Experiential Learning Program Design for Teacher Retention in Rural Alaska

Rural Alaska offers unique opportunities for educators to live and work in Indigenous communities and support efforts to align schools with Indigenous peoples’ priorities for their children. However, teacher turnover in rural Alaska is an enduring challenge, with significant costs to districts and disruptions to students, communities, and schools. This article discusses a partnership initiative in the Bristol Bay Region of Alaska to improve teacher retention and educators’ cultural competencies. Partners include the University of Alaska Anchorage School of Education, the Bristol Bay Foundation, and four rural school districts. The partners designed a path for teachers to earn the M.Ed. Teaching and Learning at the University of Alaska Anchorage through online coursework and experiential learning over three years. Research data show higher retention rates for participating teachers and evidence of enhanced culturally responsive practices. The article presents the design process, program model, research findings, and next steps.