District News

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

FNSBSD invites all K–12 students to unleash their creativity, honor our nation's history, and imagine its future through visual art and original written essays.

The deadline to submit an application for the establishment of a charter school in the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, to begin operation at the start of the 27-28 school year, is October 1st, 2026.

We’re less than a week away from Turning Priorities into Progress, and we hope you’ll join us for an evening of conversation about our schools and the priorities guiding our work.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District and the Fairbanks Education Association (FEA) have reached a tentative one-year collective bargaining agreement for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Our employees are at the heart of what we do. Investing in our people includes creating pathways for talented people to join and grow within our district, and providing opportunities for employees to learn, collaborate, and continue developing throughout their careers.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District and the Education Support Staff Association (ESSA) are pleased to announce that they have tentatively reached a one-year collective bargaining agreement for 2026-27 fiscal year. This joint effort reflects a shared commitment to supporting school district employees, prioritizing school operations, and maintaining financial and organizational stability.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been highlighting the four pillars of our 2025-2030 Strategic Plan and the work happening across the district to move these priorities forward. This week, we’re highlighting Pillar 3: Partnering with Our Community.

We want to provide staff with an update on negotiations with the Education Support Staff Association (ESSA) and Fairbanks Education Association (FEA).

On Wednesday, September 23, the school district will send TEST emergency messages via email, text message, and automated phone call.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The Fairbanks District Attorney’s Office, Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, Alaska State Troopers, and Division of Juvenile Justice have developed a new Threat Assessment and Management Protocol, creating a coordinated community framework for identifying, assessing, and responding to potential threats of violence involving students.

Last school year marked Year 1 of our 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, and as we move into Year 2, we’re continuing to build on that work.

Across the district, our schools are coming back to life. Teachers and staff are preparing classrooms, welcoming new colleagues, and getting ready for students to walk through our doors.

It's time for back to school prep! The first day of school for majority of students is Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

Additional clarification on the district's FEA compensation proposal, including annual step increases, TRS-eligible one-time payments, and a focus on long-term financial sustainability.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is participating in the Summer Food Service Program starting Monday, June 1, 2026.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

Families, enroll your incoming kindergarteners for the 2026-27 school year by May 13, 2026, and be eligible to WIN a backpack filled with school supplies for your little one!

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) is excited to announce Secondary Showcase: North Star Futures, an upcoming event designed to help students in grades 8-11, including those not enrolled in FNSBSD schools, explore pathways, plan for high school success, and prepare for life after graduation.

A summary of district and FEA initial proposals, highlighting major differences in salary increases, health care approaches, and overall cost impacts.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Emily Jacobsen has been selected as the interim principal of Lathrop High School, effective for the 2026–27 school year.  

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

Students and families are invited to attend Secondary Showcase: North Star Futures, an evening dedicated to helping students explore opportunities, plan for success in high school, and prepare for life after graduation.

I am pleased to share that the School Board has approved the recommended budget for the 2026-27 school year, and I want to take a moment to speak to you personally about what this means for our district.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that April Scott has been selected as the permanent principal of Tanana Middle School, effective the 2026–27 school year.  

Watch the administration's report on the FY27 Recommended Budget to the school board at their regular meeting, reconvened on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

Watch the administration's report on the FY27 Recommended Budget to the school board at their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Watch the administration's presentation of the FY27 Recommended Budget to the school board on Monday, March 16, 2026.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

Watch the administration's presentation of the FY27 Recommended Budget to the school board on Monday, March 2, 2026.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District has selected Genevieve Chacho as the permanent principal of Barnette Magnet School, effective the 2026–27 school year.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Brian Schaffer has been selected as the permanent principal of Ryan Middle School, effective the 2026–27 school year.  

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

Watch the administration's report on the FY27 Proposed Budget to the school board at their regular meeting on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

Watch the administration's presentation of the FY27 Proposed Budget to the school board on Monday, February 2, 2026.

After years of careful financial decisions, the District is entering FY27 on stronger footing. The proposed budget invests in students by reducing class sizes across all grade levels, adding 30 teaching positions, restoring key programs like elementary instrumental music, and expanding learning supports districtwide.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District’s Out-of-Attendance Area (OAA) application window is now open for the upcoming 2026-27 school year.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The ASAA All-State Music Festival is an audition-based honors music festival. Selected students from around the state of Alaska work with conductors at the top of their field in large ensembles of band, orchestra, mixed choir, or treble choir to showcase their talent.

By Superintendent Dr. Meinert - Recently, I participated in the Commonwealth North superintendent panel, and one of the main challenges I highlighted was the district’s declining enrollment. Many people assume this decline is happening because more students are switching to homeschool programs — the data tells another story.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) School Board has been selected as the 2025 Outstanding School Board of the Year award by the Association of Alaska School Boards (AASB). This recognition honors the Board’s work and leadership during the 2024–25 school year.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is proud to announce record breaking high school graduation rates for the second consecutive year. Graduation rates have increased across multiple schools, with especially strong gains at Lathrop High School and among Alaska Native and Special Education students.

Join us for our Family Learning Adventure: Math & Reading Rally! Saturday, November 1, from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Hunter Elementary. FREE childcare provided for ages 3+ during the event with snacks, games, and activities!

Our district-level Special Education administration team is visiting schools on specific dates, and we invite you to come share your thoughts and connect with them in person!

The Alaska Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP) is proud to announce that the Alaska Principal of the Year for 2026 is Heather Johnson, principal of Tanana Middle School in Fairbanks, Alaska. 

The school district is forming two Supporting Access and Choice Advisory Teams, one for Elementary (grades K-5) and one for Secondary (grades 6-12), to help guide implementation of this important strategic plan pillar.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The deadline to submit an application for the establishment of a charter school in the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, to begin operation at the start of the 26-27 school year, is October 1st, 2025.

On Wednesday, September 24, the school district will send TEST emergency messages via email, text message, and automated phone call.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

We're excited to announce the student winners of our new phone policy poster contest!

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

There’s something special about the start of a new school year - the renewed sense of possibility that fills our classrooms and hallways. As we welcome students and staff back for the 2025–2026 school year, I want to share both our excitement for what lies ahead and our pride in the progress we’ve made together.

It's time for back to school prep! The first day of school for majority of students is Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

We’re looking for bold, eye-catching student-designed posters that show what the new policy is all about - and why it matters. Whether you draw, paint, or design digitally, this is your chance to make an impact at your school.

On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the Fairbanks North Star Borough Board of Education officially adopted the Approved Budget for the 2025–26 school year. This budget reflects the district’s commitment to its vision of empowering every student to take ownership of their learning, choices, and future.

As the school year draws to a close, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to you - our families - for the trust, encouragement, and partnership you’ve provided all year long. Your support has been essential in making this an incredibly successful year for our students and schools.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

Today, the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) awarded the 2026 Teacher of the Year to NEA-Alaska and Fairbanks Education Association member Pete Daley.  

Families, enroll your incoming kindergarteners for the 2025-26 school year by May 9, 2025, and be eligible to WIN a backpack filled with school supplies for your little one!

The draft 2026-27 academic calendar is now available for your review and feedback!

We want to inform you about important adjustments to school start and end times that will take effect in the 2025-26 school year. These changes are part of our ongoing efforts to improve transportation efficiency and minimize bussing delays for students.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is proud to announce that nine schools have earned the designation as a Purple Star School.

The School Board has approved a revised 2025-26 academic calendar with several updates related to professional development and inclement weather planning.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Allison Wylde has been selected as the Principal of Arctic Light Elementary School starting the 2025-26 school year.    

In an effort of appreciation and community collaboration, six local businesses have come together to support and acknowledge the dedication of all Fairbanks school district employees. With this donation, over 1700 district employees will receive a collection of gift cards and local vouchers.

Parents and students from Pearl Creek, Midnight Sun, and Two Rivers Elementary Schools are invited to Family Support Nights hosted at their schools.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

After careful consideration of the survey results and the values expressed by our families and staff, the district will move forward with Option 2: Balanced Approach for school boundary changes

FNSBSD Elementary Native Youth Olympic (NYO) Games, this weekend!

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

Need inspiration for spring break? Check out this guide and enjoy the break with these fun community activities!

With the recent decision to close three schools, the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District must update school attendance areas to reflect these changes. We are considering two redistricting options and would like your input to help guide the final decision.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Zina Robinson has been selected as the permanent Principal of North Pole High School starting the 2025-26 school year. 

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Eston Jennings has been selected as the permanent Principal of North Pole Elementary School beginning with the 2025-26 school year.  

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is partnering with the Association of Alaska School Boards to conduct the School Climate and Connectedness Survey©, a statewide survey taken by students, staff, and families. This survey measures their perceptions of each school’s climate including the engagement of students, staff, and families.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The Fairbank North Star Borough School Board has finalized its decision on school consolidation, approving the closure of the following schools at the end of the current school year:

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Liesl Wietgrefe has been selected as the permanent Principal of Randy Smith Middle School starting the 2025-26 school year. 

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Joseph Self has been selected as the permanent Principal of North Pole Middle School for the 2025-2026 school year. 

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

After months of review and community input, the district administration has created a school consolidation plan that will be presented to the school board in January.

Thank you for your valuable feedback on the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District's (FNSBSD) mission, vision, values, and pillars. Your input has played a vital role in simplifying language and clarifying our purpose to better reflect the needs of our community.

Now, we need your insights once again!

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

Superintendent Dr. Meinert highlights the upcoming School Consolidation Process in this video.

School consolidation is a challenging and emotional topic for any community, and the process of closing schools and adjusting school boundaries has a significant impact on students, families, staff, and the larger community. Beginning in January, the school board will carefully review a school consolidation plan recommended by district administration, with a final decision expected in February.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is pleased to announce that Ticasuk Brown Elementary School has been named a National ESEA (Elementary and Secondary Education Act) Distinguished School by the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development. This distinction marks Ticasuk Brown as one out of 100 schools across the nation being recognized for their academic excellence.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) has been selected to participate in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) 2024-25 Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools (Energy CLASS) program.

Over the past several months, the district has engaged in multiple community engagement events to seek input from the Fairbanks community in order to help create the new district strategic plan. A steering team made up of students, staff, parents, and community members has carefully reviewed the community engagement data and crafted the district's new strategic direction based upon the community's feedback. 

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is excited to announce an upcoming event aimed at empowering families with essential tools and strategies to support their children’s reading and math development. The Family Learning Adventure: Math & Reading Rally will be an engaging and interactive event designed specifically for families with children in PreK through 3rd grade. 

As our school district reaches the end of the first quarter of the academic year, I’ve been reflecting on the challenges and successes we’ve experienced. I also want to contribute to the ongoing conversation about funding and school district accountability.

Join us for a Family Learning Adventure: Reading & Math Rally for Pre-K to 3rd Grade Families! Saturday, November 2, from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Anne Wien Elementary.

We invite you to celebrate the rich cultures and histories of Indigenous Peoples throughout Alaska. 

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The UAF School of Education is offering a one-credit course open to all FNSBSD support staff, substitutes, high school seniors/juniors, and community members. There are limited seats available for this class.

The district will be hosting an "Up4Grabs" event with surplus books and school supplies available at no cost.  

The State of Alaska has released the spring 2024 results for the AK STAR and Alaska Science Assessments.

The annual school district surplus auction is this Saturday, September 7!

Live auction at the FNSBSD Central Warehouse, 1300 Minnie St, starting at 11 a.m.

In a surprise announcement during a staff meeting at West Valley High School, Prevention Intervention Specialist, and Education Support Staff Association member Fanta Lee-Sankoh was named the 2025 NEA-Alaska Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year. This is the highest award for classified public employees in Alaska. 

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) has launched ParentSquare—a simple and unified school-to-home communication platform—to reach and engage every parent, helping ensure all parents have the opportunity to actively participate in their children’s education. ParentSquare is now available for staff and parents to use on their computers or mobile devices.

It's time for back to school prep! The first day of school for majority of students is Thursday, August 15, 2024.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) Board of Education (Board), in its commitment to providing an excellent and equitable education for all students, unanimously approved a policy change on Tuesday, June 4, to include an appointment of an advisory board member from the Fairbanks Native Association (FNA). The FNA member shall provide input and advise the School Board on all matters that come before the Board, including sharing their unique perspective on how matters under consideration might affect the Alaska Native community and all district students.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is participating in the Summer Food Service Program starting Monday, June 3, 2024. Meals will be provided to all children, 18 years and younger, without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service.

North Star News–a monthly newsletter provided to keep families and staff informed and engaged with their district.