OPINION: Education funding is a critical investment in public health

While the first things that come to mind when we think of “public health” might be front-line health care workers or the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the vitality and accessibility of public schools are some of the most foundational preventative measures that exist today. If you think of societal well-being as a blanket of different initiatives and individuals, the threads of education and public health are inextricably woven together — creating a fabric that flourishes or frays based on the investments we make. The allocation of funds to education in Alaska isn’t just an economic decision; it’s a profound commitment to the health and vitality of our communities. As we grapple with the uncertain and, frankly, embarrassing commitments the state of Alaska has made to the education budget, it is increasingly clear that education funding is a public health issue that demands every citizen’s urgent attention.

Adequate education funding is the cornerstone upon which we build a healthier, more resilient society. Consider the ripple effect of a well-funded education system: It empowers our youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life’s challenges, fosters critical thinking and cultivates a sense of community and responsibility. This sense of community is one of the most critical aspects, as the existence of “third spaces” for Alaska’s children and youths has dwindled dramatically in recent decades. Third spaces are social environments that exist outside of the typical spheres of home (first space) and work or school (second space). Without these, Alaska’s youth turn to school and extracurricular activities like clubs and sports to make up the entirety of their social development, something that is invariably put at risk when funding is cut from these valuable resources.

Underfunded schools face a cascade of challenges that compromise the quality and health of the children and youth in our state. Overcrowded classrooms, outdated resources and limited extracurricular opportunities create an environment where Alaska’s students are disadvantaged at every step of development. The repercussions extend beyond academic performance to mental and physical health; chronic stress and inadequate educational resources can contribute to a range of problems, affecting both the current and future well-being of students. Moreover, education funding is inextricably linked to how the socioeconomic status of children impacts their health on a personal and interpersonal level. Communities with well-funded schools are more likely to have engaged parents, supportive social networks and access to after-school programs and activities. These factors contribute to a holistic approach to health that extends beyond clinical care to encompass the broader determinants of well-being.

Alaska’s policymakers, educators, and community leaders need to recognize the symbiotic relationship between education funding and public health—it’s time to shift the narrative from viewing education as a line item in a budget to recognizing it as an investment in the long-term health and prosperity of our communities. Adequate funding for education is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for building a society where all Alaskans, especially our children and youth, have the opportunity to thrive.

Ella Johanknecht is a senior at West Anchorage High School. She is a member of the West Medical Academy and the state board of HOSA, a student-led organization of future health professionals.

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