Legislature(2023 - 2024)BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
03/20/2024 03:30 PM Senate EDUCATION
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s) | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE EDUCATION STANDING COMMITTEE
March 20, 2024
3:30 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Löki Tobin, Chair
Senator Gary Stevens, Vice Chair
Senator Jesse Bjorkman
Senator Jesse Kiehl
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
MEMBERS ABSENT
All members present
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
University of Alaska Board of Regents
Seth Church - Fairbanks
Stephen Colligan - Wasilla
- CONFIRMATIONS ADVANCED
Board of Education and Early Development
Pamela Dupras - Anchorage
Barbara Tyndall - Fairbanks
- CONFIRMATIONS ADVANCED
Professional Teaching Practices Commission
Michael Robbins - Ketchikan
- CONFIRMATION ADVANCED
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
No previous action to record
WITNESS REGISTER
SETH CHURCH, Appointee
University of Alaska Board of Regents
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
University of Alaska Board of Regents.
STEPHEN COLLIGAN, Appointee
University of Alaska Board of Regents
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
University of Alaska Board of Regents.
PAMELA DUPRAS, Appointee
Board of Education and Early Development
Department of Education and Early Development (DEED)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Board of Education and Early Development.
BARBARA TYNDALL, Appointee
Board of Education and Early Development
Department of Education and Early Development (DEED)
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Board of Education and Early Development.
MICHAEL ROBBINS, Appointee
Professional Teaching Practices Commission
Department of Education and Early Development (DEED
Ketchikan, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Professional Teaching Practices Commission.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:30:58 PM
CHAIR LÖKI TOBIN called the Senate Education Standing Committee
meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. Present at the call to order were
Senators Stevens, Gray-Jackson, Kiehl, and Chair Tobin. Senator
Bjorkman joined thereafter.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S)
UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA BOARD OF REGENTS
3:33:28 PM
CHAIR TOBIN announced the consideration of the governor's
appointees Seth Church and Stephen Colligan to the University of
Alaska Board of Regents.
3:33:48 PM
SETH CHURCH, Appointee, University of Alaska Board of Regents,
Fairbanks, Alaska, provided a brief overview of his personal and
professional background, emphasizing his expertise in project
management, particularly in deferred maintenance and new
construction throughout his career. He expressed his belief in
the mission of the university and its staff and leadership. He
voiced support for the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)
becoming an R1 research institution, the University of Alaska
Anchorage (UAA) focusing on workforce development, and the
University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) having a first-class marine
biology program. He expressed his desire to serve on the board.
3:36:27 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON asked Mr. Church about his thoughts on
diversity and the role of diversity at the university. She asked
how, as a regent, he would uphold and support the mission
statement of the university to honor the Indigenous and diverse
peoples of Alaska.
MR. CHURCH replied that the board recently voted in favor of the
Troth Yeddha' project, noting that the university has received
significant investment from community partners. He mentioned
that UAF is fully embracing the project. He stated his agreement
with the board's policy of open enrollment, which welcomes
everyone, and expressed his full support for the board's
mission.
3:37:46 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON sked Mr. Church, as a general contractor,
what he has learned about the university's deferred maintenance
backlog. She also inquired if he believes the legislature
adequately funds deferred maintenance.
MR. CHURCH replied that he has toured the university's three
major campuses over the past several months and shared several
key observations. He noted that the University of Alaska
Anchorage (UAA) has boilers so old that parts are no longer
available, and other old boilers are cannibalized to keep them
running, though they are kept in excellent condition. He
commended the passion of the custodians and maintenance crews
but emphasized that UAA urgently needs funding for boilers and
deferred maintenance. At the University of Alaska Fairbanks
(UAF), he observed a new math and science building but found one
lab resembling a "third world country" with 1950s cabinetry,
giving the impression that the university doesn't care about it.
He expressed disappointment in that situation. Meanwhile, at the
University of Alaska Southeast (UAS), he saw a new building that
was first class, delivered on budget and on time. He stated that
while the state has invested in the university, the $2 billion
deferred maintenance backlog requires more attention. He
clarified that this was his opinion, not necessarily that of the
board.
3:40:04 PM
SENATOR STEVENS said an issue he has had with the university for
years is teacher education and training. He noted that every
year, more teachers leave the state than graduate from the
university. He asked what the university can do to ensure the
state grows its own teachers and how to encourage more Alaskan
students to enter the teaching profession.
MR. CHURCH opined that better dorms could help attract students
and having approval of the $20 million, 3-year funding plan for
UAF to be a premier research university. He did not speak
specifically to teacher retention but would investigate and get
back to the committee.
SENATOR STEVENS asked that board members look for ways to
recruit Alaskans to become teachers. He noted that teaching is a
great career, especially for kids in rural Alaska, but the state
is not successfully attracting them. He suggested finding ways
to provide scholarships to increase the number of locally grown
teachers.
3:42:03 PM
MR. CHURCH stated that his maternal grandfather came to Alaska
and worked at a school outside of Anchorage for many years.
3:42:17 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked about his vision for the University of
Alaska Southeast (UAS) and its role within the university system
and for the state.
MR. CHURCH replied that UAS is the premier liberal arts and
marine biology university in the region, describing it as a
world-class and beautiful institution. He shared that a student
from Massachusetts searched for the top marine biology school
and found UAS. He expressed optimism about UAS's continued
development under its new chancellor from Palmer and stated that
he would love to learn from locals about their vision for the
university.
3:44:35 PM
CHAIR TOBIN said she listened to Mr. Church's confirmation
appointment and appreciated his comments about including
educator and student voices. However, she wanted to focus on
questions regarding diversity of thought, perception, and
perspective. After reviewing his resume and personal background,
she asked how he would ensure that all of Alaska's universities
maintain rigorous liberal arts programs, particularly in light
of the growing understanding of justice, history, oppression,
critical race theory, and tribal critical race theory. She asked
how he plans to ensure that student voices and perspectives, as
well as diverse theories, are included and elevated in academic
curricula, and how he would incorporate these perspectives into
his own body of knowledge and background.
MR. CHURCH replied that it starts with having an open mind,
something he personally strives to maintain. He stated that both
the board and the university aim to be inviting. He then asked
if, from her perspective, there are ways the board and
university can improve in this regard.
CHAIR TOBIN replied that she is currently a student at UAF and
is impressed with her professors, particularly their ability to
challenge her worldview and perspectives. She expressed a desire
to protect those professors so they can continue fostering such
academic growth. She emphasized the importance of appointing
individuals to the Board of Regents who will not use their
position to silence educators or create barriers that prevent
students from pursuing rigorous academic exploration and truth.
MR. CHURCH thanked her for her comment.
3:47:35 PM
CHAIR TOBIN thanked him for his willingness to serve and
announced the next appointee.
3:48:08 PM
STEPHEN COLLIGAN, Appointee, University of Alaska Board of
Regents, Wasilla, Alaska, gave a brief overview of his personal
and career history, mentioning his frequent visits to rural
Alaska, where he engages in STEM education and outreach. He
shared that one of the questions he asks students and teachers
is, "What is the most important thing your teacher teaches you?"
The answers vary, but he believes teachers teach students how to
learn. He emphasized that lifelong learning is essential, and a
person does not need a PhD to pass along skills, mentor, or
inspire confidence in others. In the fields of teaching and
engineering, he highlighted the importance of staying current
with new certifications, technologies, and evolving fields such
as artificial intelligence (AI). He pointed out that machine
learning has been used in surveying and mapping for years, but
managing the "soft" side of AI, like social media and
identifying deep fakes, is also a critical skill. He opined that
the university would play a key role in both using and teaching
the responsibilities of technology use and misuse.
3:53:34 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN joined the meeting.
3:53:35 PM
MR. COLLIGAN reflected on his own time at UAF 40 years ago and
noted the positive changes in student support. He expressed his
excitement about the PhD program in language studies and growth
in engineering and unmanned systems. He advocated for the
university to develop strong capabilities in specific areas and
to specialize, given limited resources. He recommended
partnering with the Department of Defense who is a client of the
university. He emphasized that each university campus has a
different focus on workforce development.
3:58:10 PM
MR. COLLIGAN highlighted UAS's unique opportunity to have
outstanding programs in mariculture and marine biology.
Regarding teacher recruitment, he acknowledged there is no
simple solution but suggested that professionals could obtain
teaching certificates. On the issue of deferred maintenance, he
remarked that the university, like many organizations, faces
this challenge. He commended university leadership for creating
a modest plan to address aging infrastructure and noted that
sometimes rebuilding is more cost-effective than repair. He
recommended pursuing achievable goals with maintainable systems
rather than asking for overly ambitious projects. Finally, he
mentioned that the university should not be in the apartment
rental business but should explore public-private partnerships
to build resources without making large financial requests to
the legislature. He suggested that long-term public/private
partnerships could help attract students to the University of
Alaska system and excite people about its potential across all
campuses.
4:01:59 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON asked for his thoughts on diversity and how
he, as a regent, would uphold the university's mission to honor
the indigenous and diverse peoples of Alaska.
MR. COLLIGAN stated that there are three key areas of focus:
First, the university is and should remain an asset to the
Alaska community. He emphasized that not every campus is the
same and expressed hope that each would be driven by the
workforce development and economic needs of its respective
community. He opined that education provides a foundational
opportunity for personal improvement, whether one pursues a
four-year degree, a trade, or a professional career. He
highlighted the potential of the Troth Yeddha' campus to help
individuals from rural Alaska succeed, not only by offering
language and teaching certificates but also by building
confidence and leadership skills for governing boards and
community leadership across the state. He stressed that while
everyone should be treated equally, each campus has unique
focuses and workforce development needs.
4:04:52 PM
MR. COLLIGAN expressed excitement about learning how different
university locations provide value and integrate into their
communities, whether by improving teacher training through short
courses or other efforts. Regarding diversity, he noted that at
least 25 percent of UAF students are from rural Alaska Native
communities, and there are systems in place for students to
assemble, express concerns, and have them addressed. He stated
his openness to listening and hearing concerns, without getting
caught up in unnecessary drama, micromanaging, or overstepping
his bounds as a leader. He emphasized that while the university
has diversity programs in place, fostering a long-term culture
of treating people equally, fairly, and with enthusiasm for
learning is key to improving opportunities for Alaskans.
4:07:17 PM
SENATOR STEVENS noted that universities are unique structures,
with faculty playing a significant role in governance through
the faculty senate, which directs the university and works
closely with the Board of Regents. He asked how Mr. Colligan
would work with the faculty, particularly since PhDs are
essential for a respected university, especially in becoming a
research institution. He requested Mr. Colligan to elaborate on
his working relationship with professional faculty.
4:08:09 PM
MR. COLLIGAN acknowledged that he had overlooked one of the
university's primary goalsachieving R1 statusand emphasized
what that would mean for the entire northern region. He noted
that while UAF is currently an R2 university, placing it in the
top 8 percent, achieving R1 status would provide additional
opportunities for research and other benefits to Alaska and
northern countries.
4:08:16 PM
MR. COLLIGAN shared that he began his career before certain
technologies, like GIS, were taught at universities and had even
helped develop them. He said his company employs individuals
with Master's and PhDs, emphasizing the importance of having
knowledge specialists leading the way. He stated that he values
advanced degrees, recognizing their critical role in both the
community and the long-term viability of the university, but
noted that this is just one focus, albeit the highest priority.
MR. COLLIGAN pointed out that part of achieving R1 status
involves graduating a certain number of PhDs. Once that goal is
reached, the level of funding and research dollars coming into
the state could increase tenfold.
4:10:09 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated that she has a liberal arts degree in
sociology and pointed out that the University of Alaska is the
only public university without a sociology program, which she
believes is a travesty. She emphasized that liberal arts foster
innovation and produce individuals committed to human service,
including thought leaders, non-profit specialists, and
legislators. She noted that his comments were heavily focused on
science and technology and asked how he plans to seek out or
accept perspectives different from his own. She inquired about
his ethos regarding engaging with alternative viewpoints.
MR. COLLIGAN apologized for focusing too much on science and
technology, acknowledging the importance of a well-rounded
education. He emphasized that all university degrees and
programs, including those in the sciences, require knowledge of
"softer" sciences like history and language. He pointed out that
most innovators possess this broader knowledge and keep an open
mind to foster new ideas. He stated that without understanding
history, one is blind to the future and noted that soft sciences
are just as important, if not more so, when it comes to
leadership. While it's great to be focused on science, he said,
true innovation comes from having a broad and open-minded
perspective.
4:12:21 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on the confirmation of Mr.
Church and Mr. Colligan; finding none, she closed public
testimony.
4:12:40 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:
University of Alaska Board of Regents
Seth Church - Fairbanks
Stephen Colligan - 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.
4:13:05 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated the names would be forwarded to a joint
session of the Alaska State Legislature.
4:13:14 PM
At ease
CONFIRMATION HEARINGS
BOARD OF EDUCATION and EARLY DEVELOPMENT
4:15:10 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of the governor's appointees Pamela Dupras and
Barbara Tyndall to the Board of Education and Early Development.
4:15:42 PM
PAMELA DUPRAS, Appointee, Board of Education and Early
Development, Department of Education and Early Development
(DEED), Anchorage, Alaska, gave a brief overview of her
personal, education, and work history. She stated she has taught
for 22 years in a variety of locations in Alaska.
4:17:00 PM
SENATOR STEVENS asked about the State School Board's
responsibility for Mt. Edgecumbe and how it differs from its
responsibilities for other school districts.
MS. DUPRAS said that, as a new board member, her understanding
is that the State School Board listens to reports and stays
informed about decisions made at Mt. Edgecumbe. She noted that
the key difference is that Mt. Edgecumbe is a residential school
serving students from across the entire state, unlike other
school districts.
SENATOR STEVENS commented that Mt. Edgecumbe is a remarkable
school, noting that many Native leaders have graduated from it.
He expressed his gladness upon hearing that she attended the
school.
4:17:57 PM
CHAIR TOBIN asked for her ethos and perspective on the
relationship between the State Board of Education, local school
boards, parents, and students.
4:18:21 PM
MS. DUPRAS stated that the responsibility of the State Board of
Education is to listen carefully to all parties involved,
including local school boards, parents, and students, and to
consider their viewpoints before making decisions. She
emphasized that decisions are not made by one person but by a
group, making it important for state board members to be mindful
of what constituents want and their opinions. She noted that the
board reviews a lot of public input to ensure it considers how
its actions impact all students and reflects their needs.
CHAIR TOBIN asked what she sees as the relationship between the
State Board of Education and the legislature.
4:19:39 PM
MS. DUPRAS replied that she is still learning but noted that one
of the more exciting developments from the state has been its
focus on the state of reading in Alaska. She is aware of several
other bills related to education. She views the legislature as
the governing body responsible for creating the rules that hold
the State Board of Education accountable in its work.
4:20:16 PM
CHAIR TOBIN thanked Ms. Dupras for her willingness to serve and
announced the next appointee.
4:20:38 PM
BARBARA TYNDALL, Appointee, Board of Education and Early
Development, Department of Education and Early Development
(DEED), Fairbanks, Alaska, provided a brief overview of her
personal and work history, highlighting her teaching experience
and understanding that children are not "cookie cutters" of each
other, even within the same family. She shared how she first
learned about multi-sensory teaching and the importance of
recognizing that children learn differently and face unique
challenges. As a member of the State Board of Education, she
attended a Career and Technical Education (CTE) conference in
Anchorage, where she saw educators excited about making
education relevant in the classroom. She expressed her
enthusiasm for expanding youth career tracks across the state,
such as those she observed in Bethel and Barrow, which focus on
practical skills like construction, welding, technology,
farming, and business.
4:24:21 PM
MS. TYNDALL noted that districts are seeing success, including
increased graduation rates, and mentioned that charter schools
and homeschooling are thriving in Alaska. She added that the
Reads Program is starting to show positive results. While
acknowledging that education is in transition, she is optimistic
about the future and emphasized the need for continued
adjustments and adaptations to move education forward.
4:25:43 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON referenced the board's annual report to the
legislature, which mentioned the education clause in the Alaska
Constitution art. VII, sec. 1, which states, in part, "Schools
and institutions so established shall be free from sectarian
control. No money shall be paid from public funds for the direct
benefit of any religious or other private educational
institution." She asked if Ms. Tyndall agreed with the education
clause in the constitution.
MS. TYNDALL replied that education is for every child, meeting
them where they are. She acknowledged that public schools are
secular and accepts that. She noted that all five of her
children graduated from public high schools, as did she from a
public high school in Valdez. She concluded by saying she agrees
with the education clause for now.
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON reiterated Ms. Tyndall's clarifying remark
"for now."
MS. TYNDALL added that if changes were made in the future, she
would probably agree.
4:27:08 PM
CHAIR TOBIN said she was curious to hear Ms. Ty's thoughts on
the relationship between the State Board of Education and the
legislature. She asked if Ms. Ty believes the State Board has
the authority to enact regulations without an authorizing
statute.
MS. TYNDALL said that, she is fairly new on the board and
believes that the board should follow the rule of law. She
mentioned that she has not spoken to legislature regarding the
board and would only do so if she knew it was appropriate. She
added that she would make sure to understand the proper process
before engaging with the legislature.
4:28:07 PM
CHAIR TOBIN asked Ms. Ty for clarification on what she meant by
"speaking to the legislature."
MS. TYNDALL replied that she would never speak on behalf of the
board, as she believes there are designated individuals for that
role.
CHAIR TOBIN asked what she believes her specific role is as a
board member in listening to public input, and how she balances
her personal beliefs with public comment and testimony.
MS. TYNDALL replied that it is extremely important to listen to
all sides and emphasized that she would spend time doing so. She
stated that the school board should represent all people and
viewpoints. She noted that public testimony is heard, and notes
are taken. Having attended about four meetings so far, she
reiterated the importance of this process.
CHAIR TOBIN stated that those four meetings have had significant
public testimony in opposition to board actions, and she
expressed curiosity about how all perspectives are balanced. She
mentioned that it seems like minority input is elevated among
the public.
4:29:41 PM
SENATOR KIEHL stated that those four meetings have had
significant public testimony in opposition to board actions, and
she expressed curiosity about how all perspectives are balanced.
She mentioned that it seems like minority input is elevated
among the public and sought clarification on how that is
handled.
MS. TYNDALL admitted that she did not fully understand the
board's governance when she was first appointed. She mentioned
that there is a large manual she is working through to learn
more. She explained that, for the most part, the board listens
to everyone. She then sought clarification, asking if he was
suggesting that the board had been overriding legislation, as
she wasn't sure what the specific issue was.
4:30:56 PM
SENATOR KIEHL expressed interest in her understanding of the
structure of the State Board of Education, noting that this
understanding is important for legislators to assess whether her
appointment is appropriate. He mentioned that, prior to joining
the board, she had forwarded resolutions to legislators
regarding the appropriate roles for the Department of Education
and Early Development. He recalled one resolution stating that
the department didn't have the authority to place mental health
counselors in schools. He pointed out that statutes exist that
license school psychologists and address mental health in
schools. He asked her to share her understanding of how
statutory authority relates to the department's authority.
4:32:07 PM
MS. TYNDALL said that this concern about the resolution also
came up in the House, which occurred several years before
serving on the board. She mentioned that her understanding of
the board's authority is evolving, and her concern at the time
likely stemmed from people around her who were worried about
parental notification. She explained that decisions like school
closures, such as those being discussed in Fairbanks, come from
the superintendent, and are decided by the local school board,
acknowledging that different authorities exist at different
levels.
MS. TYNDALL stated that she doesn't see the state school board
overriding a local school board and suggested that her previous
concern may have been due to ignorance between local and state
authority. She clarified that she does not recall ever referring
to the state school board specifically and apologized for her
past misunderstanding. She emphasized that she is now getting up
to speed on what the state board can and cannot do and is
focused on listening to everyone to gain a balanced view of the
education system.
4:33:46 PM
SENATOR KIEHL compared the constitution to the foundation of a
building, with the legislature passing laws like load-bearing
walls, and regulations existing to implement and clarify the
statutes. He asked if it was her understanding that the board
can create requirements or regulations when there are no laws
providing a clear pathway.
4:34:37 PM
MS. TYNDALL replied no. She stated that it is her understanding
that regulations are meant to implement the law. She reiterated
that, while she is new to the board, she has learned a lot and
has enjoyed being part of it.
4:35:12 PM
CHAIR TOBIN mentioned the closing of schools and other issues
due to a lack of funding. She asked Ms. Tyndall what she
believes her role is as a board member in ensuring that schools
receive the resources needed to provide high-quality education
to every child in the public school system.
MS. TYNDALL replied that is definitely within the board's
purview. She mentioned that she is very aware of what is
happening in her district, and, in a perfect world, more funding
is needed. However, she is uncertain whether current legislation
will address the issues. She described a visit to a local
elementary school, noting low morale but also positive
initiatives like the Reads program. She observed that due to a
teacher's absence and the lack of substitute teachers,
classrooms had to be combined, highlighting that schools do not
have what they need. She emphasized that it is the board's
responsibility to address this.
4:38:00 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on the confirmations of Ms.
Dupras and Ms. Tyndall; finding none, she closed public
testimony.
4:38:20 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
Pamela Dupras - Anchorage
Barbara Tyndall - Fairbanks
SENATOR STEVENS 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.
4:38:43 PM
CHAIR TOBIN stated the names would be forwarded to a joint
session of the Alaska State Legislature.
4:38:51 PM
SENATOR KIEHL commented that while all appointees are forwarded
by right, he has serious concerns. He explained that in the last
year, the State Board of Education and Early Development acted
on an issue that legislators had attempted to address through
statute, as a statutory change was necessary to achieve their
goal. However, those bills did not pass, and the law didn't end
up reflecting what was intended. He expressed concern that the
state board manipulated regulations beyond their statutory
authority to effectively create new statewide law.
SENATOR KIEHL emphasized his deep concerns about board members
who voted in favor of that action, especially those who have
previously commented on the legal authority of departments. He
concluded by stating that he will further address these concerns
during the joint session.
4:40:05 PM
CHAIR TOBIN said she shares those concerns and encouraged the
public to share their insights through public testimony. Those
serving on the board have a responsibility to fight for every
child to be loved.
4:40:25 PM
At ease
CONFIRMATION HEARINGS
PROFESSIONAL TEACHING PRACTICES COMMISSION
4:41:42 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of the governor's appointee Michael Robbins to the
Professional Teaching Practices Commission.
4:42:09 PM
MICHAEL ROBBINS, Appointee, Professional Teaching Practices
Commission, Department of Education and Early Development (DEED,
Ketchikan, Alaska, provided a brief work history and stated that
he has worked for thirty years in education, including twenty
years in administration. He emphasized that he brings
experience, compassion, and a commitment to improving Alaska's
education system. His diverse teaching experience across Alaska
has given him a comprehensive understanding of the educational
landscape.
4:43:19 PM
MR. ROBBINS expressed his belief in the fundamental importance
of student-centered decision-making, noting that every decision
in education should serve the best interests of students and
guide them toward success in both academics and personal growth.
Building strong relationships with students, staff, and the
community is central to his approach, as he believes fostering a
sense of belonging and trust is essential for creating an
environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
MR. ROBBINS expressed his commitment to advancing educational
goals as a member of the commission. He is confident that
positive changes can be made to have a lasting impact on
students' lives and looks forward to working collaboratively
toward a shared vision of educational excellence.
4:44:50 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN said he agreed with Mr. Robbins' statements. He
noted that much of the work of the Professional Teaching
Practices Commission (PTPC) involves disciplinary action for
educators and deciding whether they should remain licensed.
Often, the commission mirrors or reinforces the disciplinary
decisions made by school districts. He asked Mr. Robbins to
describe two or three scenarios in which he and the commission
might take a different approach from a school district in
evaluating an incident and the actions taken or not taken.
4:45:54 PM
MR. ROBBINS replied that he has only participated in one meeting
as part of the commission so far. He explained that each case
brought before the commission is evaluated by reviewing the
investigation conducted by the school district, any new
information that may have emerged, and the evidence presented to
the commission. He emphasized that every case is nuanced,
requiring careful consideration of the facts, the actions taken
at the local level, and whether the disciplinary actions were
appropriate or if further action by the commission is necessary.
He concluded by stating that the process involves looking at all
the available information, having a thorough discussion, and
then determining the next steps while considering the actions
already taken at the local level.
4:47:14 PM
SENATOR STEVENS asked if, during his time as a superintendent,
he has ever had to forward a disciplinary action to the
Professional Teaching Practices Commission (PTPC.
MR. ROBBINS replied no.
SENATOR STEVENS commented that it doesn't happen often, and it
is very serious to take away someone's license. He noted that it
does happen occasionally.
MR. ROBBINS replied yes, unfortunately it happens occasionally.
4:47:57 PM
SENATOR KIEHL mentioned that continuing education requirements
for teachers also fall under the commission's responsibilities.
He asked Mr. Robbins for his opinion on whether current
requirements are appropriate.
MR. ROBBINS replied that in New York State, once a teacher
becomes permanently certified, they are not required to complete
any continuing education credits. He expressed his belief that
continuing education in Alaska is incredibly important. He
compared it to the medical field, noting that patients wouldn't
want to visit a doctor who hadn't kept up with medical
advancements for twenty years. Similarly, educators need to
continuously improve, and ongoing educational development plays
a key role in enhancing student learning and achievement. He
emphasized that all school staff, including teachers,
paraprofessionals, and administrators, should engage in
continuing education to improve their craft.
4:49:45 PM
CHAIR TOBIN opened public testimony on the confirmation of Mr.
Robbins; finding none, she closed public testimony.
4:50:06 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
Michael Robbins - Ketchikan
SENTATOR STEVENS 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.
4:50:30 PM
CHAIR TOBIN said the name would be forwarded to a joint session
of the Alaska State Legislature.
4:50:58 PM
At ease
4:51:15 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting.
4:51:29 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Tobin adjourned the Senate Education Standing Committee
meeting at 4:51 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Seth Church Regents - Resume Redacted.pdf |
SEDC 3/20/2024 3:30:00 PM |
University of Alaska |
| Steve Colligan Regents - Resume Redacted.pdf |
SEDC 3/20/2024 3:30:00 PM |
University of Alaska |
| Barbara Tyndall BEED Application_Redacted.pdf |
SEDC 3/20/2024 3:30:00 PM |
Board of Education and Early Development |
| Barbara Tyndall Resume BEED_Redacted.pdf |
SEDC 3/20/2024 3:30:00 PM |
Board of Education and Early Development |
| Pamela Dupras BEED Resume_Redacted.pdf |
SEDC 3/20/2024 3:30:00 PM |
Board of Education and Early Development |
| Pamela Dupras BEED Application_Redacted.pdf |
SEDC 3/20/2024 3:30:00 PM |
Board of Education and Early Development |
| Michael Robbins Professional Teaching Resume_Redacted.pdf |
SEDC 3/20/2024 3:30:00 PM |
Professional Teaching Practices Commission |