WHITTIER COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Whittier Community School is a Title I public school that is part of the Chugach School District school district, located in Whittier, AK with about 33 students offering grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten 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 5 teachers, Whittier Community School has a student/teacher ratio of about 6:1. 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.

Whittier Community School, located on Portage Street in Whittier, Alaska, serves as a vital educational hub for the small, tight-knit coastal community. As part of the Chugach School District, the school is recognized for its commitment to a personalized, performance-based approach to learning. By leveraging its unique location in Prince William Sound, the school often integrates the surrounding natural environment into its curriculum, fostering a hands-on educational experience that reflects the distinct lifestyle and values of the Whittier area.

Because the Chugach School District is known for its progressive "standards-based" education model, Whittier Community School prioritizes student mastery of skills over traditional grade levels. This approach allows teachers to tailor instruction to the individual needs and interests of each student, encouraging self-advocacy and academic growth. For families in this remote Alaskan setting, the school acts as more than just a classroom; it serves as a central pillar of the community, promoting collaborative learning and strong connections between students, staff, and the local residents.

For more information, contact Whittier Community School at (907) 472-2575 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.