About Tułen Charter School
A groundbreaking public charter school in Kenai, Alaska where traditional Dena'ina culture, environmental stewardship, and academic excellence come together.
Guiding Young Learners Along the Stream of Knowledge
Officially approved by the Alaska State Board of Education in March 2025 and launched in August 2025, Tułen Charter School provides a rigorous K-4 elementary education rooted in the Dena'ina Athabascan language, culture, and values of the Kenai Peninsula.
The word Tułen is Outer Inlet Dena'ina meaning "the river will flow" or "the current is flowing." Just as the salmon river sustains life across Alaska, Tułen Charter School nurtures curiosity, resilience, literacy, and community stewardship in every child.
Our Mission
To foster academic excellence, cultural identity, self-confidence, and environmental stewardship for all K-4 students through place-based learning.
Our Vision
A vibrant educational community where Dena'ina heritage inspires lifelong curiosity, respect for land, and strong elementary academic mastery.
A Landmark Partnership
Tułen Charter School is created through a collaborative agreement between the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District and the Kenaitze Indian Tribe.
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
As an official public charter school within KPBSD, Tułen adheres to Alaska State Academic Standards, offering certified teachers, state literacy assessments, special education support, and tuition-free public enrollment.
- ✓ Alaska State Accredited K-4 Standards
- ✓ Certified KPBSD Elementary Teachers
- ✓ District Special Education & Speech Support
Kenaitze Indian Tribe Partnership
Hosted at the Tribe’s modern Kahtnuht’ana Duhdeldiht campus, the Kenaitze Indian Tribe provides cultural educators, Elders-in-Residence, subsistence gear, traditional language instruction, and wraparound family support.
- ✓ Outer Inlet Dena'ina Language Instruction
- ✓ Elders Storytelling & Cultural Circles
- ✓ Kahtnuht’ana Campus Facilities & Land Access
Our Guiding Dena'ina Core Values
These traditional values form the moral and behavioral framework of our school community every day.
Ch'anq'u (Respect)
Respect for self, teachers, classmates, Elders, and the living environment. Practicing kindness and listening with an open heart.
K’echan (Stewardship)
Caring for the river, wildlife, land, and community resources. Leaving things cleaner and better for future generations.
Naghełt’ana (Unity)
Working together as one family. Honoring diverse backgrounds, helping fellow students, and celebrating shared progress.