Welcome to Paul T. Albert Memorial School (PTAMS)—a K–12 bilingual learning community in Tununak on Nelson Island, Alaska. Since 1978, PTAMS has served as both school and gathering place, hosting cultural celebrations, community events, and inter-village activities that strengthen connections across the region.

Our school is named for Paul T. Albert, a respected leader whose legacy of service, connection, and resilience continues to inspire us. We honor that legacy by centering Yuuyaraq (the Yup’ik way of life) in daily learning and school culture.

PTAMS pairs strong academics with bilingual/biliterate education in Yugtun and English. From kindergarten through sixth grade, students learn core subjects in both languages. In grades seven through twelve, students continue to live out Yup’ik values—respect, perseverance, generosity, and harmony with the land and sea—while building the academic, technical, and life skills needed for success in college, careers, and subsistence life.

We are proud to be a school where families, elders, and community members are partners in learning. Together we create a safe, welcoming environment where every student is known, supported, and challenged to grow.

Whether you are visiting, enrolling, or returning home to PTAMS, welcome—where learning is rooted in culture, strengthened by community, and guided by tradition.

Mission

Vision

Core Values

• Yuuyaraq & Cultural Pride – We honor our language, traditions, and elders.

• Biliteracy & Scholarship – We learn in Yugtun and English.

• Safety & Belonging – We care for one another; every student is known.

• Perseverance & Excellence – We set high expectations and grow every day.

• Service & Stewardship – We contribute to family, village, and the land.