Programs

Tests are supposed to tell us how our kids are doing in school, but we've struggled nationally and in Alaska to figure out the right tests to use and even to define what we want the tests to tell us. On this edition of Hometown Alaska, we'll look at how Anchorage students are tested and ask if the system is working. What should young people get from our schools, and how should we measure their success? KSKA: Wednesday, Jan 27, at 2 and 8pm LISTEN NOW

Rookie mushers come and go. It takes countless hours and training to become an Iditarod great. On the next episode of Outdoor Explorer, we're talking to a handful of mushers who are on that journey. They scoop poop. They cut up a lot of raw meat. It's not glamorous work, but they're chasing down a dream as Iditarod sled dogs gun it for Nome. KSKA: Thursday, March 5, at 2:00 and 9:00 p.m. Listen Now:

The Alaska Suicide Prevention Council says 90% of people who die by suicide have depression or another treatable mental illness. Long winters, isolation and limited mental health services contribute to the problem, but many organizations across Alaska are working to lower the rates by talking about the issue.

KSKA: Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2017. This week we’re learning more about Islam from some of our fellow residents of Anchorage. We’ll hear from a panel of three people as they answer questions and discuss the interfaith relationships of modern religions. LISTEN NOW

A new project asks residents to share how they see the city by filling out a blank map with personal points of interest.

I am standing in Red Square. The pentagonal luminescent Ruby Stars glitter on top of five Kremlin towers, each an enormous jewel in the black night sky. In front of me is St. Basil’s Cathedral. It takes my breath away and is by far the most vibrant and enchanting building I have ever seen. Read more.

Alaska Public Library Director Mary Jo Torgenson just released the 2012 report for the library. This document is a great reminder of the importance of stepping back and looking at the big picture. Though filled with numbers, the overall arc of the report emphasizes why the library does what it is doing. Read more.

While most creative talents leave Alaska for the chance of more exposure in big cities, Emma Hill is not only making a living as a musician in her home state, she's thriving. Hill grew up in the small Alaskan village of Sleetmute.

A faith-based women's shelter declares victory in its legal battle with the city of Anchorage. And Alaska Airlines is no longer the country's least-polluting domestic air carrier.

Whether it's with cult films, theatrical performances, or musical acts, comedienne Collette Costa keeps her Juneau neighbors entertained year-round.