DISTRICT NEWS
Board of Education Budget Retreat Saturday, January 31, 2026
There will be a Board of Education Budget Retreat beginning at 9 a.m on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in the District Services Conference Room, F140 of the old high school wing. Board Retreats are informal meetings and no formal actions will be taken at the retreat. The...
Board of Education Special Meeting Monday, January 26, 2026
There will be a Board of Education Special Meeting beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 2026, in the District Services Conference Room, F140 of the old high school wing. Action Items on the agenda include: Technology Capital Project FY 26 Budget Winter Budget...
Superintendent Candidate Update
Last night, Candidate Kim Hanisch accepted a contract as Superintendent of Cordova City School District. The schedule for the Superintendent Candidate Finalist Visit has been updated. The days and times for Public events are unchanged. Please refer to the document...
BOE Notice of Possible Quorum
Candidates for the position of Superintendent will be visiting the School District this week. There will be a full day of activities on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Board of Education has been invited to these events and a quorum may be present....
UPCOMING EVENTS
We gather on the traditional homeland of the Alutiiq/Sugpiaq people. The heritage and culture of the Alutiiq people continue to enrich our communities and our schools.
Our Mission
The Mission of the Kodiak Island Borough School District is to engage and empower all students for growth and success.
KIBSD IMPACT MAKERS
Nori De Asis
The November Certificated Impact Maker is Nori De Asis, PE Teacher at Peterson Elementary Nori was nominated for the following: Ms. Nori is an amazing P.E. teacher and we are grateful to have her at Peterson! Her students are learning many skills, including stretches, breathing exercises, problem solving tools, and the rules of the games. She uses fantastic visuals (check out her Turkey’s right now!) and provides clear expectations for her students. Teaching physical education can be challenging, but she handles it so well! She also cares deeply for her students and works hard to notice how they are feeling and follows through with any concerns.
Amber Bunker
The November Classified Impact Maker is Amber Bunker, Nurse at Kodiak Middle School Amber was nominated three times for the following: -Nurse Amber started an amazing project at the middle school, “KMS Pantry Project” The is something that is above and beyond the school nurse’s scope of practice. She started this in our district out of the goodness of her heart. She is an amazing team member in the Middle School, Nursing Team, and the school district. I am hopeful this project can be picked up by all the other schools in the district. Nurse Amber recognized the importance of feeding students and the importance of students needing some fuel for the brain to work. Nurse Amber creates a safe, trusting relationship with all of her students and families. I feel like she goes above and beyond on a daily basis. I know my daughter wouldn’t have had a good experience in middle school without Nurse Amber’s compassionate care. The middle school is lucky to have Nurse Amber!!! -I am nominating Nurse Amber because she has made an indelible mark on Kodiak Middle School. She brings compassion, calm, and dedication to her work each day- whether she is managing emergency situations, chronic conditions, comforting a worried child, or supporting families. Her heart, kindness, and professionalism make our school a safer, healthier, and more nurturing place for everyone. -Amber is nothing short of a miracle worker. How she sees so many students each day and still has time to coordinate and prepare weekend meal bags for our food insecure students, I don’t know, but she does it! Need a change of clothes? Nurse Amber has your back. Need a snack? Nurse Amber will help you out. She is absolutely phenomenal. We would be lost without you Nurse Amber!!!
Smiley Tabanan
The second November Classified Impact Maker is Smiley Tabanan, Central Office Custodian Smiley was nominated for the following: Smiley you are a joy to see everyday. Thank you for keeping my office tidy. I appreciate all you do to keep F-Wing clean. You are truly a joy and we are grateful to have you on our team.
Christine Vidal
The October Certificated Impact Maker is Christine Vidal, Special Education Teacher at East Elementary. Christine was nominated four times for the following: SHE’S THE KIND OF PERSON WHO WORKS HARD WITHOUT MAKING BIG FUSS ABOUT IT. ALWAYS CALM, ALWAYS CARING, LIKE THE QUIET HERO OF THE TEAM. Ms. Christine isn’t just kind and genuine, you can tell she was born to teach. Her passion shines through in everything she does. She doesn’t just go through the motions; she makes sure her students are actually learning (and enjoying it too). She’s caring, compassionate, and somehow always knows just what each student needs. Christine was very supportive of the speech team during our staffing shortages. She helped bring students to sessions and run technology. We can not thank you enough!! I am nominating Dr. Christine because she has made a remarkable impact on my child’s academic and behavioral growth over the past two years. She is a humble yet hardworking special education teacher at East who truly knows what she’s doing—and it’s clear that she loves her work. Dr. Christine goes above and beyond for her students, and her dedication shows in the progress they make. I’m sure every parent whose child is under her care would agree. Keep up the amazing work, Dr. Christine!
Irlanda Vaughn
The October Classified Impact Maker is Irlanda Vaughn, Aide IV at Kodiak High School. Irlanda was nominated for the following: What a blessing to have such a caring and supportive co-worker! She stepped in to support both our office team and a student by providing translation when a parent on campus really needed assistance. We are so grateful that she just happened to be walking by and offered her help right when it was needed most. Her kindness made a real difference, and we are truly thankful for her support!
Katrina Stewart
The September Administrative Impact Maker is Katrina Stewart, Director of Secondary Learning. Katrina was nominated twice for the following: Katrina, your thoughtful attention to detail and consistent, compassionate leadership is an inspiration to many. Thank you for your work with new teachers. Katrina is professional, kind, & considerate. She emanates grace and humility. She is so incredible at her job that she can make it look easy. Katrina Stewart is supportive and will make time for staff because she is dedicated to the mission of KIBSD. Time with Katrina is a gift because it is easy to become a better version of yourself when in her presence. Thank you, Katrina for taking us to a higher level and keeping us poised and focused on our values and mission.
Stefanie Kondro
The September Certificated Impact Maker is Stefanie Kondro, Social Studies Teacher at Kodiak Middle School. Stefanie was nominated for the following: No one believes harder than Kondro. Because: 6th grade toilets, support of others, new staff support, selfless, never tiring, organized, student first everything.
Marcella Amodo-White
The September Classified Impact Maker is Marcella Amodo, Aide II at Akhiok School. Marcella was nominated for the following: Marcella Amodo-White has been an incredible support for Akhiok School and its staff. She has gone out of her way to welcome the new teachers, making sure they feel comfortable, included, and ready to succeed in their roles. Marcella has truly taken the new staff under her wing, offering guidance, encouragement, and a warm connection that has made all the difference in their transition. Her dedication and care create a positive and supportive environment at Akhiok School. Marcella’s impact is felt not only by the teachers she supports but also by the entire school community. She exemplifies the qualities of a KIBSD Impact Maker through her kindness, leadership, and commitment to others.
Nate Tinambacan
The March Certificated Impact Maker is Nataniel Tinambacan of Old Harbor School Nate was nominated for the following: Mr. Nataniel Tinambacan is doing an incredible job supporting his 2nd and 3rd grade students this year. With care and dedication, he is meeting each student where they are and helping them grow both academically and personally. His calm, consistent approach creates a supportive classroom environment where students feel seen, valued, and encouraged to do their best. Mr. Tinambacan’s commitment to his students’ success is evident in the thoughtful way he plans his lessons and responds to individual needs. We truly appreciate the heart he brings to his work every day.
Tricia Krug
The March Classified Impact Maker is Tricia Krug of Kodiak Middle School Tricia was nominated for the following: Tricia is the glue that holds our work together. She is a non-stop pinball that moves from one task to another with interruptions beyond comprehension. It takes a real strong individual to work in this manner and she always gets it done. Can’t imagine KMS without her.
Nicolas Irons
The February Certificated Impact Maker is Nicholas Irons Nicholas was nominated for the following: Nicolas has been a stellar and innovative new teacher. He has presented fresh ideas and frameworks to teach high school students about civics and how to be an informed and engaged citizen. He has taken up the mantle of teaching crucial transferable skills in personal finance. In his first year in this district, he has proven both his scope and variety of subject matter, but also a master of pedagogical strategies. His assigned teaching duties have brought forth realistic and memorable subjects, that his students will carry beyond KHS. From Freshmen to Seniors, Mr. Irons has made a difference.
Tess Olaes
The February Classified Impact Maker is Tess Olaes Tess was nominated three times for the following: She has been working so hard to test every student we can and finish testing as quickly as possible. Tess has been covering classes all over the building calling colleagues, following up with me, and pushing me to tie all loose ends! Ms. Tess is an absolute champion in KHS. Not only did manage many of the ELAP tests on her own, she will often spend time with students in their regular classes exclusively to build good relationships with them. She is busy every second of the day, often working with kids to give them the strength they need to attempt new things on their own. She gives kids the courage to fail and try again. She is a motherly figure to many of the students here at KHS. Tess is always wanting students to put their best foot forward and and do their best. She is constantly making sure students have their work done and completed and they understand the material. She is a great asset here at KHS. She also spends her time in the gym doing duty for 30 minutes without fault every day.
Daria Safronova
The January Certificated Impact Maker is Daria Safronova from Kodiak High School Daria was nominated for the following: I would like to nominate Daria Safronova for an Impact Maker award for her many contributions as an educator at Kodiak High School. Over the years, Daria has exemplified dedication to fostering an engaging, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment for her students. Whether teaching Alaska History, World History, Russian or Learning Lab, she brings an enthusiasm that helps students to connect meaningfully with content. Daria’s commitment to cultural sensitivity, her continuous pursuit of personal and professional growth, and her ability to adapt and implement feedback make her an exceptional teacher. Beyond the classroom, she founded and leads the popular Chess Club. Daria’s impact extends far beyond her lessons—she consistently cultivates a positive and lasting influence on the academic and personal development of her students, making her a true “Impact Maker.”
Donn Sofranes
The January Classified Impact Maker is Donn Sofranes from Kodiak High School Donn was nominated for the following: Donn is an overwhelmingly thoughtful and considerate person. He is genuine and open with the goal of best serving our students. We desperately need more people like Donn around because he makes the world better by being transparent, and seeing students, celebrating them and encouraging their efforts.
Sabrina Sutton
The December Administrative Impact Maker is Sabrina Sutton, Principal of Main Elementary! Sabrina was nominated for the following: Sabrina’s leadership is next to none! She has a strong vision for our building and supports the staff in a variety of ways. She creates a welcoming environment and makes work a safe place to collaborate! Sabrina is such a wonderful Admin, thoughtful, caring, fair and considerate while still holding us all to a high standard, i feel very thankful to work with her everyday.
Eric Raisle
The December Certificated Impact Maker is Eric Raisley, Construction Trades teacher at Kodiak High School! Eric was nominated for the following: Eric Raisley has worked hard to be a supportive and visual presence in the KHS hallways, chatting with students, and offering positive words. He’s there each day making a positive impact. He inspires others to get in the hallways and connect with students.
Megan Diemer
The December Classified Impact maker is Megan Diemer, Secretary at North Star Elementary! Megan was nominated for the following: What doesn’t Megan do??? she fills in wherever needed and doesn’t complain!! she does a better job then day and night custodians do!! she’s a pleasure to work with!!! Megan is always super welcoming and understanding. She gets to welcome each student at breakfast and she is always so kind to them and setting them up for a great day. Megan knows each student by name and has pride in what she does. Her bulletin boards are always beautiful informational and up to date! I appreciate Megan and her heart for North Star!
Jason Fox
The November Certificated Impact Maker is Jason Fox from Kodiak High School Jason was nominated for the following: I would like to nominate Jason Fox for an Impact Maker Award in recognition of dedication to the students, staff and families of Kodiak High School. As a counselor, Jason goes above and beyond to ensure that every student has the academic and social-emotional support they need to succeed, not only in graduation but in life beyond high school. Whether guiding students through tough decisions, helping them navigate personal challenges, or providing mentorship, Jason is a constant source of support and guidance. His leadership extends beyond his individual role, as he actively contributes to the KHS Foundations team, working to foster a positive, inclusive, and productive school environment. Thank you, Jason for your compassion, commitment, collaborative spirit and leadership.
Victoria Christiansen
The November Classified Impact Maker is Victoria Christiansen from North Star Elementary Victoria was nominated twice for the following: Her heart. Her commitment to making North Star a place student’s want to be. For building community and carrying on traditions. For bringing back Seniors to serve at the Thanksgiving Feast, their excitement levels to return to their home elementary school where core memories were formed was wonderful. For allowing 5th graders the opportunity they’ve been waiting for since they attended their first Thanksgiving Feast at North Star, to serve their fellow students and families. A lot of work happens in advance behind the scenes. Your dedication to the school and the students, the relationships you build, the familiarity you provide is all invaluable. Your light shines BRIGHT! She always goes above and beyond to make sure the students at North Star have a year to remember. This month, she helped organize, decorate, and break down the Annual Thankful Feast at North Star which brought in most families to eat with their child/children while the 5th grade along with the KHS Seniors who attended North Star. She is also the co-coordinator of the student council and helped organize the pies to be given out as prizes for their thankful words to the staff at North Star. On top of all of this, she set up the book fair for the family conferences the same week as the Thankful Feast. She is a beast and we don’t know what we would do without her.
Rochelle Andrews
The October Classified Impact Maker is Rochelle Andrews from Chiniak School. Rochelle was nominated twice for the following: Rochelle Andrew is an outstanding educator who is always eager to learn new teaching techniques and genuinely cares about each student. Rochelle Andrews, an aide at Chiniak School, has shown tremendous initiative by partnering with our Interventionist to learn how to implement UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) lessons for a new Kindergartener. Her commitment to mastering these structured literacy techniques highlights her dedication to providing targeted support for early learners. Rochelle’s enthusiasm for developing her skills ensures that this student will receive high-quality instruction tailored to their needs, laying a strong foundation for future success. Her collaborative spirit and eagerness to learn make her a vital part of our educational team.
Bea Dunlop
The October Certificated Impact maker is Beth “Bea” Dunlop from Kodiak High School. Bea was nominate for the following: Often those who are most outgoing get recognition. Bea Dunlop may not be outgoing but she is definitely deserving, she cares for students, staff and families, carefully examines new ways to make an impact, not for the recognition but because it is who she is and part of her mission as a teacher. She sees all students, even the quieter ones who often are overlooked. She is interesting, incredibly intelligent, kind and generous with her time and energy. Thank you Mrs. Dunlop! Students really appreciate you and so do staff.
Shayla Deming
The September Certificated Impact Maker is Shayla Deming from Port Lions School Shayla was nominated twice for the following: Our elementary students have thrived since she has become their teacher last year. She puts our students and school first and foremost. Shayla Deming exemplifies calm, quiet leadership, making a profound impact through her thoughtful and steady approach. Her ability to build strong, trusting relationships with her students is truly remarkable, creating a nurturing environment where every student feels seen and supported. Shayla’s deep connection to the community further enhances her effectiveness, as she understands the unique needs and values of the families she serves. Her leadership, rooted in empathy and consistency, inspires those around her, making her an invaluable asset to both the school and the community.
John Fernandez
The September Classified Impact Maker is John Fernandez in Early Childhood Services John was was nominated three times for the following: John is super helpful I nominate John because he’s very helpful with the students he work with, and he is good at communication. Great spirit to work with! His joy is infectious to the students 🙂
Kodiak Island Borough School District
722 Mill Bay Rd. Kodiak, AK 99615
Phone 907-486-7550