Alabama State Board of Education adopts new science course of study and honors educators

The Alabama State Board of Education convened on December 14, 2023, to address several key agenda items, including the adoption of educational standards and recognition of outstanding educators. The meeting commenced with an invocation by Father Manuel Williams, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call, confirming a quorum.

The board approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting without opposition. Public comments were then invited, with two speakers addressing the board. Mona Dominguez, representing the Alabama Water Watch program, expressed support for the adoption of the Alabama Course of Study for Science, highlighting its importance in fostering scientific literacy among students. Toni Brunner, Executive Director of the Alabama Educators Association, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the revised science standards and the need for educators to be trusted to meet students' learning needs.

Following public comments, the board moved to unfinished business, adopting administrative code changes related to charter schools, ensuring local school boards retain oversight of conversion charter schools. The board also recognized educator Corey Cunningham from John Herbert Phillips Academy for receiving the prestigious Milken Educator Award and honored Saraland Elementary School and Vernon Elementary School as national ESEA distinguished schools.

The board declared December 2023 as Computer Science Education Week, acknowledging Alabama's leadership in computer science education. A significant resolution was passed to adopt the new science education course of study, which had undergone extensive review and collaboration over the past year. The board also approved updates to career and technical education standards and textbooks, ensuring alignment with current educational needs.

In concluding the meeting, the board appointed committees for the fine arts and social studies course of study, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement in educational standards. The meeting highlighted the board's commitment to enhancing educational quality and recognizing the achievements of educators and schools across Alabama.