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Greetings from the Kenai Peninsula! I'm starting my second year of teaching k-5th Special Education at Kaleidoscope Charter School of Arts and Science in Kenai.

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I am the current Superintendent of Hydaburg City School District. This is my 4th year in Alaska.

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Hello, my name is Sara Grande. I am in my 8th year of teaching in Texas, and I'm hoping to switch my certification and move up to Anchorage in the next year!

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Hello, my name is Michele. I am in my 21st year of teaching and my second year in Alaska and teach students who are visually impaired. I am from Michigan and travel back a forth during the school year. I look forward to learning more about Alaska.

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Hello, my name is Luz; it's Spanish for "light." I am from Bisbee, Arizona. I was born and raised there. It is a small city in the Southeastern corner of Arizona, on the border with Mexico. I have been married to my 2nd husband for just about 9 years. I am the mother of three children in their twenties. And I am happy to say that I am now a grandmother of three beautiful granddaughters. I am going into my 16th year as a teacher. However, this will be my third year here in Alaska.

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Hello, my name is Lexie Houston. I'm from Aniak. We are a sub hub for our region and Bethel is our hub. About 500 people live here and we have an amazing community and school! I am in my third year of teaching. I started with 4th/5th grade and moved to K/1 last year. I'm looking forward to learning more about the history of Alaska.

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Hello! My name is Maureen Murphy and I am a K-12 special education teacher in Toksook Bay, Alaska! I am super excited about this school year.

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Hi! I am Kryzzia Camille Hautala. I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to Alaska two years ago. I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Special Education in the Philippines.

This will be my third year as an Early Learning Special Education teacher in Alaska. I started my teaching journey here at Midnight Sun Elementary, and this year will be my second year teaching at Anne Wien Elementary.

Moving from the Philippines to Alaska has been a big adventure. Alaska is very different from where I grew up, especially the weather, but I have learned to appreciate its beautiful scenery, unique seasons, and welcoming community. I am grateful to call Alaska home and to be part of a wonderful school community where I get to support and learn alongside our youngest learners and their families.

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Hello! I'm going into my 3rd year teaching in Alaska, 21 years overall. I came to AK from Missouri and I am so glad I did. I teach Social Studies in southwest Alaska at Chief Ivan Blunka School.

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My name is Bernice Espedido, and I am an international teacher from the Philippines. I am proud to bring with me the Filipino values of resilience, dedication, respect, and compassion in both my personal and professional life.

I have a strong passion for education and believe that every student has the potential to succeed when they are encouraged, supported, and inspired. As a teacher, I strive to create a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where students feel confident to ask questions, express themselves, and develop both academically and personally.

Teaching in an international setting is an exciting opportunity for me to share my knowledge while learning from different cultures and perspectives. I value diversity and enjoy building meaningful relationships with students, colleagues, and families from various backgrounds.

I am committed to continuous learning and professional growth, and I look forward to contributing my skills, enthusiasm, and dedication to your school community. Thank you for welcoming me, and I am excited to be part of this wonderful journey.

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Hi everyone! I'm Dawn and I have been teaching for 18 years. I was born and raised in Northeast Arkansas. I received a BSE and MSE from Arkansas State University. My husband and I have two daughters, two dogs, and a corn snake. We moved to Alaska two years ago and currently live in Matsu Valley. Alaska is beautiful and I love getting out and enjoying the scenery and nature. My favorite outdoor activities are hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

My time as an educator has been spent in elementary. I have taught grades 1-4. Fourth grade has been my favorite to teach. I am teaching fourth grade again this year and am lucky enough to have a view of the mountains from my classroom window.

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Hello everyone,

My name is Kenneth B. Love Sr., though most people call me Kenny. I grew up in Woodbury, New Jersey, and I'm a proud graduate of Temple University and Howard University, where I studied Early Childhood Education and Educational Administration.

Over the course of my career, I've had the privilege of teaching and leading schools in Maryland, Washington, D.C., Hawaii, Georgia, and now Alaska. Each place has shaped me as an educator and reinforced my belief that every community has its own strengths, traditions, and stories that deserve to be honored in our schools.

I am currently beginning my third year as the Principal of Rocky Mountain School in Goodnews Bay. It has truly been one of the greatest blessings of my career. Every day I continue to learn from this beautiful Yup'ik community while working alongside our students, families, Elders, and staff to build a school where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.

Outside of education, I have a deep passion for agriculture, gardening, beekeeping, and herbal medicine. I believe these interests naturally connect to place-based education, stewardship of the land, and helping students understand the relationship between healthy communities, healthy ecosystems, and lifelong learning.

I enrolled in Alaska Alive because I want to continue deepening my understanding of Alaska's history, cultures, and traditions. My hope is to become a better educational leader by learning from the people and communities I have the privilege to serve. I look forward to learning alongside each of you and sharing in this journey together.

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Hi there!

I am Shelou. It's my second year as a Special Education Teacher in Yupiit School District this coming school year and so far I'm loving the culture and the people here. I am also learning a lot about life itself. My experience teaching here has been interesting in a very good way. As a Filipino, I grew up with a close-knit culture which I am also experiencing right here. That makes me feel that I made the right decision of moving. Now, I want to learn more and experience more. I am also looking forward to share my culture as well and show that we are the same though we are oceans apart.

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Hello! My name is Angela Banks. I grew up and raised my family in Iowa. My husband and I have 6 adult children (his, mine, and ours) and 9 grandchildren. I have two very spoiled cats, Gypsy and Pandora. I was a special education teacher for 17 years before becoming a school psychologist. I completed 1 year in Iowa and then spent the past 2 years in Anchorage. Alaska is an amazing place, and I can not get enough of it. However, I moved back to Iowa to be closer to family and will be a hybrid (50/50) school psychologist as soon as I can complete these required courses and apply for my regular license. I love the variety of culture and history that Alaska has and am excited to learn more about Alaska!

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Hello, my name is Kim and I grew up in Washington State and went to University of Washington where I majored in Psychology and obtained my Master's in Occupational Therapy in 2007. I came to Fairbanks to work at the hospital here after that, and then within a year or so I met my husband. We are raising our four kids here in Fairbanks. I now spend some of my career time working in school districts as an OT. I am taking this course to fulfill my Alaska Studies requirement to continue providing Occupational Therapy services in Alaska schools.

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Hello! My name is Marinel Cabiling and I am originally from the Philippines. This is my fourth year teaching in Alaska, where I teach middle and high school students in a rural village.

Teaching here has been challenging but also very rewarding. I have learned so much from my students, their families, and the community, especially about Alaska Native culture, traditions, and ways of knowing.

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Hi! I am from a small town in Maine, but I currently live in Massachusetts. I am a speech language pathologist working with Alaska school districts online. I work for a small company called TeleTalk Therapy. I am excited to continue my education and learn more about Alaska.

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Hi! My name is Brittney. I am originally from Colorado, but more recently, Washington and Montana. I have lived in Alaska for almost 1 year and will hopefully be here many more!

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Hello Everyone!

I am newish to Alaska, we have almost been here a year. My husband is in the Air Force but he will retire at the end of this assignment so we are hoping this is home!

I have been teaching for 12 years and this year I will be an instructional coach. I am excited to keep learning.

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Hello,

I came from Philippines. I am grateful to serve Boreal Sun Charter School here in Fairbanks. I am a special education teacher and it is my third year in our school. I look forward to learn more about Alaskan culture.

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I came to Alaska from Florida, but I lived in various places in the US and spent most of my teaching career working internationally. Right now I teach 7-12 math, but I have also taught at the elementary level and high school social studies, art, science, and English. I live in St Mary's.

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Hi! I am Heidi Warren-Guay. This will be my 14th year teaching. I am currently teaching Kindergarten in North Pole, AK for the third year. We are a military family and have lived a lot of places. We are originally from Montana and Alaska feels very much like home to us. Outside of teaching I love cheering on my three sons, side-by-siding and camping with my husband and family, a good long walk, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.

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Hello! My name is Gaby and I am originally from Texas. We are a military family so we move around a lot. We moved from Texas to California, where we lived for 8 years. Alaska is our 3rd duty station (and the best one). We are living our outdoor family dream here in Alaska. I am so excited to take this course and learn more about the area.

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Hello! My name is Mark Gustaveson, I teach Science and ASL. I am entering my third year at Gruening Middle School in Eagle River. I'm originally from Arizona but have followed my wife during her active duty career. I've taught in AZ, SC, NC, NV, Japan and now Alaska.

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Originally from an area outside of Houston, Texas. Lived in Galveston for a long while before moving up to Alaska for my wife's job. Taught for years in Texas, high school English and ESL. Loved working with the immigrant/migrant students. Getting this coursework done to be better for my native students and keep my certification.

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Good day everyone! My name is Florito from Lapu-Lapu City Cebu, Philippines. I am teaching for 4 years in AK as J1 teacher. I am teaching Middle School in one of the schools in Fairbanks.

I am so excited to learn about this 2 courses. I love working on all assignments provided in order to learn and know more about Alaska's history, cultures and about this course.

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Hello All! My name is Daniel White. I was born and raised in Stuttgart, Arkansas. I have been married for 30 years and I have two children who both got engaged in the last year. I left teaching for 10 years but felt the calling to re-engage with students who want to learn and grow. My wife always wanted to return to Alaska after living here as a child. We rolled the dice and here we are. I have lived in many places around the world, but home with my wife is always my favorite location. I look forward to learning about Alaska and growing as I complete this course.

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Hello

I was born and raised in Anchorage, AK. I moved out of state to Arkansas for 10 years began teaching there. Ive been back for 2 years and am very glad to be back teaching in my home state.

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I came to Alaska from Idaho where I taught for 10+ years. I am now teaching in Anchorage and love that I get to call this place home! I previously worked in a newcomer program M.L.L.'s and have been lucky to work with people from all over the world. I am now teaching Spanish in ASD at the middle school level.

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Hello! I am born and raised in Fairbanks, AK. I just finished my Master's in Ed. program for counseling with emphasis in school counseling and am working part-time as a secondary school counselor at an alternative high school in the FNSB school district. I am finishing up this 3-credit requirement so I can officially apply to be a licensed school counselor in the state of Alaska!

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Hi everyone! My name is Maegan Mascagno and I'm from Anchorage, AK. I've lived here since I was 4 years old. I currently work for YKSD as a School Counselor. This is my second year in this position. I keep busy with my husband, 6 year old daughter, Corgi, and 3 cats. We love to spend as much time outside as possible. Sneaking away to Homer is one of our favorite activities. Looking forward to furthering my knowledge on our great state!

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My name is Annie Marie, and I am originally from the Philippines. I spent more than ten years teaching before moving to Alaska in December 2025. Living and working in a new place has been both exciting and eye-opening, and I know there is still so much for me to learn. I look forward to completing this Alaska Studies course because it will help me better understand Alaska's cultures, history, and communities. I hope what I learn will make me a more effective teacher and help me build stronger connections with the students and families I serve.

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I am from Texas but moved to Fairbanks for a training year. This is going to be my third year teaching and I have been teaching in a village with the Kuspuk School District. I am the high school English teacher.

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My name is Luis Diaz Cheverez. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and teaching has been my passion for the past 16 years. Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to teach in Puerto Rico, Texas, and now Anchorage, Alaska, where I currently work as a Special Education teacher.

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My name is Vermon Jake V. Ceballos, and I am a 4th Grade Teacher at June Nelson Elementary School in Kotzebue, Alaska. I’m passionate about helping students learn, grow, and build confidence in the classroom.

Originally from the Philippines, I enjoy working with diverse learners, exploring new ideas in education, and creating engaging learning experiences for my students.

I’m excited to learn with all of you and look forward to sharing ideas throughout this course!

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Greetings,

My home is in Texas, and now it feels like Alaska! I had a long career there in many roles: Teacher, Region 4, University of Texas, Director...retired and came to Alaska.

I am the principal at Nunamiut in Anaktuvuk Pass.

My 5th year on the Slope!

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Hi,

I am from Boston Massachusetts. I have been teaching science there for the last 12 years. I am moving to teach in the Lower Kuskokwim School District Math/Science.

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Hi! My name is Noelle McNeil. I am from Pike Road, Alabama. I provide speech-language services via teletherapy for Anchorage School District.

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Hello, I am from Virginia originally. I taught in VA two years, then Mexico for two years and have taught in Alaska two years. I switched from teaching 2nd and 3rd grade and now do intervention for reading and math. I love Alaska.

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Hello, my name is Daisy Gequilan. I taught in Arizona for five years before moving to Alaska, and I am grateful to now serve the Chiniak School community within the Kodiak Island Borough School District. This is my second year here, and I feel honored to contribute to such a beautiful place.

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Hello! I'm an occuapational therapist from Iowa and this will be my 4th year providing virtual services through IDEA Homeschool Program/Galena City School District. I've really enjoyed getting to know students and their families and look forward to learning more about Alaskan culture.

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Hello! I am a Speech-Language Pathologist from Indiana. This will be my third year providing remote speech services to students in the Lower Kuskokwim School District. I'm excited to complete these Alaskan studies courses so that I may gain a more thorough understanding of Alaskan culture and its impact on education.

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Hello Everyone!

I'm Doug, and I'm a school psychologist who'll be working with Mat-Su Borough School District. I'll be working remote, and I live in Florida. I have worked in-person a few years ago for Chugach and Lower Kuskokwim School District. I had so many positive and cultural experiences there. I loved it!

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Hello I am from Talkeetna, born and raised. I know teach at Susitna Valley Middle/High School.

I am the BSP teacher here and starting my third year.

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Fairbanks!

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My husband and I moved to Anchorage in October of 2025 from New Orleans, where I was head of academics for a girls high school. Being back in the classroom has been a joy after 10 years in administration. Still figuring out the transition to the Alaskan way of life, but typing this from Kodiak Island and enjoying the natural beauty this state has to offer.

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Hello! My husband and I moved to Alaska roughly 4 years ago and have dived headfirst into all the hobbies - hiking, fishing, mountain biking, flying, etc.! We love calling this place home! Before moving up here, I taught for 5 years in Houston, TX. I currently work in early intervention and have thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the variety of families we serve!

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Hi, this is upcoming year, 26-27, will be my 2nd year as a teacher in the Anchorage School District. I have taught for 11 years now. I moved up to Alaska last August from Wyoming. I am excited to go hiking here in Alaska with my family and my husky. I am a math teacher and this upcoming year I will be teaching a couple of science classes as well.

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Hello! This school year (2026-2027) will be my third as an elementary school counselor in the Anchorage School District. Prior to entering the school system, I have worked as a community-based social worker in various sectors for more than 15 years. I'm really enjoying summers off with my children! :) Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, meeting new people, and being active in nature with my family.

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Hello! I'm Ian, an Elementary Special Education in Yupiit School District. Originally, I'm from the Philippines. It is my second year teaching in YSD and I am loving the culture and the environment where I am currently assigned. I am excited to learn more about the culture and immerse myself in different practices and traditions that make up Alaska unique. Also, I am looking forward to share our own cultural practices as Filipino. I am hoping that my stay in Alaska will be both fun and educational.

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Hello,

My name is Noah Johnson and I am a Middle School PE and Health teacher at Central Middle School of Science in Anchorage. This coming year will be my third year of teaching within ASD and my fourth year in total. I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska and love giving back to the community that raised me. I am also a football and wrestling coach and enjoy every second of time I get to influence the young athletes in the state.

In my free time I love to golf, camp, fish, and take advantage of all Alaska has to offer. I also love to introduce any and all activities to my students that they can use in the community or the remainder of time they spend in this great state.

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Hello! I'm originally from North Carolina, but have since lived in California, Texas, Maryland, and now Alaska. I started my career as a high school English teacher about 13 years ago. After spending some time outside of teaching, I started in elementary school here in Anchorage in 2023.

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Hello! I'm Danielle originally Madison, WI. Moved to Anchorage about 3 years ago and have loved it so far! I have worked for ASD for the past 3 years as an Adapted physical education teacher and travel to multiple school throughout the week. I'm looking forward to taking this course and learning more about the culture that surrounds education in Alaska.

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Hello! My name is Janine Banguanga, and I am from the Philippines. A place where family is the heart of everything. I grew up surrounded by warmth, laughter, and the kind of closeness that shapes who you become.

Moving to Alaska has added a new chapter to my story, but my roots remain deeply Filipino. The values I carry, resilience and caring for others come from home and from the family that raised me.

So when I say where I’m from, I’m from the Philippines, from my family’s love, and from the journey that brought us here to Alaska.

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Hi, Jamie here. I feel very lucky to have grown up in Anchorage, AK. I love running and music, which were thankfully nurtured through school and kept me living as a child/teen. I'm grateful for those communities. I taught a 4/5 combo class two years ago and subbed and traveled this last year. I have the, eh hem, *opportunity to take this class because I finished my degree online (out of state university). Jokes aside, I am genuinely excited to have a structured setting to learn more about my home! There's lots I wish I understood more fully, and this is a great time to dive in. Looking forward to learning with you all!

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Hello!

My name is Oliver and I just finished my first year teaching in Kasigluk, AK. I'm originally from Seattle, WA, and this past year was my first year in education. I teach social studies and english to middle and high schoolers at Akiuk Memorial School.

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Hello! I just finished a rewarding school year teaching the intensive program at Ketchikan High School. Learning about the community entities that provide support for students with disabilities and partnering alongside them was an incredible experience. I am looking forward to increasing my understanding of alaska native culture through this course.

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Hello, I am a music from Leesburg, Florida by way of western Massachusetts, where I taught for 4 years.

My primary focus is band; however, I also teach chorus and general music concepts in Nome, AK.

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Hi!

I'm Alaska born and after a year out in Charlotte NC, I'm ready to come back home!

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Hello! My name is Ellen Baucom and I am entering my 15 year in education. Last July (2025), my family moved to Sitka from Florida and I was able to get a special education position at the K-1 school. Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to teach in self-contained settings, inclusion settings and resource settings across the elementary and middle school grade levels. As a military family we lived in North Carolina, Florida and California prior to moving to Sitka. This past year teaching in Alaska was an amazing experience and I am looking forward to continuing to grow as an educator.

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Hi! I am Lori and I am a Principal originally from Texas with experience in the lower 48 states. I finished my first year as an administrator working in Alaska and I am looking forward to next year! 

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Hi! I am Lori and I am a Principal originally from Texas with experience in the lower 48 states. I finished my first year as an administrator working in Alaska and I am looking forward to next year! 

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Hi! I'm Jessica and I am a speech language pathologist from Georgia! I've worked within the schools for two years.

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Hello! My name is Andrea Olsen. I was born and raised in Anchorage Alaska. I obtained my special education teaching certification while I was living in Arizona and taught there for about 5 years. I then chose to move back to my home state of Alaska and I am happy to return!

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Uvaņa Qavvik. (My name is Wolverine.) Taniksiñiga Marie (My English name is Marie). Chuathbaluk-miuguruņa (I'm from Chuathbaluk). Bethel-miuguruņa (I was born in Bethel). Paņmapak Utqiaġvikmi iñuuruņa ( live in Utqiaġvik). Sakar kuyaaguruņa (Family Clan). Kelila kuyaaguruņalu (Other side of my family). I just finished my 18th year of teaching. My theme song is, "I've Been Everywhere, " I've taught at Kasigluk, Eek, Napakiak, Tuluksak, Kotzebue, Barrow before they changed the name to Utqiaġvik, Toksook Bay, Chuathbaluk, St. Mary's, Nome, St. Mary's, and now I'm an Iļisaurri: Iñupiaq Language Teacher at Hopson Middle School in Utqiaġvik. I've taught every grade from ECE-8th. I love hunting, fishing, gathering, and subsisting off of the land, sea, and rivers. I also love traveling to new places, and meeting new people. For years I wanted to take the Alaska Alive class while it was being taught by the late Father Michael Oleksa. I was blessed to sit though some of his presentations in district inservices, and listened to his sermons in the St. Sergius Russian Orthodox Church, which is the first Russian Orthodox church that was established on the Kuskokwim River in the 1800's. He translated some of the Slavonic words that were engraved on our chalice while he was serving. I've always been interested in classes that deal with Alaska Native History. I am the youngest of 8 children born to the late Sinka Sakar Sr of Crooked Creek, and Sophie K. Sakar of Aniak. I am a Certified Teacher of Athabascan, and Yup'ik descent. I have 5 daughters, and 5 grandchildren. I have always wanted to be a role model for the Alaska Native Youth population of Alaska, and I am doing that through teaching.

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Ken Brewington from Anchorage checking in

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Hello everyone! My name is Anastasia; I teach in a village along the Koyukuk River called Huslia. I currently teach 2nd and 3rd grade. I have been teaching in Alaska for 5 years so far. I am a mom to two teenage boys, so let's brace ourselves. My family relocated from Washington state after Covid19 occured. It has been a blessing being invited to a remote village in Alaska. Huslia has no roads to Fairbanks, which is the closest big city. There is a Bush airplane that travels to the inner remote villages. For example, there are two planes a day that deliver mail, freight and passengers. On Saturday, there is one plane. On Sundays, there are no regular flights. There is an occasional freight plane that delivers because the airline services are trying to catch up from a weather cancellation. Our community has a variety of buidings starting with the K-12 school, a postal office, a church, a couple of small locally owned stores, the water plant, an airport, a TCC Tribal office, a care clinic, a washateria, a baseball field, and many other community buildings. Our community is caring and supportive, and when emergencies occur, people are always ready to step up and take action. Learning another language is exciting too. I have really enjoyed learning new things in Alaska.

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Hi, my name is Andrea Harriman and I am about to enter my third year teaching in AK. I am originally from North Carolina, but moved to Alaska in January of 2024, just 2 weeks after graduating college. I have loved getting to learn about the culture here by getting involved in the community, and am excited to learn more of the history of the state as well.

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Good day!

I am currently a K-12 Special Education Teacher at Tetlin School, and on my second school year in the Alaska Gateway School District. Prior to moving to the United States, I spent thirteen rewarding years teaching young learners in the Philippines. In my current role, I primarily serve children of Athabascan descent. Over the past two years, I have been deeply grateful to experience their community values and unique way of life. I look forward to continuing my journey here and expanding my understanding of both the Athabascan culture and other Alaskan Native traditions.

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Hello everyone! My name is Myraflor, a J1 Teacher from the Philippines. I am currently in my third year, teaching at a school in Fairbanks. For the past two years, I did split classes. I've done both a 4th/5th and 2nd/3rd. Hopefully not this year 😅

The first time I set foot in Fairbanks, I fell in love with the place right away and I am greatly in awe of how stunning, laid-back and serene the community is. I truly appreciate also how warm and welcoming the people are. I am looking forward to learn more about this place through this course.

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Hello everyone! My name is Adrian, and I am currently in my second year teaching at Tok School. I teach HS Science and enjoy helping students connect science to the unique environment and communities here in Alaska. I'm excited to continue learning more about Alaska's history, cultures, and educational perspective through this course.

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Hi My name is Mona Liza Madronio. I am a J1 teacher. This is my third year teaching Math at North Pole middle School. I have my visa extended for another 2 years to complete the Cultural exchange program. It is my great pleasure to teach and able to complete the 5 year cultural exchange program here in North Pole Middle School Alaska.

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Hi My name is Mona Liza Madronio. I am a J1 teacher. This is my third year teaching Math at North Pole middle School. I have my visa extended for another 2 years to complete the Cultural exchange program. It is my great pleasure to teach and able to complete the 5 year cultural exchange program here in North Pole Middle School Alaska.

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I am currently teaching grade 6, 7 and 8 math.

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Hello! My name is Heather. I grew up in Washington state, where I taught for 9 years before our move to Fairbanks. I just finished my fourth year here in Fairbanks and am currently taking a break from teaching. I taught middle school English Language Arts. My husband and I married 4 years ago and moved up to Alaska just a week after we got married. Since moving to Fairbanks we have had two boys, ages 1 and 2. We now own a house on 20 acres with 9 ducks and 10 chickens.

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My name is Frank Oakes and I will become the next Principal at Edward Demoski school in Nulato. this will be my 47th year in education. I was a Teacher/Coach for 28 years before becoming at principal in San Marcos Texas and then in Austin Texas and San Antonio Texas. I then went to work as a Student Teacher Supervisor for the University of Texas. After this I became a Physics Teacher in Luling Texas. My goal has always been to finish out my career in Alaska! I will stay at this position as long as the good Lord lets me!!! I am looking forward to this class!

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Hello! My name is Catherine and I am going into my fourth year teaching. I was born and raised in a Yupik village in Bristol bay, finished high school in Fairbanks, then moved to the lower 48 to attend college in Missoula, Montana. I taught my first year of 5th grade in Montana, then moved back to Alaska, where I currently reside and teach 5th grade in Anchorage. I am excited and grateful for all of the new opportunities Alaska has for me now that I have returned home!

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I lived in Alaska for 8 years decades ago. I was a third grade teacher in Fairbanks for half of that time. I left teaching, and Alaska, to follow my very young sons to Maine and to pursue a different career. I started a completely different life. I “retired” from that career in 2022 and sold my home. I decided to live for a spell in “Three Pines,” Québec. One of my sons had moved back to Alaska and I visited him several times, especially once my first grandchild was born! The love of Alaska, and teaching, has remained with me over the years. I had always wanted to teach in a village. Alaska was beckoning me to come back. The stars aligned apparently and I just completed my first year teaching in Kivalina, an Iñupiaq Eskimo village of 400 on the northwest coast of Alaska. This past year I taught grade 4/5; my students will get me again next school year as I will teach grade 5/6. The year was challenging, not that I expected anything differently. It was undoubtedly a moving and profound experience. I feel privileged to teach there. Teaching in Kivalina may be unlike teaching anywhere else in Alaska; due to the village’s precarious location on the Chukchi Sea and occasional flooding, a new school and teacher housing was built almost 8 miles away, at a higher elevation, in the middle of the tundra.

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Hi, I am a fairly new teacher with only 3 years under my belt and recently left Georgia to come up here to Point Hope (in the North Slope) to teach 2nd grade. I am loving it here in Alaska do far! I have always enjoyed the cold (no mosquitos!) and the scenery is just absolutely breathtaking. This truly has been a lifetime experience and am looking forward to learning how to further incorporate the culture into the classroom and my lessons.

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Hello!

I live in Anchorage with my family and recently graduated with a Bachelor's in Elementary Education. I was a long-term sub this spring in third grade while I waited for my initial cert and LOVED teaching The Nest Egg curriculum. I am looking forward to diving deeper into understanding Alaska Native Cultures thru this class.

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Hello, I am shiree and I am from Minnesota. We moved here to Alaska last year and I am teaching first grade this year as well as next year.

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Hi!

I teach in a small bush village in central Alaska, out of Fairbanks. My background is in history and math but in the bush I teach all subjects. I'm looking forward to taking this class!

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Hello All,

I have just completed my first year of teaching in Alaska. My school is the only one in the Bristol Bay Borough District.

I moved here from Florida, where I taught for close to 30 years.

I have enjoyed my first year, though, honestly, I had a difficult time adjusting in the first semester.

I was assigned a mentor because it was my first time teaching in Alaska. This is a great program, and it helped me understand the culture of the school and the community. I am looking forward to my second year teaching and living here in Bristol Bay.

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Hi! I am currently working as a Registered Nurse for the Anchorage School District. My first career and BS was in Outdoor Recreation as a summer camp director. This past year, I really enjoyed working with student at a school deemed "the most diverse in the nation". I have learned tons about how different cultures view healthcare and want to discover ways I can support various communities.

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Hello! I am a former teacher and administrator looking to finish certification in Alaska. I was born and raised in Fairbanks, but moved away to attend college. My husband and I just returned in 2024. While I am mostly retired from teaching, I enjoy volunteering and subbing when I can. We now live in Fairbanks with our 8 year old daughter, three cats, a dog, and VERY LARGE garden that I enjoy in the summers. I am looking forward to this course!

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I am currently a 6-12 special education teacher. I've also worked as a middle school reading teacher, I have taught upper elementary grades, high school ELA & various electives in the past, starting in 2008. I've lived in Alaska for 2 years, having moved here with my family in 2024. We've recently bought a house & plan to stay here permanently. We have become beach combers, love to fish, & we love the weather.

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Hello! I'm currently finishing up my second year as a Kindergarten Teacher in Fairbanks. I moved here two years ago with my Air Force spouse. Before that I was working in Las Vegas as a 3rd grade teacher. I've loved my time here in Alaska but only have about a year left before leaving on my next military sponsored adventure. The best part is getting to learn more about the states I have moved to and I plan to use all that I've learned to help me connect with students moving forward.

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Hello! I am the current social studies coordinator for the Anchorage School District. In July 2024, I moved to Alaska with my wife from Charlotte, North Carolina, so she could start her career as a public defender. In Charlotte, I taught 7th- and 8th-grade social studies and served as an adjunct instructor of history and other humanities courses. I also have a background in corporate learning and development. I have a dog, one cat, and no children.

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Hi everyone! My name is Rizia, and I’m originally from the Philippines. I currently teach in Galena, and this school year is my fourth year teaching here.

I teach high school Physics, Physical Science, Chemistry, and AP Computer Science Principles. I enjoy helping students explore science and technology through hands-on activities and problem-solving. Living and teaching in Galena has been a unique and rewarding experience, and I’m excited to continue being part of the community!

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I am the high school science teacher and FFA advisor at Glennallen High School. I am wrapping up my second year teaching in Alaska. I taught in Texas for five years previously. My wife and I moved to Alaska with our two dogs so we could pursue our outdoor lifestyle. I enjoy hunting and fishing, and back country camping.

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Hello! I'm Lindsay, and I teach on the Kenai Peninsula. As school winds down, I'm closing out my 6th full year of teaching. I've taught pre-k, 2nd, 5th, and I did a short stint in 8th grade.

I am originally from Oklahoma. I lived in Fairbanks for six years, and I loved life in the Interior! My husband and I bought our first home and had all three of our children there. We thought we would live there forever! Moving to the Kenai Peninsula was an unexpected treat. We love the coastal community and all the incredible scenery south central Alaska has to offer.

It has been incredible to learn about Alaska history and culture through everyday life - it truly is a different world up here! However, I am looking forward to diving deeper, learning more about our incredible state, and integrating that new knowledge into my teaching and classroom!

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Hi, my name is Sarah. I am from the North Pole/Fairbanks area and work for the Fairbanks Northstar Borough Schook District. Now with it warming up, the cool spring/summer time is a stark contrast to all the snow and ice during the winter (50+ below zero was an adventure). I live within the community and am surprised to have learned that this area is an Arctic Desert. I am very interested in learning more about the local community. I am also interested in learning more about the local indigenous populations and their culture.

I originally come from San Antonio, Texas and have 14 years of teaching experience in Special Education. I have taught students from PREK-3 to 12th Grade and students qualifying for an Early College High School.

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Hi everyone,

My name is Jay Harold C. Panlilio, and I am originally from the Philippines. I am currently living and teaching in Kotzebue, Alaska, a small community above the Arctic Circle in the Northwest Arctic Borough. This is already my 4th year living and teaching in Alaska. Kotzebue is rich in Iñupiaq culture and is known for its beautiful Arctic landscapes, subsistence traditions, and strong sense of community.

I currently work as a Special Education (SPED) teacher at Kotzebue Middle High School (KMHS). Before becoming a SPED teacher, I taught Health Occupations and Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) courses. I enjoy learning about Alaska’s cultures, history, and communities, and I am excited to learn more through this course and from all of you!

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Hello, my name is Ailua Mamea-Neufeldt. I am teaching in Bethel and it's a great experience to be in rural Alaska. I've learned so much about the culture, their lifestyle, and how the people are friendly and amazing. I am looking forward to learn more about Alaska from this class.

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Hello, my name is Josephine, and I go by Jo. I am currently completing my first year teaching Special Education in Kodiak, Alaska. I am a resource teacher and primarily teach 2 and 3rd grade.

I am so grateful of where I am in life professionally and personally. Teaching holds me accountable to growth -- for myself along side my students. All while teaching in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

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Hi!

I am a speech language pathologist. I'm finishing up my second year, working virtually in the schools in Alaska and love it!

I like nature, hiking, and exploring new places. I have three very spoiled rescue dogs and live in Florida. I am excited for the opportunity to learn more about the rich culture and traditions of Alaska.

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My students fondly call me “Jo,” while others simply call me by my first name, Jovannie. I am a high school English teacher in Galena, a community filled with kindness, resilience, and potential.

Before teaching in Alaska, I spent more than 10 years teaching in the Philippines and another 3 years in the Bahamas, where I taught both Science and English. These experiences allowed me to grow not only as an educator but also as a lifelong learner.

For me, teaching is deeply rewarding because it is a continuous journey of learning and growth—for both the teacher and the students. The most fulfilling part of my profession is seeing students challenge themselves, give their best effort, and apply the concepts they have learned inside the classroom to real-life situations.

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I am an educator from New Orleans, Louisiana, currently serving students in the Lower Kuskokwim School District as the Career and Technical Education Coordinator. My personal and professional journey has been shaped by culture, community, resilience, and a deep belief in the power of education to create opportunity. Coming from New Orleans, I carry with me the values of family, musical tradition, catholic faith, perseverance, and community pride. These experiences influence the way I build relationships, support students, and approach teaching and leadership.

As an educator in LKSD, I recognize that I am working within communities with rich Yup’ik culture, language, traditions, and ways of knowing. I approach this work with humility, respect, and a willingness to listen and learn from students, families, elders, and colleagues. My goal is to create learning environments and opportunities where students feel seen, valued, and encouraged to bring their full identities into the classroom. I believe my background, combined with my commitment to culturally responsive teaching, allows me to connect with students in meaningful ways while honoring the unique strengths of the communities I serve. The Lower Kuskokwim area has many similar traditions to southeastern Louisiana. People in these areas both subsist by hunting and fishing.

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Hi Everyone. I live in Pennsylvania and am seeking Alaska certification. I have 20 years of experience teaching middle school and high school science.

I love gardening, hiking, biking and anything that keeps me outside with my Golden Retriever Carl.

I am excited to explore this course.

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Hello,

This is my first year in Alaska as I am currently teaching 5th grade at Gladys Jung. Teaching in Alaska has been an adjustment as I spent the last 10 years living and teaching in the United Arab Emirates. Living and working in Bethel has been a great experience as I had the opportunity to get involved with various activities at my school.

My educational journey has been quite interesting as I started as a business major and I have a BA in Psychology and MBA in Business Administration. I began my journey as a full-time teacher in Phoenix, Arizona where I worked with many ELL students. Learning about other cultures is one of my passions as I have experience tutoring and working in language immersion summer camps in Central Europe. One of my goals is to put my MA in Educational Leadership into use as this was something I delayed while living overseas.

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Hello All

I am an Intensive Needs Special Ed Teacher in the Kenai Peninsula Borough. I have lived in Kenai area for almost 7 years. At first, it was hard to be here because I felt so far from family, but I have grown to love it, even the winters! I have 3 sons in college and one daughter at home. My husband and I have moved a lot for his work (he is the administrator of a community health organization). We have lived in Iowa, Texas, and Minnesota. I look forward to learning with you!

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Hey everyone,

I'm Spyder Turco. I'm a second year assistant principal in the Mat-Su School district. Prior this this role, I was a math teacher at a middle school in Idaho.

My wife grew up in Palmer and wanted to come home. When I got an opportunity to work in the schools up here, we moved up.

It's been a great experience so far. Alaska is incredible! I love spending time doing anything in the mountains. The more time I spend up here the more this place grows on me. I'm excited to learn more about the history and culture of this area!

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Hello,

I am an English high school teacher, born and raised in Puerto Rico. I moved to Florida in 2017 and from there to Alaska in 2023. I like reading, traveling, and playing video games. My Master's Degree is in ESOL.