Calling All Alaska Educators!
DEED is recruiting for four virtual events where Alaska educators can be involved in the assessment item development process for AK STAR, the Alaska Science Assessment, or both! If you have a strong understanding of Alaska’s current academic standards and currently live in Alaska, we’d love to have you participate! All reviews will be held during off contract hours. Complete the assessment interest form if you’d like to participate in any of these virtual events. Only completed applications will be considered.
Assessment Data Reviews
Alaska educators will review and provide feedback on test item data from the spring 2024 administrations. This review will assist DEED and our vendors in building operational assessments for future administrations. Participants will receive $100-$150 stipend for full participation.
- AK STAR Data Review: Wednesday, July 10 – 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Science Data Review: Tuesday, September 24 – 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Assessment Item Reviews
Alaska educators will evaluate and provide feedback on new AK STAR test items, verify alignment to Alaska’s standards and review for bias and sensitivity. Participants receive a $250 stipend for full participation.
- AK STAR Item Review: Friday, August 23 – 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm and Saturday, August 24 – 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Science Item Review: Friday, September 27 – 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm and Saturday, September 28 7 – 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Apply Now for the 2024/2025 School Year at Mt. Edgecumbe High School (MEHS)
Application period closes June 15, 2024
Mt. Edgecumbe High School is now taking applications for the 2024/2025 school year! Families who are interested in having their student experience the unique educational journey at Mt. Edgecumbe High School (MEHS), where they not only celebrate the diverse cultural backgrounds of their students, but also foster a strong sense of belonging within a close-knit school community. As a public residential boarding school, MEHS is dedicated to providing a challenging and unparalleled education while nurturing a vibrant community spirit. Interested students can apply now by visiting www.mehs.us!
 From left to right: Colony High School Principal Kristy Johnson, DEED Commissioner Deena Bishop, 2025 Alaska Teacher of the Year Kelly Rentz, Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District Superintendent Randy Trani.
DEED Announces Alaska
Teacher of the Year for 2025
The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) has announced that Kelly Rentz, of Colony High School in Palmer, has been named the 2025 Alaska Teacher of the Year.
During the open nomination period, Kelly received nominations from students who are thrilled to be in her classes. Her dedication to her students and school community was evident in the evaluation process and has been apparent throughout her career.
Her professional summary states, “Compassionate teaching professional, creating a culture of respect, integrity, and excellence through education in the fine arts. Community leader inspiring others to make good art for great causes.”
“Congratulations to Ms. Rentz for this great accomplishment,” said Governor Mike Dunleavy. “Great teachers motivate their students and create a learning environment students look forward to coming to. It’s clear that Ms. Rentz’s students look forward to learning from her.”
“Kelly's dedication to educational excellence serves as an inspiration to our students, staff, and community," DEED Commissioner Deena Bishop said. "There is no higher praise than to be nominated by your students, and it is with great pride that we honor her as the 2025 Alaska Teacher of the Year.”
Learn More Here
 2024 Renew America’s Schools Prize
NOW OPEN: Schools have a great opportunity to partner with other districts for the 2024 Renew America's Schools Prize which provides grant funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at public K-12 schools to lower energy costs and improve indoor air quality.
The 2024 Renew America’s Schools Prize implements a prize-to-cooperative-agreement funding model to streamline the application process, expedite the award process, and provide winners earlier with more targeted support. Like the 2022 Renew America’s Schools grant, the 2024 Renew America’s Schools Prize will fund energy-efficient and clean energy infrastructure improvements at school districts across America. Apply for your Alaskan school today!
For More Information: https://www.herox.com/renewschoolsprize/timeline
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NWEA SoR for Leaders: Summer Intensive Course
There will be a summer opportunity for the NWEA Science of Reading for Leaders Course.
Summer is a great time for Alaska Leaders to take this course that meets Alaska Reads Act Educator Qualification requirements.
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