At
the May 20, 2009 School Board meeting, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough
School District School Board unanimously chose the new name for the new
elementary school--the Fred and Sara Machetanz Elementary School. School
Board President Jim Colver said, “I am very pleased and proud the
School Board named the new school in recognition of two, talented local
artists, Fred and Sara Machetanz. Both Fred and Sara made significant
contributions to our state, including writing children’s books and
participating in Disney movies about Alaska which helped educate a
generation of American Children about Alaska and undoubtedly helped
with the drive for statehood. Fred Machetanz is recognized as one of
the top Alaskan artists of the last century.” Colver added, “The
Machetanzes were very supportive and involved in Valley schools. Naming
the school with a beautiful vista of Pioneer Peak is a fitting tribute
to them.”
The
naming committee included educators, community members, and parents.
Looking at several names, the committee considered the contributions of
the Machetanzes, their long heritage in the Valley, and the lasting
impact this couple had on their community. When Where Else But Alaska was published in 1954, the story of the adventures of the pair came to life.
