Frequently asked questions about academics at GILA

What should students expect at GILA?

We have the highest academic requirements of any school district in the state of Alaska. Teachers receive training every summer from the school district. Students are expected to approach learning with enthusiasm and respect. More than 99 percent of our graduates have passed the Alaska High School Graduation Qualifying Test.

What are the requirements for graduation?

Students are required to take four years of math, science, social studies, and English and earn 26 credits. The classes are:

              • English, 4 credits.

              • Science, 4 credits.

              • Social studies, 4 credits.

              • Mathematics, 4 credits.

              • Computer science, 1 credit.

              • PE / Health, 2 credits.

              • Life skills, 1 credit.

              • Electives, 6 credits.

What’s the typical school day like at GILA?

Students start the day in the residential hall and head to the dining hall for breakfast. The menu includes eggs, sausage, yogurt, cereal, bagels, banana, fruit, breakfast burritos, and oatmeal, among other items.

The school doors open at 8 a.m.

 
There are four periods each day. Classes are scheduled every other day; four subjects are taught one day (the “A” day), and four different subjects are taught the next day (the “B” day).
The class schedule is:

• Period 1 – 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

• Period 2 – 10:35 a.m. to 12:05 a.m.

• Lunch – 12:05 p.m. – 12:40 p.m.

• Period 3 – 12:45 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.

• Period 4 – 2:20 p.m. to 3:50 p.m.

 
Students often meet with teachers after school to make up assignments or to receive assistance with projects and schoolwork. Dinner is served at the dining hall at 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. Afterwards, students go to the residence hall, where there the staff organizes study time, games, and activities.   

What’s the average size of a GILA class?

 We aim for a student-teacher ratio of 12-15 students for each teacher in each class. The maximum number of students we aim for in any class is 18 students.  

What kind of counseling services are available at GILA? 

There are three counselors available for students – one at the GILA campus, one at the Sidney C. Huntington School campus, and one in the residential hall. In addition, counselors are also available as needed at the community health center.  

What kind of health services are available at GILA? 

There is a clinic in Galena with regular and emergency services for all students and residents of the community.