First Quarterly Report Highlights Early Progress of Alaska’s Office of Education Advocacy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2025

Juneau, Alaska - Today the Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) presented the first quarterly standing report of the Office of Education Advocacy (OEA) to the State Board of Education and Early Development. The report shows early progress in connecting families, educators, and communities with the information and support they need to navigate Alaska's education system.

The Office of Education Advocacy was established in alignment with Governor Mike Dunleavy's education priorities, which focus on empowering families and students with educational options, targeting investments for improved educational results, and ensuring educational rights and safeguards. The OEA brings these priorities to life by serving as a central point of contact for parents, students, teachers, community members, and elected officials who have questions or concerns about public education in Alaska.

Governor Mike Dunleavy stated that the new office represents his administration's ongoing commitment to empower all education stakeholders. "Now more than ever we need to focus on improving outcomes for all students," said Governor Dunleavy. "DEED's work through the Office of Education Advocacy will give parents, students and educators access to resources and knowledge that empowers them to make more informed choices and will lead to a brighter future for young Alaskans. The status quo in public education is no longer acceptable. The OEA is a great resource for those with the shared goal of an excellent education for every student."

In its first months of operation, the Office of Education Advocacy has concentrated on connecting with schools, families, and community members to understand their needs. Paul Reid, who serves as Project Coordinator, has led early efforts to create a public information portal, build communication with superintendents, and provide assistance on individual questions referred to the office. With nearly three decades in Alaska's education system, including his work as both a teacher and principal in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, Reid brings both perspective and familiarity with the issues facing educators and families statewide.

Commissioner Deena Bishop shared that the office is already helping to strengthen connections between schools, families, and the Department. "The Office of Education Advocacy demonstrates what it means to lead with accountability and transparency. It ensures that the Department is listening, responding, and supporting families, educators, and communities in ways that strengthen Alaska's schools. Our work will always stay focused on increasing student outcomes and ensuring that every learner in Alaska has the opportunity to succeed," said Commissioner Bishop.

The Office of Education Advocacy will continue to expand outreach and resources for educational stakeholders across Alaska. For more information, visit education.alaska.gov/advocacy or contact the Office of Education Advocacy at (907) 465-2800. Paul Reid, Project Coordinator for the Office of Education Advocacy, can also be reached by email at [email protected] for questions or assistance.

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The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development provides information, resources, and leadership to support over 130,000 students in 505 public schools across the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to ensure an "Excellent Education for Every Student Every Day."

Media Contact: Bryan Zadalis, Public Information Officer - (907) 465-2800