Alabama Department of Education

This document outlines the revisions and updates for the 2026 Alabama Course of Study: World Languages. The plan's driving goals include aligning world language education with Alabama's education and workforce visions, strengthening student readiness for various post-secondary pathways, and expanding access to language learning through initiatives like the Seal of Biliteracy and age-appropriate standards. It emphasizes a shift to proficiency-based communication, focusing on the 5Cs (communication, cultures, connections, comparisons, communities) and developing comprehensive literacy and cultural competence using research-based acquisition practices.

The board focused on several commendations and recognitions, including awards for the 2025-2026 Elementary, High School, and Middle School Physical Education Teachers of the Year, the 2025-2026 Health Educator of the Year, and the National Milken Educator Award recipient. The meeting also addressed the designation of the 2026 Alabama Purple Star Schools and proclaimed April 15, 2026, as Purple Up Day. Additionally, the board recognized Pell City High School for its 2025 ACT American College Application Campaign achievement, named the Barbara Fannin Memorial Employee of the Quarter, and designated April 2026 as School Library Month. The board announced an intent to repeal and replace administrative code pertaining to teacher certification, and the State Superintendent provided a report covering legislative impacts, budget updates, reading proficiency programs, and progress in computer science and artificial intelligence integration.

The board meeting and work session focused on several key action and discussion items. These included resolutions commending various teachers of the year and district teachers of the year, as well as recognizing school systems for performance on the state report card. Other items involved honoring a Green Ribbon Schools nominee and recognizing the Grow Our Own initiative. The work session covered discussions on college and career readiness and graduation rates, state-level reading impact data, a presentation on business software applications, the appointment of a state textbook committee for digital literacy, and modifications to Praxis assessments for initial certification.

The Board meeting included a public hearing regarding textbook adoptions for K-12 Social Studies. Key actions taken included the adoption of the 2026 Comprehensive School Counseling Program Model for Alabama Public Schools, the appointment of members to the Energy and Natural Resources State Course of Study Committee, and the confirmation of nominations for two open positions on the Alabama School of Fine Arts Board of Trustees. Additionally, the Board ratified recommendations from the State Textbook Committee concerning the adoption of textbooks for both Arts Education and Social Studies.

This document outlines the 2026 Comprehensive School Counseling Program Model for Alabama Public Schools, a research-based framework designed to provide effective school counseling programs. It focuses on three core domains: academic, career, and foundational wellness development for K-12 students. The model emphasizes a systematic approach through its foundation, delivery, management, and program accountability components, aiming to equip students with necessary knowledge and skills for future success and fostering collaborative partnerships among stakeholders.