AK HB351

Creates a new framework for state-tribal education compact schools as public schools established through compacts between the commissioner of education and federally recognized tribes or tribal organizations.

State-tribal education compact schools must comply with applicable state education laws, regulations, school district operations, public school funding procedures, and discrimination prohibitions unless the state board specifically exempts them.

Compact schools cannot charge tuition, must enroll all eligible students on a non-discriminatory basis by age group or grade level, but may prioritize enrollment of tribe members and siblings if capacity is insufficient.

Compact schools receive state funding calculated using student count, school size factor, special needs factor, and district cost factor, and are eligible for intensive services funding.

Allows state-tribal education compact schools to prioritize employment of tribal members and clarifies their status as local educational agencies eligible for federal funding; most provisions take effect June 30, 2028.