ASD Moves Forward with Plan to Use Empty Classrooms for Childcare in Anchorage Schools

Anchorage Schools Face Declining Enrollment

Anchorage, Alaska (KTUU) — A drop in student enrollment has left several Anchorage School District (ASD) campuses with unused classroom space. District officials have confirmed that some of these rooms will soon be transformed into childcare centers.

Details from ASD Leadership

ASD Chief Operating Officer Jim Anderson explained that the district’s goal is to make better use of available facilities while supporting community needs. Anderson stated:

"We have space sitting open, and we have families who need childcare. This gives us a chance to serve both needs at once."

He added that the district has been evaluating the idea for several months, exploring how to maintain a balance between educational requirements and community partnerships.

Implementation and Partnerships

Initially, ASD plans to introduce childcare programs at a handful of schools where classroom vacancies are highest. The district will work with licensed childcare providers to ensure the programs meet state standards for safety and staff qualifications.

Officials emphasize that these childcare services will operate independently of regular K–12 academic programming but remain within the same buildings to maximize efficiency.

Community Response and Next Steps

Some parents have expressed cautious optimism, welcoming the convenience of on-site childcare. Others have raised questions about security, facility use, and potential impacts on future classroom availability should enrollment rebound.

The district intends to monitor results closely and may expand the initiative if it proves both sustainable and beneficial to families.

"Our focus remains on supporting families and improving the use of district resources," Anderson concluded.

Author’s Summary

Anchorage School District will repurpose vacant classrooms into licensed childcare spaces, aiming to help families while efficiently using underused facilities.

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Alaska's News Source Alaska's News Source — 2025-11-25

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