This bill establishes a framework for demonstration state-tribal education compacts in Alaska, allowing the commissioner of education and early development to enter into agreements with participating tribes. The compacts will have a five-year term and must include provisions related to roles and responsibilities, compliance requirements, recordkeeping, dispute resolution, and a limited waiver of tribal sovereign immunity. The bill also mandates that these compact schools operate according to the terms of their agreements while being exempt from most state statutes and regulations applicable to school districts, except those specified in the bill. Additionally, it outlines the requirements for teacher certification and employment, funding mechanisms, and reporting obligations for participating tribes.

The legislation emphasizes the need for a reevaluation of the demonstration state-tribal education compacts after seven years and includes provisions for the physical facilities of the schools to meet public safety standards. It allows for state funding to be appropriated as if the compact schools were regional educational attendance areas and requires the Department of Education and Early Development to report on the performance of these schools to the legislature. The bill will be effective immediately and includes a sunset provision, repealing the relevant sections by July 1, 2036.

Statutes affected:
HB0059A, AM HB 59, introduced 01/22/2025: 14.03.016, 14.03.050, 14.03.072, 14.03.083, 14.03.090, 14.03.127, 14.03.135, 14.03.140, 14.09.010, 14.09.030, 14.14.050, 14.14.110, 14.33.010, 14.33.250, 14.17.500, 14.17.910, 14.14.105, 14.14.107, 14.20.010, 14.20.040, 14.20.095, 14.20.215, 23.40.070, 23.40.260, 14.30.180, 14.30.350, 14.30.355, 14.30.356, 14.30.360, 14.30.370, 14.30.400, 14.20.020, 14.20.022, 14.20.023, 14.20.025, 14.25.220, 14.25.590, 14.60.010, 14.17.600, 14.03.120, 14.03.078