In this episode of ASD Shine Bright, we talk with Service High senior Sophia Downie, Alaska Public Media journalist Annie Feidt, and ASD’s Shannon Donley about the impact of the ASD Gifted Mentorship Program.

Through her mentorship in public radio, Sophia gained real-world work experience—learning firsthand what it’s like to research, report, and tell meaningful stories alongside a professional journalist.

Her experience is a powerful example of how the Gifted Mentorship Program pairs motivated juniors and seniors with experts in fields they’re passionate about, turning advanced coursework into authentic, hands-on learning.

This program directly supports the School Board’s goal of College, Career, and Life Readiness by helping students build professional skills, explore career paths, and gain confidence in real workplace settings before graduation.

👉 Learn more about Sophia’s work and read one of her stories here: https://alaskapublic.org/news/education/2025-11-25/playing-it-forward-anchorage-musicians-gift-transforms-high-school-orchestra

We’re celebrating the 50th episode of ASD Shine Bright!

This week, we talk with Dimond High sophomores and Assistant Principal Tarna Armstrong about how the school is supporting its “phenomenal freshmen” through ASD’s College, Career & Life Readiness goals.

Hear how academy coaches, community partnerships, and specialized programs like Migrant Ed, Indigenous Ed, and ELL are helping students stay on track to graduate — boosting attendance, GPA, and engagement as they move into sophomore year.

Tune in for inspiring stories of growth, success, and students who truly shine!

In this episode of ASD Shine Bright, meet Malia Rodriguez and Devin McFarland from Bartlett High School — proud members of the ASD Story Squad, our student communications fellows who capture and share the stories that make our schools shine!

Hear Malia and Devin talk about Bartlett’s strong culture of community and how it helps them, and their peers, thrive every single day 💙💛