Education (Teachers)

This bill establishes the Alabama Balanced Instruction and Screen Use Act to limit screen-based instruction in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms. It defines screen-based instruction as delivering educational content primarily through digital devices like laptops or tablets instead of direct teacher-led instruction. The bill requires the State Board of Education to adopt standards for screen use, including regular vision breaks and compliance with privacy laws. An Elementary Instructional Technology Task Force will be established to review research on screen use and make recommendations annually until 2030. Exceptions are made for online high school courses, summer school, and brief technology use for formative assessments during teacher-led instruction.

HB 122 amends Alabama's TEAMS program to allow school districts to offer mathematics and science teachers with over 20 years of service (who meet advanced contract criteria) a contract for "up to five years" instead of requiring a mandatory five-year contract. This change, effective October 1, 2026, modifies Section 16-13-334(e) of the Alabama Code. The bill directly affects experienced math and science teachers participating in the TEAMS program who hold the required specialized certifications. It does not alter certification requirements or professional development rules but adjusts contract term flexibility for eligible veteran teachers.