How will this gal fit in Anchorage? (Kodiak, Skagway: ski resort, school districts)

[northrngal]

Greetings! I am currently in grad school working on my teaching licensure for secondary (grades 7-12) English. My boyfriend and I live in Duluth, MN (the second coldest city in the continguous U.S., so AK weather is nothing new to us) and I would really like to get a job teaching in Anchorage when I graduate. I do plan on securing a job before moving, however I would appreciate a little input as to whether Anchorage is the best place for us and also what other areas of AK might be fitting as well, as I am open to accepting positions in other school districts in AK.

We are in our twenties, and looking for a place with plenty of access to outdoor activities. When it comes to the outdoors, when the snow is not on the ground, we love mountaing biking and are hoping to move to a place with great trails. I'm a runner and am excited to read about Anchorage's extensive trail system for this. In the winter, we both love cross-country skiing (both skate and classic) and also are beginning skijoring with our Siberian Husky. Downhill skiing and snowboarding would also be a priority--what kind of options are nearby? Snowshoeing, hiking and camping are also important, and I know these activities are pretty easy to have access to anywhere in AK.

Additionally, I would like to be in a city big enough to offer options in the arts/cultural activities. It doesn't have to be extensive, but I do appreciate the opportunity to go plays, museums, concerts etc in my free time.

Finally, I know AK leans to the right, however are there communities of liberal leaning/progressive folk like myself to fit in with or will I feel totally out of place with the political atmosphere in Alaska?

Thanks so much for your help!

[Bob Blockus]

once inside public school system of Alaska its like lottery pool. state can move school teachers around in different areas of Alaska for several years at times. pick big place like Anchorage for better chance to start school teachers job. then can start moving around the state. Kodiak and Skagway, Alaska is best. yes indeed.

[Rance]

Google Alyeska Ski Resort in Girdwood. It's a great place to ski. And there are hundreds of places to cross country ski.

[Candle]

Originally Posted by Bob Blockus

once inside public school system of Alaska its like lottery pool. state can move school teachers around in different areas of Alaska for several years at times. pick big place like Anchorage for better chance to start school teachers job. then can start moving around the state. Kodiak and Skagway, Alaska is best. yes indeed.

were you drunk when you wrote that?