Haines' newest special education teacher is leaving mid-year after her work permit was denied and the district says it won't pursue visa hires going forward.
Stacey Spencer moved from Trinidad and Tobago to rural Alaska looking for a new chapter in a long career living and working in the U.S. Now that future in the U.S. is uncertain.
Superintendent Lilly Boron says federal visa hurdles, and potential new fees, have made international hiring too costly and unpredictable.
With special education positions already hard to fill statewide, the district may have to cobble together a temporary fix.
This story from Will Steinfeld and Rashah McChesney traces how federal immigration policy is landing in one small classroom and what it means for local students.
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Glacier Bear Isaac Jones guards a player during a game against the Wrangell Wolves on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, in Haines. The Glacier Bears won 55-36.(Rashah McChesney/Chilkat Valley News)
We're launching a community book club with our neighbors in Haines, The Bookstore. Find out more about what we're reading and how you can join us for a discussion with author Rosemary McGuire.
