History

Birchtree Charter School grew out of a movement that started in 2006, when four families united around their interest in Waldorf education and their dedication to helping their children develop academically, physically, socially and emotionally. The families initially collaborated to hold a Waldorf-inspired homeschool co-op. In 2008, this group formed the Birchtree Parent Guild (BPG) and began the process of establishing a  K-8 charter school guided by the core principles of Waldorf education. Birchtree Parent Guild participation grew and the group began offering activities to the Mat-Su community guided by the core principles of Waldorf education. In August 2009, seven members split from the Birchtree Parent Guild to form the Academic Policy Committee (APC) for Birchtree Charter School. The Charter was approved by the MSBSD in November of 2009, and by the State of Alaska in March of 2010. The Birchtree Parent Guild and the Academic Policy Committee worked together to get the school ready to welcome students by its opening date of August 2010. It was anticipated the school would open with 160 students enrolled. However, there was great interest in Birchtree Charter School and the actual enrollment for the first year was 220 students. The 2017-2018  school year has an enrollment of nearly 410 students and maintains a wait list in most grades.  Birchtree board members and staff continue to work hard to nurture this unique school community.