or Individualized
Education Programs (IEPs) could be exempted through
accommodations, including Section 504 plans. On the use of
translation apps, she advised consulting English as a Second
Language teachers, noting that tools like Google Translate may
hinder language learning. She emphasized the growing importance
of focus in education, quoting author Cal Newport and warning
that many students reach college without having read a full
book. She urged support for SB 18, calling it a low-cost but
high-impact step, while recommending some flexibility for local
control.
4:07:41 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked whether Ms. Hall was speaking for herself or
an elected official.
MS. HALL replied she was representing herself.
4:08:11 PM
ALLISON CURRY, representing self, Juneau, Alaska, testified in
support of SB 18. She said she is a middle school teacher at
Ryan Middle School in Fairbanks and shared her perspective on
the impact of cell phones in schools, particularly with sixth
graders. She emphasized that her students, born around 2012,
have grown up in a world saturated with constant notifications,
filters, and cameras. She noted however, that all students may
not own a cell phone. She argued that public schools serve as a
great equalizer and should be a refuge from digital pressurea
place where students are free from surveillance, social media,
and distractions.
MS. CURRY highlighted the amount of instructional time lost to
managing devices and stressed the importance of creating a
school environment where students feel safe from being recorded
or exposed without consent. She recounted an incident involving
a nearby high school lockdown, where misinformation spread via
student cell phones caused chaos, leading to a flood of parents
surrounding the school and blocking access for emergency
services. She urged support for SB 18, stressing the powerful
impact such a policy could have in creating a safer, more
focused learning environment.
4:12:11 PM
CHAIR TOBIN closed public testimony on SB 18.
4:12:24 PM
CHAIR TOBIN held SB 18 in committee.
SB 6-ASIAN AMERICAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER PROGRAM
4:12:37 PM
CHAIR TOBIN announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 6 "An
Act requiring education in the history and contributions of
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders."
CHAIR TOBIN stated a committee substitute (CS) was distributed
to members of the committee.
4:13:00 PM
MICHAEL MASON, Staff, Senator Löki Tobin, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, introduced the summary of changes
for SB 6, version A to version N.:
[Original punctuation provided.]
SB 6: ASIAN AMERICAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER PROGRAM
Summary of Changes
Version A to Version N
Section 1- Version N amends 14.30.430(a)
Page 1, line 7: Delete "approved by the department".
This change removes the need for the department to
approve the curriculum, leaving it in the hands of
Alaska's capable school districts.
MR. MASON stated that Senator Gray-Jackson and her staff
collaborated with Legislative Legal to make a simple change to
SB 6 intended to alleviate fiscal concerns. He expressed hope
that the revision will result in a zero fiscal note and make the
bill more acceptable as it advances to the next committee.
4:14:03 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON thanked the committee for hearing SB 6 and
expressed appreciation to President Stevens for his suggestion.
She noted that she listened carefully to his suggestion and SB 6
should carry a zero fiscal note. She stated she was pleased with
the progress and hoped the bill would move to the Finance
Committee, reach the Senate floor for a vote, and then advance
to the House.
4:14:30 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited a motion.
4:14:32 PM
SENATOR STEVENS moved to adopt the committee substitute (CS) for
SB 6, work order 34-LS0071\N, as the working document.
4:14:46 PM
CHAIR TOBIN found no objection and CSSB 6 was adopted as the
working document.
4:14:57 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited the will of the committee.
4:15:02 PM
SENATOR STEVENS moved to report CSSB 6, work order 34-LS0071\N,
from committee with individual recommendations and attached
fiscal note(s).
4:15:18 PM
CHAIR TOBIN found no objection and CSSB 6(EDC) was reported from
the Senate Education Standing Committee.
4:15:35 PM
At ease.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
BOARD OF EDUCATION AND EARLY DEVELOPMENT
PROFESSIONAL TEACHING PRACTICES COMMISSION
4:17:27 PM
CHAIR TOBIN announced consideration of governor appointees Heidi
Barnes and Kimberly Bergey to the Professional Teaching
Practices Commission and Kimberly Bergey and Kathryn McCollum to
the Board of Education and Early Development.
4:18:13 PM
HEIDI BARNES, Appointee, Wasilla, Alaska, testified as the
governor's appointee to the Professional Teaching Practices
Commission. She stated that she is a kindergarten teacher in the
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District. She has been teaching
for about 10 years. She shared that she took time away from the
classroom to raise her son but later returned as a substitute
teacher, working across all grade levels and with students who
are blind. She emphasized her passion for teaching, highlighting
the direct positive impact she has on students and the
importance of fostering growth. She expressed a strong
commitment to high standards for both herself and other
educators and looked forward to the opportunity to serve on the
Professional Practices Commission.
4:19:48 PM
SENATOR STEVENS acknowledged that serving on the commission is a
difficult responsibility, as it involves decisions that may
revoke a person's ability to teach. He asked whether the nominee
is comfortable making such decisions if an educator is not
meeting high professional standards.
4:20:10 PM
MS. BARNES responded that the decision would not rest with her
alone but would involve group discussion and follow an
established process. She acknowledged the difficulty of such
decisions but emphasized the importance of thoughtful
collaboration. She noted that she had reviewed the procedures
and felt confident in the structure supporting those
determinations.
4:20:52 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked whether the current professional practice
standards are adequate. He questioned if the standards cover
everything necessary, if anything is missing, or if they are too
broad.
4:21:15 PM
MS. BARNES stated that she believes the current professional
practice standards are sufficient and cover a broad range of
necessary areas. She mentioned that she reviewed them briefly
and could not identify any gaps. She concluded that the
standards do a very good job overall.
4:21:44 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on the appointment of Ms.
Barnes; finding none, she closed public testimony.
4:22:01 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited a motion.
4:22:03 PM
SENATOR STEVENS stated that in accordance with AS 39.05.080, the
Senate Education Standing Committee reviewed the following and
recommends the appointments be forwarded to a joint session for
consideration:
Professional Teaching Practices Commission
Heidi Barnes - Wasilla
He reminded members that signing the report(s) regarding
appointments to boards and commissions in no way reflects
individual members' approval or disapproval of the appointees;
the nominations are merely forwarded to the full legislature for
confirmation or rejection.
4:22:27 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated the committee would forward the appointee's
name to a joint session of the legislature.
CHAIR TOBIN introduced Kimberly Bergey as the governor's
appointee to the Board of Education and Early Development.
4:23:02 PM
KIMBERLY BERGEY, Appointee, Board of Education and Early
Development, Palmer, Alaska, testified as the governor's
appointee to the Board of Education and Early Development.
stated that she is a product of Alaska's education system,
having completed her education from elementary through graduate
school in the state. She emphasized her first-hand experience as
both a student and a parent who has utilized nearly every
educational option available to ensure her children succeed. She
shared that service to the community has been a lifelong value,
modeled by her parents, and that she has consistently advocated
for children across various roles and industries. She noted her
extensive teaching experience across all age levels and
throughout urban, rural, and remote areas of Alaska,
highlighting her passion for doing what is right for Alaska's
children.
4:24:44 PM
SENATOR STEVENS asked whether there is a student representative
on the State Board of Education and Early Development.
4:24:51 PM
MS. BERGEY replied in the affirmative. She stated that the board
has an outgoing student advisor who is currently mentoring the
incoming student advisor.
4:25:05 PM
SENATOR STEVENS asked Ms. Bergey whether she is supportive of
the board having a student representative.
4:25:10 PM
MS. BERGEY replied that a student on State board is valuable and
is one way to stay connected to students.
4:25:20 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked for Ms. Bergey's view on the proper role of
the State Board of Education and Early Development, particularly
regarding its leadership and regulatory functions. He noted that
Alaska's Constitution strongly supports local control through
locally elected school boards but acknowledged that the
Legislature occasionally imposes directives on districts. He
asked how she balances the board's statewide responsibilities
with respect for local control when deciding how to vote.
4:26:07 PM
MS. BERGEY emphasized the importance of engaging in meaningful
conversations and ensuring that all stakeholder voices are heard
when making decisions on the State Board. She noted the value of
the board's diverse makeup and the regular feedback received
from local districts. She shared that her broad experience
across nearly every type of school in Alaska provides helpful
perspective when reviewing issues and preparing for votes. She
stressed the need for board members to stay connected to local
districts and, as an at-large member, she sees it as her
responsibility to represent voices from across the state,
recognizing Alaska's geographic and educational diversity.
4:27:35 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked whether there are areas or levels of
management that should remain under the authority of local
districts rather than the State Board of Education.
4:27:58 PM
MS. BERGEY affirmed the importance of local control as a
foundational part of Alaska's education system, as outlined in
state statute. She stated that the State Board does have an
obligation to recommend policy and offer suggestions and ideas.
She emphasized that part of the board's responsibility is to
ensure a statewide system that provides every child with access
to a quality education.
4:28:40 PM
CHAIR TOBIN asked Ms. Bergey to share her thoughts on the Open
Meetings Act, specifically regarding transparency in agenda-
setting, providing meaningful opportunities for public input,
and committing to follow the practices and policies outlined in
statute.
4:29:10 PM
MS. BERGEY stated that public participation is critical to the
success of the board's work and emphasized the importance of
following established policies. She underscored the need to
provide information to parents, school districts, and
stakeholders. She asserted that without including public input,
the board cannot adequately serve its mission.
CHAIR TOBIN stated that she strongly believes the Open Meetings
Act is essential to maintaining public trust. She emphasized
that the work of the board cannot be done without that trust and
expressed appreciation for the commitment to transparency.
4:29:49 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN asked what role the State Board of Education
should play in improving educational outcomes for K12 schools.
He also inquired about specific actions the board should take to
help drive those improvements.
4:30:13 PM
MS. BERGEY stated that a critical role of the State Board is to
analyze data to identify what is working and what is not, and to
ask questions when outcomes fall short. She noted that Alaska's
large geographic size can make it difficult to share successful
practices across districts. She emphasized the importance of
improving communication and suggested that the board serve as a
clearinghouse for best practices. She stated her belief that
this function is essential for advancing educational outcomes
statewide.
4:31:05 PM
SENATOR CRONK thanked Ms. Bergey for her experience and
willingness to serve on the board.
4:31:24 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on the appointment of Ms.
Bergey; finding none, she closed public testimony.
4:31:37 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited a motion.
4:31:41 PM
SENATOR STEVENS stated that in accordance with AS 39.05.080, the
Senate Education Standing Committee reviewed the following and
recommends the appointment be forwarded to a joint session for
consideration:
Board of Education and Early Development
Kimberly Bergey - Palmer
He reminded members that signing the report(s) regarding
appointments to boards and commissions in no way reflects
individual members' approval or disapproval of the appointees;
the nominations are merely forwarded to the full legislature for
confirmation or rejection.
4:32:04 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated the committee would forward the appointee's
name to a joint session of the legislature.
4:32:17 PM
CHAIR TOBIN introduced appointee Kathrine McCollum to the Board
of Education and Early Development.
4:32:35 PM
KATHRYN MCCOLLUM, Appointee, Board of Education and Early
Development, Wasilla, testified as the governor's appointee. She
shared that she had always wanted to be a teacher and began
organizing educational activities for neighborhood children at a
young age. She noted that, in her large extended family of 54
first cousins, college was not an expectation, and she was one
of the first to consider attending. Reflecting on this, she
became emotional recalling how she once discouraged others from
going to college, believing it was only necessary for becoming a
teacher. She expressed pride in pursuing her dream and in the
successes of her family members in trades and business.
MS. MCCOLLUM said she earned her degree in 1988 in Idaho, taught
first grade for a year, and moved to Alaska in 1989 with her
husband. She began teaching in Palmer and remained there,
working in the public school system until her retirement in
2020. Most of her career was spent teaching first grade, with
additional experience in fourth grade, seventh and eighth grade
math, and earth science. She was honored to mentor 12 student
teachers and several practicum students, which shaped her
understanding of what new teachers need.
MS. MCCOLLUM said she currently serves on the Matanuska-Susitna
(Mat-Su) School Board and clarified that she was speaking today
as an individual, not on behalf of the board.
4:34:53 PM
SENATOR STEVENS asked whether Ms. McCollum's term on the Mat-Su
School Board had ended, if she would need to resign, or if it
was possible to serve on both the local and State Board of
Education simultaneously.
MS. MCCOLLUM replied that she can serve on both boards since the
district board is an elected position with a different purview.
4:35:31 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked if the Mat-Su Borough had added party
affiliation to its elections and, if so, whether that change
applied only to the borough assembly or also to the school
board.
MS. MCCOLLUM stated the ordinance allowing a person to put their
party affiliation on the ballot was passed last fall; it is a
choice not a requirement.
4:36:12 PM
SENATOR KIEHL stated his belief that there is a statute that
prohibits serving on the State Board of Education and Early
Development, either while being a candidate or possibly while
holding a partisan position. He asked if that issue had been
reviewed.
4:36:35 PM
MS. MCCOLLUM said she had not heard of that statute but would
investigate the concern further.
4:36:56 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked for Ms. McCollum's perspective on the
appropriate boundaries between the authority of the State Board
of Education and local school boards. He requested her view on
where local control should end and where state involvement
should begin.
4:37:23 PM
MS. MCCOLLUM stated that she supports local control, which is
why Alaska operates through a system of school districts. She
explained that the State Board of Education functions as an
overarching body that works within the statutes established by
the Legislature and develops regulations to implement them. She
emphasized that at the district level, the work involves direct
engagement with parents and families to build community.
4:38:05 PM
CHAIR TOBIN noted a lack of breadth in experience and diversity
among current State Board of Education members. She asked what
Ms. McCollum could bring to the board to help ensure that all
students have a voice and are represented.
4:38:26 PM
MS. MCCOLLUM asked Chair Tobin to clarify her question.
4:38:37 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated that Alaska's education system exists to
serve students and must operate in partnership with families,
businesses, and communities that reflect the state's diversity.
She emphasized the importance of ensuring that everyone has a
voice in the process.
4:38:47 PM
MS. MCCOLLUM stated that representation on the State Board
should reflect communities across Alaska, and noted her
appointment to the Third Judicial District, a large region that
includes Dillingham, the Aleutians, and parts of the Kenai
Peninsula. She recognized the responsibility to listen to
feedback and actively reach out to those areas. She emphasized
the importance of improving communication from the board and
celebrating statewide educational successes. After attending her
first two board meetings, she expressed enthusiasm about new
initiatives, particularly teacher recruitment efforts such as
the "Green to Teach" program, which supports military members in
transitioning to education careers through a six-month
apprenticeship model.
CHAIR TOBIN expressed appreciation for Ms. McCollum's comments
and encouraged her, as a representative of the Dillingham area,
to visit Sleetmute, a community in need of an advocate.
MS. MCCOLLUM replied she would love that experience.
CHAIR TOBIN remarked she was uncertain if she would love it.
MS. MCCOLLUM replied that she would love it because she enjoys
other cultures and resolving issues.
CHAIR TOBIN said Sleetmute has some major issues.
MS. MCCOLLUM agreed.
4:40:37 PM
SENATOR STEVENS expressed admiration for Ms. McCollum's 26 years
of service as a first-grade teacher. He shared his own
experience spending half a day in a first-grade classroom and
noted how exhausting it was, even under the guidance of a
skilled teacher. He acknowledged the energy required for the
role and thanked her for her dedication to Alaska's students.
MS. MCCOLLUM commented that teaching first grade was what she
loved to teach and went back after retirement to teach for a
year following the COVID pandemic.
4:41:20 PM
SENATOR CRONK thanked [Ms. McCollum] for her willingness to
serve.
4:41:37 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on the appointment of Ms.
McCollum; finding none, she closed public testimony.
4:41:47 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited a motion.
4:41:48 PM
SENATOR STEVENS stated that in accordance with AS 39.05.080, the
Senate Education Standing Committee reviewed the following and
recommends the appointments be forwarded to a joint session for
consideration:
Board of Education and Early Development
Kathryn McCollum - Wasilla
He reminded members that signing the report(s) regarding
appointments to boards and commissions in no way reflects
individual members' approval or disapproval of the appointees;
the nominations are merely forwarded to the full legislature for
confirmation or rejection.
4:42:13 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated the committee would forward the appointee's
name to a joint session of the legislature.
4:42:24 PM
At ease.
4:43:06 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of Ms. Bergey to the Professional Teaching
Practices Commission.
4:43:28 PM
KIMBERLY BERGEY, Appointee, Professional Teaching Practices
Commission, Wasilla, Alaska, testified as the governor's
appointee. She said it is a great honor to serve and she wants
to give back to the profession that was kind to her.
4:43:48 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked whether any areas within the teaching
practice standards are either too restrictive or not restrictive
enough. He inquired whether there was a need for changes or
updates to the standards.
4:44:06 PM
MS. BERGEY replied that the current Professional Teaching
Practices Code of Ethics is relevant, applicable, and consistent
with standards in other states. She stated that she does not
believe changes are necessary at this time. However, she noted
that during her first term, the board has provided supplemental
guidance to districts, particularly concerning boundary-setting,
including the use of social media.
4:44:45 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on the appointment of Ms.
Bergey; finding none, she closed public testimony.
4:44:58 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited a motion.
4:45:00 PM
SENATOR STEVENS stated that in accordance with AS 39.05.080, the
Senate Education Standing Committee reviewed the following and
recommends the appointments be forwarded to a joint session for
consideration:
Professional Teaching Practices Commission
Kimberly Bergey - Palmer
He reminded members that signing the report(s) regarding
appointments to boards and commissions in no way reflects
individual members' approval or disapproval of the appointees;
the nominations are merely forwarded to the full legislature for
confirmation or rejection.
4:45:20 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated the committee would forward the appointee's
name to a joint session of the legislature.
4:46:22 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Tobin adjourned the Senate Education Standing Committee
meeting at 4:46 p.m.