Dear Campbell STEM Staff and Families,

Last night, the Anchorage School Board voted to close Campbell STEM Elementary School at the end of this school year.

I know this decision is deeply painful for everyone in the Campbell community. Schools are much more than buildings; they represent relationships, routines, and places where children feel known. Campbell STEM has been that place for many students and families, and that matters. 

Our focus now turns to fully supporting students, families, and staff through a thoughtful and structured transition. 

What This Means for Students Next Year

Beginning next school year:

• Approximately 120 students who reside north of 76th Avenue would attend Willowcrest Elementary School
• Approximately 84 students would attend Gladys Wood Elementary School
• Approximately 45 students would attend Klatt Elementary School

• Three developmental preschool classrooms would relocate to Taku Elementary School
• Three developmental preschool classrooms and one general education Preschool classroom would relocate to Sand Lake Elementary School

The Campbell STEM facility will be returned to the Municipality.

Supporting Students and Staff

Our commitment is steady: ensuring every student continues to feel safe, supported, and connected during this transition.

In the coming months, students will have opportunities to visit their new schools, meet staff, and build relationships so that the start of the school year feels welcoming and familiar. Counselors and support staff will be available to assist with navigating this transition.

To our Campbell STEM staff: this decision affects you both personally and professionally. Your dedication to students and to this community has been visible and deeply valued. District leadership and Human Resources will work directly with you regarding placements and next steps. We are committed to clear communication and to treating every staff member with respect and care. 

Looking Forward

This decision reflects the difficult fiscal realities facing the district, and the need to align facilities with enrollment in order to protect classroom instruction and core academic programs across ASD. 

Even so, we recognize that understanding the reason does not lessen the emotions connected to this change. The sense of loss many are feeling is real.

What has made Campbell STEM special has always been its community of students, families, and educators. As this community transitions into new school environments, the care, curiosity, and commitment that defined Campbell STEM will continue in those new spaces. 

Our responsibility now is to support one another, provide stability for students, and honor what this school community has built over time. 

With sincerity and respect,

Jharrett Bryantt, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Anchorage School District