52 Alaska districts join safety consortium using federal grant model

Hydaburg City School District is inviting leaders from 52 Alaska school districts and community safety providers to a working symposium focused on improving school and community safety statewide.

The symposium, announced in the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development Information Exchange newsletter dated May 13, 2026, follows the model of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022 Stronger Connections grant program. That project was tested on Prince of Wales Island and uses eight evidence-based steps to improve the safety and well-being of schools and communities statewide.

Every participant leaves with a completed, customized School Safety Handbook for their district. The working symposium format lets leaders develop district-specific safety plans while learning from the shared model.

Hydaburg City School District is advocating for the consortium of 52 school districts and community safety providers.

The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022 provided federal funding for school safety and mental health programs. The Stronger Connections grant program within that act supports evidence-based strategies to improve school climate and safety.

The customized School Safety Handbook that each participant receives is tailored to their specific district and completed during the symposium. Leaders return to their communities with an actionable safety plan.

The Stronger Connections grant program model emphasizes community partnerships and evidence-based practices. The Alaska consortium is adapting that federal model to the specific needs of Alaska schools and communities.