Mat-Su School Board approves policy allowing trained employees to carry concealed handguns on campus

By SUZANNE DOWNING

June 4, 2026 – The Matanuska-Susitna Borough School Board approved a new school safety policy Wednesday night that will allow certain trained employees, School Board members, and contracted individuals to carry concealed handguns on school property as part of a voluntary security program.

The measure passed on a 5-2 vote, with board members Ole Larson and Tom Bergey voting against it.

The new policy establishes a process through which qualified volunteers may apply for authorization to carry a concealed handgun while on campus. Participation is entirely voluntary, and applicants must meet a lengthy list of requirements before receiving written approval from the superintendent.

Under the policy, participants must possess a valid Alaska concealed handgun permit, complete district-approved training, pass physical and psychological evaluations, and submit to drug and alcohol screening. They must also undergo annual recertification and additional training focused on active shooter response, firearm safety, and emergency medical response.

The policy requires participants to provide their own firearm, ammunition, and holster, all of which must meet district specifications. Authorized individuals must keep their firearm concealed and on their person while on campus, with limited provisions for secure storage. Firearms may not be left in school buildings overnight.

District officials will maintain confidentiality regarding the identities of authorized carriers, although local law enforcement and building administrators will be informed. The policy states that employees who improperly disclose the identity of authorized participants may face disciplinary action.

The policy also creates a separate Emergency Responder Support program, allowing volunteers to receive specialized first-aid and emergency response training to assist during critical incidents such as active shooter events. Participants in both programs may receive stipends for taking on the additional responsibilities.

According to the policy, training requirements will range from eight to 40 hours annually and must be completed outside an employee’s regular work schedule and at the employee’s expense. The superintendent retains final authority to approve or deny applications and may revoke authorization at any time.

The policy states that the concealed-carry program is intended to further the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students, staff, and visitors. District facilities will post signage notifying the public that authorized individuals may be carrying concealed handguns on school property for security purposes.

The vote places the Mat-Su district among a growing number of school systems nationwide that have adopted similar policies.