The bill proposes several amendments and additions to existing laws regarding public school enrollment, charter school authorization, and the establishment of an after-school literacy grant program in Alaska. It amends AS 14.03.080 to clarify that children of school age are entitled to attend public school without tuition, with specific provisions for enrollment applications to schools both within and outside their resident districts, subject to capacity limitations and lottery policies. Additionally, it introduces a new section that establishes a procedure for charter school applications to the state Board of Education, which must issue decisions within 45 days. The bill also mandates the Department of Education to adopt regulations for a new after-school literacy grant program aimed at providing funding for literacy tutoring services outside regular school hours.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for lump sum payments to certain teachers as retention and recruitment incentives, contingent upon appropriations for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2027, 2028, and 2029. Eligible full-time teachers in various school districts may receive payments ranging from $3,000 to $13,000 based on their district's classification, provided they meet specific employment criteria and application requirements. The Department of Education is tasked with administering these payments and may adopt necessary regulations to facilitate the program. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and support for both students and teachers in Alaska.

Statutes affected:
SB1001A, AM SB 1001, introduced 08/02/2025: 14.03.080, 14.14.110, 14.14.120, 14.17.600, 14.03.300, 14.03.255, 14.03.290, 14.07.020, 14.03.125, 47.12.990, 14.07.165, 14.33.120, 14.07.030, 14.03.123, 14.30.765, 14.30.770, 14.03.410, 14.03.420, 14.30.760, 14.30.800, 14.14.116, 14.07.170, 14.03.250, 14.03.253