Birmingham, AL – Governor Kay Ivey received the long-awaited report from the Governor’s Commission on Teaching and Learning during her appearance at the Alabama Association of School Boards Convention in Birmingham. The report’s unveiling was met with pride and optimism by the Governor, who emphasized education as her foremost priority.
“Improving education has been an unyielding commitment since my Inaugural Address,” stated Governor Ivey, visibly pleased with the progress. “Today, I stand proud of the strides we’ve taken. Our focus on education has led us on an incredible journey of transformation.”
In her address, the Governor highlighted the meticulous work done by the Commission across four crucial domains: quality teaching and learning, support for high-poverty and low-performing schools, data collection and accountability, and bolstering educator recruitment, retention, and development in Alabama’s K-12 schools.
“These recommendations are more than just guidelines; they are a blueprint to elevate Alabama’s educational standards,” affirmed Governor Ivey. “Our aim is to position Alabama among the top 30 states on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), ensuring a future where opportunities abound and aspirations are nurtured.”
Established by Executive Order No. 730, the Governor’s Commission on Teaching and Learning was composed of a diverse group of experts. Their mission, culminating in a report of recommendations, was to enhance the quality of education in Alabama by December 1, 2023.
The Commission members include a wide range of education stakeholders, such as Dr. Joe Morton, President of the Business Education Alliance and former State Superintendent of Education, as the Chair, alongside educators, legislators, and representatives from parent-teacher associations.
During the Convention, Governor Ivey recognized Dr. Morton’s leadership, presenting him with a commendation for his stewardship of the group.
The report and recommendations offered by the Commission represent a significant step in what Governor Ivey calls her, “Ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Alabama, signaling a potential transformative era in the state’s educational landscape.”
