Karen Anderson

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.

This document outlines the strategic plan, 'Alabama Achieves,' for the Alabama State Department of Education. It is structured around five key focus areas: Academic Growth & Achievement, College, Career, & Workforce Readiness, Safe and Supportive Learning Environments, Highly Effective Educators, and Engagement. The plan's ultimate goal is to ensure every child is afforded every chance to succeed and is prepared to become a productive, responsible citizen.

The regular meeting addressed numerous resolutions for recognition and distinguished commendation. Key actions included recognizing schools for Legislative School Performance Program awards (Top 25 Percent and Most Improved), honoring five schools nominated for the 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools Award, recognizing Kimberly Jones as the 2026 Alabama School Counselor of the Year, and commending various school systems for top performance awards based on ACAP assessment scores (Mountain Brook City School System and Houston County School System). The Board also recognized the 2025-2026 Alabama Teacher of the Year finalist, Katie Collins, and proclaimed February 2026 as Alabama School Counseling Month and March 2026 as Arts Education Month. Additionally, the Board honored the winners of the 2026 State Superintendent's Visual Arts Exhibit and designated March 2-6, 2026, as National School Breakfast Week. The State Superintendent reported on the progress of the Science of Reading initiative and noted the regional momentum in academic achievement.