The article cited was from a quick g-search and would likely prove adequate bolstering a point in this forum.  

My conclusion, though anecdotal, was drawn from a my own family.  A number of children were homeschooled (no affiliation with any Alaska District or religious entity) the remainder attended Alaska K-12 ASD.  Mixed race if it matters.  

The results were night and day.  An ASD enrollee was an early honors student.  Great group of academically inclined friends.  EVERY ONE struggled during their first year at a number of well regarded institutions...up to and including Service Academies, Colorado School of Mines...etc.  

On the other hand, the child enrolled in an online curriculum (unaffiliated with state/religion) received an excellent foundation to learn.  This graduate level student was even impressed.  

Deny all you want. In my opinion, with what we currently spend, Alaska could provide a world-class education sans 50% of current teaching staff/infrastructure.