Galena Superintendent Refutes Anti-School-Choice Claims Made by Mat-Su Counterpart

In a sharp rebuke challenging the accuracy of claims made against Alaska’s correspondence school programs, Galena City School District Superintendent Jason Johnson has publicly countered what he described as “misinformation” presented by Mat-Su Borough School District Superintendent Randy Trani.

The dispute emerged after Trani delivered a presentation at a February 4, 2026, Mat-Su school board meeting regarding the impact of statewide correspondence schools on local enrollment figures. Johnson’s response came in a strongly worded letter sent to families enrolled in the Interior Distance Education of Alaska (IDEA) program on February 9.

“Normally, I would ignore such obvious misinformation, as it would be humorous if not for the fact that he is using these falsehoods to advocate for major changes to State policy,” Johnson wrote, referring to Trani’s presentation.

According to Johnson, the Mat-Su superintendent’s presentation contained numerous factual errors about IDEA and the Galena City School District, which Johnson methodically addressed in his three-page letter. The Galena superintendent expressed particular concern that these inaccuracies were being used to advocate for restricting educational choice options for Alaska families.

The correspondence school conflict highlights growing tensions in Alaska’s educational landscape, where statewide correspondence programs have become increasingly popular alternatives to traditional brick-and-mortar schools. These programs, which offer families greater flexibility and customization in their children’s education, have seen enrollment surges in recent years, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

IDEA, operated by the Galena City School District, has become one of the state’s largest correspondence programs, serving thousands of Alaskan students. The program provides families with educational allotments, resources, and support while allowing for home-based instruction tailored to individual student needs.

Johnson’s letter specifically refuted claims regarding funding allocations, operational practices, and the program’s impact on traditional public schools. He emphasized that IDEA adheres to all state regulations and provides valuable educational alternatives that many Alaskan families prefer.

“The families who choose IDEA do so because they believe it is the best option for their children,” Johnson stated in his letter. “That is the essence of school choice—families having options and selecting what works best for their unique circumstances.”

The dispute underscores broader debates occurring across Alaska about education funding, school choice policies, and how districts can best serve diverse student populations. As enrollment patterns shift, districts like Mat-Su may face budget challenges when students opt for alternative programs like IDEA.

Education policy experts note that such tensions between traditional districts and correspondence programs are not unique to Alaska but reflect nationwide conversations about educational innovation, parental choice, and resource allocation.

State education officials have yet to publicly comment on the disagreement between the two superintendents. However, the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development has previously acknowledged the importance of maintaining diverse educational options while ensuring equitable funding mechanisms.

For families enrolled in correspondence programs, the public disagreement raises concerns about potential policy changes that might affect their educational choices. Parent advocacy groups have already begun mobilizing to defend the current system that allows for these alternative educational models.

The Mat-Su Borough School District, Alaska’s second-largest district serving the Matanuska-Susitna Valley north of Anchorage, has experienced enrollment fluctuations in recent years. Trani, who became superintendent in 2023, has been vocal about addressing what he sees as challenges to the district’s stability and funding.

As this dispute continues to unfold, education stakeholders across Alaska are watching closely to see whether it might trigger broader policy discussions in the state legislature or prompt regulatory review by education authorities.

Johnson concluded his letter by reaffirming IDEA’s commitment to educational excellence and family choice: “We will continue to serve Alaskan families with integrity and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, regardless of misleading narratives.”