There has been interest in having Alaska History and Cultural Studies taught in our schools since the early years of statehood. Steady but slow progress has been made. One by one, Alaska’s school districts have added Alaska history courses to their high school curriculum. The majority - but not all - of Alaska’s 50-plus school districts now require a high school class. Teaching materials, once rare, are becoming more abundant and a new Alaska History and Cultural Studies curriculum will soon be available to any district at no cost, thanks to an initiative started by the Alaska Humanities Forum, funded by Senator Ted Stevens.

An Alaska History course requirement dovetails nicely with the existing social studies graduation requirement and does not need to add to the credit load required for graduation. A 1/2 credit Alaska History and Cultural Studies course could be part of the three social studies credits currently required of high school students for graduation.

This year 55 Alaskans traveled to Fairbanks to address questions about the financial future of Alaska. The symbolism invoked memories for many Alaskans of the 55 delegates assembling in Fairbanks to draft what the nation subsequently has hailed as a model state constitution. The history of our development of a state is unique. Understanding how we became a state and the role development of our resources has played in creating the character of Alaska is important to finding solutions to today's challenges and planning for our future.