Education Policy

HB 520 creates a streamlined process for career and technical education (CTE) teachers moving to Alabama from another state to obtain Alabama teaching certification without additional testing or coursework. To qualify, applicants must hold a valid out-of-state CTE teaching certificate, submit an application with fees, secure a local superintendent's recommendation, and pass a background check. Once approved, Alabama's State Superintendent of Education must issue the certification promptly for CTE courses only, with no extra requirements. The bill also requires annual reporting on certificate issuance, school placements, and program effectiveness to the Governor and legislature.

HB 75 requires Alabama public high schools to excuse students from class during instructional time for organized National Signing Day events related to athletic scholarships, college commitments, apprenticeships, or military enlistment. The bill directly affects high school students participating in these specific opportunities, ensuring they can attend without academic penalties. Schools must provide reasonable accommodations like meeting spaces with internet access for these activities. The law would take effect on October 1, 2026, if passed.

HB 8 allows local school boards and public charter school governing bodies to vote on whether to permit volunteer campus chaplains in Alabama public K-12 schools starting in the 2025-2026 school year. If approved, schools may offer chaplain services at a teacher's request, but volunteers must complete recognized training and pass a background check. The bill prohibits individuals convicted of sex offenses requiring registration from serving as chaplains. This policy change takes effect July 1, 2026, and applies to all public K-12 schools and charter schools in Alabama.

SB 211 expands sick leave options for public education employees in Alabama. It allows direct sick leave donations between employees at different schools or institutions (like K-12 districts and public colleges), removes limits on how much extended medical leave an employee can donate, and requires the State Board of Education to create a model policy for this. All public education authorities (including local school boards and colleges) must adopt this policy, including provisions for sick leave banks and direct donations. The bill affects teachers, support staff, and administrators working in Alabama’s public education system.

HB 329 requires all Alabama public K-12 students to complete an approved computer science course to graduate, starting with the 2032 graduating class. The bill expands the definition of computer science to include AI and algorithmic processes, and establishes standards for approved courses that must focus on creating technology, not just using it. Approved computer science credits can count toward math, science, or career education graduation requirements without increasing the total credit count. School districts must implement phased course offerings: high schools by 2020-2021, middle schools by 2021-2022, and elementary schools by 2022-2023. The State Department of Education will develop course standards and maintain an approved course list.