Help Wasilla High School replace its stadium lights
The stadium is operating at only 60% lighting capacity and the district is unable to fund repairs this year.
On behalf of Wasilla High School, I am reaching out to request your support for an urgent and impactful project at Veterans Memorial Stadium; our effort to restore and upgrade the lighting system that is essential to both safety and visibility during events.
Currently, the stadium is operating at only 60% lighting capacity, which compromises not only the quality of our evening eveants but also the safety of our athletes, officials and spectators. In order to fully restore lighting to proper standards, we are seeking monetary or in-kind donations toward the purchase of new light bundles.
The estimated cost for necessary materials is approximately $120,000, with labor costs still to be added, which has been estimated to be around $50,000. Given the potential for delays in shipping equipment to Alaska, it is our goal to raise these funds as quickly as possible so the project can move forward without impacting upcoming sports seasons.
This lighting upgrade has been on the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District’s deferred maintenance list for several years, but we were recently informed that no district funding will be available for this project during the 2025–2026 school year. As public education faces increasingly difficult decisions, including budget cuts, program reductions, and the loss of valued staff, we know that waiting for funding that may never come is not an option.
Wasilla High School proudly hosts three ASAA state tournament events, including:
- Division I & II Boys and Girls Soccer
- Division I Girls Flag Football
- Division III Football Championship Game
These events not only showcase student talent but also reflect our community’s pride and hospitality. Having a safe, well-lit stadium is essential for maintaining that standard of excellence.
We invite you to contribute in any way you can, whether through a financial donation or an in-kind donation of materials or services. Your support will directly enhance the safety and experience for thousands of students, families, and fans who gather at Veterans Memorial Stadium each year.
To learn more or to contribute, please contact me at stacia.rustad@matsuk12 or donate by going here. Every contribution brings us closer to our goal.
Thank you for supporting Wasilla High School and for helping us light the way forward together.
Sincerely,
Stacia D Rustad
WHS Activities Principal
