ISER's inaugural newsletter is here!

The fall issue of ISER News shows that work in action: Read about the ISER data that helped reshape school lunches for the Anchorage School District, Dr. Spencer Perry's research on aging and cognitive decline, and the Center for Economic Development's work with the Anchorage Fire Department to evaluate funding models for wildfire prevention.

Read the fall issue for these stories and more.

Ever wonder what happens inside a glacier? Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 8 for a talk on glacier caves, some of the most dynamic and least documented features of glacier systems. Research shows they can form, evolve, and even disappear within short periods of time! 

Since Anchorage School District (ASD) began rolling out its new school lunch model four years ago, elementary students have been eating 31% more of their entrées and 29% more vegetables, according to data collected by a team based at ISER and the Center for Behavioral Health Research and Services. 

The benefits extend beyond lunchtime: national research indicates school lunch participation improves academic outcomes equal to about two months of additional learning within a school year.

Are you familiar with the wildfire mitigation strategies in your city? In Anchorage, certain techniques known as fuel treatments have helped reduce fire risk.

In November 2025, Mayor Suzanne LaFrance briefly introduced a 3% sales tax proposal to the Anchorage Assembly.  ISER researchers examined the implications and outcomes of the proposal, identifying several key conclusions: