The intent is for the director to help bring about education reform through a variety of approaches, including bridging the cultural differences between rural communities and the public education system.

"The goal is to help students in rural Alaska be academically successful," said Alaska Education Commissioner Larry LeDoux. "The position reflects the state's philosophy of valuing public schools and formal education and, at the same time, valuing Alaska's diverse cultures and the rural ways of life and knowledge. When we blend these, we have strong schools that belong to their communities." 

The director will build the capacity of the department, school districts and rural communities to meet the academic needs of rural students. The fundamental task is to engage communities in their schools and to assist educators in working with the communities. It is a hands-on, community-level position. 

The director will work with local school boards and schools; parents, elders and other community members; Native and rural government and service agencies; the University of Alaska and other universities and research entities; and other resources for schools in rural communities.

"The director will be an integral part of the department's team that works for comprehensive improvement in low-performing schools,"