Hope Is Action: Finding Your Path, Step by Step
Dear AAESP Members,
Advocacy isn’t just something we do—it’s at the heart of leading schools. This past month, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., for the National School Leaders Advocacy Conference (NSLAC), where the Alaska delegation met with Senator Murkowski, Senator Sullivan, and Congressman Begich to share the realities of education in our state. These conversations weren’t just about policies and funding—they were about our students, our staff, and the very future of our public schools.
Our message was clear: Alaska’s schools need strong, sustained investment. We advocated for:
✅ Title I and IDEA funding to support equitable education for all students.
✅ Title II funding to invest in school leadership and professional development.
✅ Mental health resources for students and staff.
✅ Stronger support for teacher and principal pipelines to address workforce shortages.
But our work doesn’t stop in D.C. Later this month, we’re heading to Juneau for the ACSA Legislative Fly-In. This is our chance to ensure state lawmakers hear directly from the principals and educators doing the work every day. If you’ve never participated in advocacy before, this is the time. Whether in person or from afar, your voice matters, and our collective message is stronger when more of us speak up.
We know the weight of budget cuts, political uncertainty, and the challenges that come with them. But what gives me hope is this community—principals who show up, advocate, and fight for what’s best for our students.
Thank you for all you do, and I look forward to continuing this work together.
With appreciation,
Lori Rucksdashel
AAESP President
Principal, Tebughna School
Position & School: Principal/ Teacher, Tebughna School, Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
School Website/Facebook page and link: https://kpbsd.org/schools/tebughna https://www.facebook.com/TebughnaSchool/about/?_rdr
Years served as an administrator: 4 years, but 16 years teaching at Tebughna School
Schools served as an administrator: 1 school- Tebughna School
Why did you decide to become an administrator?
I decided to become a principal as it was a natural step in my long standing commitment to education. I realized that along with my classroom impact, I wanted to make a transformative change of shaping school culture, fostering a love of learning, and ensuring that every student has the support they need to succeed.
What is your definition of a successful school?
A successful school is one you can feel an energy of joy when one steps through the door. It’s a place students feel safe, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential each and everyday!
Biggest struggle and how to fix:
I would say attendance/ chronic tardiness is one we’re continuing to approach strategically. We do our best to foster a positive school climate where students feel welcomed, supported, and excited to learn. We look to our community and peer support systems to help students feel connected to culture and school , and implement engaging morning meetings with callisthenic exercises, mindfulness, announcements and student share to encourage early arrival.
Biggest success achieved as an administrator so far:
Being a small K-12 school, we’re so proud of being a CITC Fab Lab recipient, and to be recognized as a Code.org- CS Leader Prize School!
Favorite quote:
“Data informs, but relationships transform. In education, it is the connections that matter most.” Dr. Brad Johnson
What advice would you give those entering the field of school administration?
Get to know your teachers, staff, students, and parents, and show genuine interest in their concerns, ideas, and goals. Definitely avoid making major changes too quickly; listen, assess, and then act before implementing new initiatives.
Last book you read? The Listening Leader by Shane Safir
Dear Alaska Principals,
With the many federal policy shifts happening under the current administration, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the uncertainty these changes may bring and reassure you that ACSA is actively monitoring developments to help ensure Alaska’s educators and students remain supported.
Federal policy adjustments—whether in funding, accountability measures, or program requirements—are not new. However, what remains constant for over 50 years is our commitment to advocating for students, districts, schools, families, and communities, ensuring that policies work in the best interest of educators and students in Alaska. We maintain regular communication with Alaska's congressional delegation, our national associations who are monitoring changes daily, the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development (DEED), policymakers, and stakeholders to make sure Alaska’s unique needs are understood.
As a principal, your role as a building leader is more critical than ever. You serve as the anchor of your school, guiding teachers, staff, and students through the evolving educational landscape. Your leadership not only ensures academic success but also fosters a safe environment where students can thrive. In times of change, your ability to provide stability, vision, and support is invaluable.
Beyond your school walls, your outreach to families and the broader community is essential. Schools are the heart of Alaska’s communities, and strong partnerships with parents, local organizations, and stakeholders enhance student success. Engaging with the community builds trust, promotes collaboration, and ensures that the voices of families and educators are heard when policies are being shaped at state and federal levels.
As we navigate these changes together, we will continue to provide you with timely updates, actionable insights, and advocacy opportunities to amplify your voices at the state and federal levels. Despite shifting policies, the fundamental mission of education—to support and empower all students—remains unchanged.
We encourage you to stay engaged, ask questions, and reach out with any concerns. ACSA is here to support you, and together, we will ensure that Alaska’s education system remains strong and responsive to the needs of our students, families, and communities.
I am looking forward to seeing many of you in Juneau for the ACSA Fly-In this weekend. If you have haven’t registered yet, there is still time. Click here to register.
Thank you for your dedication to education and for all that you do.
Be well,
Dr. Lisa S. Parady
ACSA Executive Director
2025-2026 Principal's Calendar
We are gearing up to finalize the next edition of the Principal's Calendar, and your voice is needed! Whether there was something you found in the calendar that you loved and want to ensure is in next year's version, something that needs to be changed or added, or you have an idea for a guest submission, we want to hear from YOU!
Please share your thoughts on anything related to the calendar by emailing Jen Rinaldi at JRinaldi@alaskaacsa.org. Our goal is to finalize next year's version of the calendar by late May and get it delivered to all members by mid-July so you have it to help plan your new school year!
Contact Us
Email: jrinaldi@alaskaacsa.org
Website: www.alaskaprincipal.org
Location: 234 Gold Street, Juneau, AK, USA
Phone: 907.242.9989
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akprincipals
