A unique school district on the Kenai Peninsula caters to fly-in villages, Russian Old Believers, and road-system residents

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District in Alaska is a unique educational system that serves a diverse range of students in various communities. With 42 schools spread across a vast area, the district faces financial challenges and struggles with staff recruitment and retention.

Superintendent Clayton Holland describes the district as one of the most unique in the country, serving students in schools with populations ranging from 16 to 600. Some schools are located in Alaska Native villages only accessible by plane or boat, while others cater to specific populations like Russian Old Believers.

Financial constraints have led to budget cuts, impacting teachers, support staff, and extracurricular activities. The district is also dealing with maintenance issues, with some schools in need of new buildings after years of deferred maintenance.

Despite these challenges, the district has a graduation rate of about 80%, slightly higher than the statewide average. Superintendent Holland emphasizes the district’s commitment to educating every single student, regardless of background or location.

As the district continues to navigate financial and staffing challenges, it remains dedicated to providing quality education to all students in its diverse communities. The series will explore the different aspects of education within the district, showcasing the unique and varied experiences of students and staff.