Whether that is fair, or helpful, is likely to be the next education dispute in Alaska, following a similar debate over the value of the high school graduation exam.

State education commissioner resigns, Judge OKs delays in ex-legislators' trials, U.S. Army identifies soldier killed in Iraq, Department accepts vending applications, Fairbanks hospital halts surgeries

In fall 2002, Alaska's schools will be labeled as distinguished, successful, deficient or in crisis, depending on standardized test scores and their change from year to year. What's in a label?

The economic-stimulus package Congress passed two years ago preserved hundreds of thousands of jobs in the nation's public schools but, with the economy still sputtering, the future of many of those positions remains in jeopardy.

The tiny Port Protection School, isolated on the northern tip of Prince of Wales Island, did the best job of any school in Southeast Alaska last year, according to the state. The school, with 12 students, was one of only 10 rated "outstanding" by state education officials last year.

Alaska officials will conduct a national search to find a replacement for the outgoing commissioner of the Department of Education and Early Development.

Don't be surprised if high school sophomores do better on this spring's exit exam. The state has created a new test that emphasizes basic skills, and is likely to change the passing scores, as well. State education officials say the new test measures essential skills needed in daily life. But some people are concerned that a basic test won't challenge most students and spur them to improve.

The Alaska Department of Education wants to test the competence of teachers before renewing their certificates to teach.

ANCHORAGE - The state selected three finalists in the search for a candidate to serve as commissioner of Education and Early Development.

...1993-2002; executive committee member, National Conference of State Legislators; former vice-chair, Education Commission of the States. Business/Professional: Alaska Airmen's Association; Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association; National...