GALENA INTERIOR LEARNING ACADEMY (GILA)

Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) is a Title I public high school that is part of the Galena City School District school district, located in Galena, AK with about 237 students offering grade levels from 9th Grade to 12th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 19 teachers, Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) has a student/teacher ratio of about 12:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

The Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) is a unique, state-funded residential boarding school located in Galena, Alaska. Designed to serve students from across the state—particularly those from rural and remote Alaskan communities—the academy provides a structured academic environment that emphasizes individualized learning. By offering a residential setting, GILA aims to bridge the gap for students who may not have access to a full range of educational resources or extracurricular opportunities in their home villages, fostering a community that prioritizes both personal growth and academic achievement.

The academy is well-regarded for its diverse curriculum, which blends traditional high school coursework with vocational training and hands-on learning experiences. Because the student body is composed of youth from various cultural and geographic backgrounds, GILA places a strong focus on building a supportive, inclusive campus culture that encourages leadership and independence. Through its residential model, the school provides a comprehensive experience that prepares students for post-secondary success, whether they intend to pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or return to their home communities to contribute to local development.

For more information, contact Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) at (907) 656-2053 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.