State education board OKs UAA program aimed at tackling school psychologist shortage

January 27, 2026 - 11:22

In a decisive move to confront a critical staffing crisis, the Alaska State Board of Education and Early Development has unanimously greenlit a new graduate program at the University of Alaska Anchorage. The newly approved Master of Education in School Psychology is designed specifically to train and certify more professionals for the state's public schools.

Alaska has long grappled with a severe shortage of qualified school psychologists, a gap that leaves many students without access to vital mental health support, behavioral intervention, and special education services. This shortage is particularly acute in rural and remote districts. The new UAA program aims to build a sustainable pipeline of homegrown talent to serve K-12 students across the state.

The program's curriculum will meet national certification standards, ensuring graduates are prepared to conduct evaluations, support student well-being, and collaborate with teachers and families. By educating and retaining professionals within Alaska, officials hope to reduce reliance on Outside hires and temporary contracts, which have been an unstable solution. The initiative represents a significant investment in the future of Alaska's educational infrastructure and the holistic health of its student population. University officials anticipate the program will begin admitting its first cohort in the near future.