Dear Lake Otis Elementary Families,

I am writing to share an important and difficult update about Lake Otis Elementary, and I want to do so with clarity and care.

This week, the Anchorage School Board directed ASD’s administration to revisit elements of the Rightsizing ASD project using updated data and districtwide considerations. Following that review, the District will again bring forward a recommendation to close Lake Otis Elementary at the end of this school year. 

I recognize how difficult it is to revisit this conversation. I know this likely brings a mix of confusion, frustration, and concern. 

Last fall, the Anchorage School Board voted not to close Lake Otis. Many families understandably believed the uncertainty was behind them. There was relief. Students settled into routines. Staff began planning ahead with a greater sense of stability. Reopening this conversation can feel disorienting for a school community.

If you are asking why this is being reconsidered, that is a fair and honest question.

Through Resolution #25-26-01(S.1), the Board directed ASD’s administration to reexamine previously studied consolidation proposals and identify any additional options that address enrollment, facility utilization, academic programming, transportation considerations, equity implications, and long-term financial sustainability. 

In short, the Board asked the District to conduct another review, using the most current information available. After completing that review, this is the recommendation now before the Board. If approved, the proposal includes offering the Lake Otis building to Rilke Schule German Immersion School for relocation.

Please hear this clearly: this recommendation is not about the value of Lake Otis. This is a strong and deeply committed school community. The dedication of your educators, staff, and families has never been in question.

ASD continues to face long-term financial pressures driven by enrollment declines and rising operational costs. Maintaining underutilized facilities spreads resources more thinly across staffing, programming, and building operations. In some cases, consolidating school communities allows the District to better stabilize services, protect academic offerings, and maintain consistent student supports. 

Independent audits continue to confirm the District’s financial compliance, transparency, and responsible stewardship of public funds. The deficit ASD faces reflects structural funding and cost challenges. While context explains why these discussions continue, it does not lessen the emotional weight of this moment. 

That explanation does not remove the emotional weight of this moment. It simply explains why we are here again.

A Note About the Bond

The Lake Otis facility remains in the proposed April 2026 school bond for renovation.

If the Anchorage School Board does not approve the closure recommendation, Lake Otis students will remain in the building and the bond project would proceed as planned.

If the Board approves the closure, the facility would continue to serve students through the relocation of Rilke Schule German Immersion School, and the bond project would support the long-term sustainability of the building for its future occupants. 

If the Board Approves This Recommendation

This recommendation differs from the proposal considered last fall.

If the Anchorage School Board votes to move forward with closure, Lake Otis students would transition for the 2026–27 school year as follows:

• 35 students who live north of Tudor Road would move to Rogers Park Elementary
• 162 students who live south of Tudor Road would move to Tudor Elementary
• Three Life Skills classrooms would move to Russian Jack Elementary
• One Life Skills classroom would move to Airport Heights Elementary

These placements were identified based on updated enrollment data, available capacity in receiving schools, proximity to neighborhoods, and the ability to support strong academic programming and student services.

We recognize that transitions bring questions and concern. If approved, our immediate focus will be supporting every Lake Otis student and staff member through a careful and structured transition. Families will receive detailed information regarding school assignments, transportation eligibility, timelines, orientation opportunities, and ways for students to become familiar with their new school communities. Our priority is that every child continues to feel known, supported, and safe, and that academic continuity is preserved. 

What Happens Next

The School Board will review this recommendation on Tuesday, February 17, beginning with a work session at 3 p.m. and a regular meeting at 6 p.m. The Board is scheduled to vote on Tuesday, Feb. 24. Families may provide public testimony on February 17th and submit written feedback prior to the February 24th meeting. Your voice and perspective are important.

Please know this above all: this recommendation is centered on sustaining stable, high-quality learning environments and academic opportunities for students in the years ahead. It is not a reflection of the dedication of Lake Otis educators, or the strength of its school community. Lake Otis has served children well, and that legacy matters to ASD.

Thank you for your continued engagement, your patience, and the care you show your children each day.

With sincerity and respect,

Jharrett Bryantt, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Anchorage School District