Kasigluk - Akiuk

 Photos: Community School

Who flies there, and how much does it cost?

Hagelands, Craig Air, Yute, PenAir. About $45 for the mail run and $105 or so for a 172 (three-seater) charter.

When you reach your site, how do you get from the airport to your home?

Upon arriving at the airport you will need to travel by boat to reach your home and school. The school owns a boat and if you let them know when you are arriving someone will meet you and take you across the river. The school phone number is 907-477-6829. Call to let them know you’re coming. Then call from the airport right before you leave.

How big is the village? (Geographic makeup-along a river, slough, coast? Tundra, muddy, hills, cliffs? Etc.)

600 people in Kasigluk. The village  is served by two K-12 schools. Akiuk is located in the Old Village. There are approximately 200 people who live in the Old Village.  Akula serves the newer side of the community.

What’s the weather like, and what is it like in August?

The weather will be pleasant. You will arrive during the rainy season, the chance of drizzle is high. You should also be prepared for “no-see-ums” - a high quality bug repellent is recommended.

How many students in school?

60

How many teachers?

6

Describe the housing (i.e., running water? honey buckets?)

Housing is in good shape. The old BIA has one good apartment and one way small and one way big. Running water etc. plus asbestos if you put a hole in the wall. A village owned duploex is also used for teacher housing. It does not have running water or sewer.

Stores? Are they well stocked or do you order?

Two corporation stores provide a variety of items, from canned and packaged foods to hardware supplies. The smaller of the two is located on the Akiuk side of the river. The larger store has some fresh produce available most of the year, as well as some dairy products. These are in supply with regularity, but there can be periods of up to a few weeks where the shelves are mostly bare. You would be advised to order your food in bulk due to the unsure availability and cost at the local stores. If you set up a charge account you will be given a 10% discount if you pay your bill in a timely manner.

If you order, who do you recommend?

Most of us use SAM's Club, Fred Meyers, or K-Mart

Swanson’s and AC will send orders to the village. You can call the stores and place your order. They will take it to the air carrier of your choice. You’ll do best if you know of someone flying to the village, and have your order delivered  to fly with them. That way you can avoid the shipping charge.

What should a new teacher bring?

Towels, soap, shampoo, pots and pans, dishes, silverware, water jugs (water barrels are provided), bug spray, candles, sheets, TV (cable is available for $50 a month), phone, food (ship in or order once you arrive), rain gear, rubber boots, jackets, any personal medicines (there is no pharmacy here), matches, materials for hobbies, and games.