Montgomery, AL – Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has signed Senate Bill 48, commonly referred to as the ‘parental right to know’ bill, into law. The legislation, sponsored by Pro Tem Greg Reed, aims to enhance parental involvement in their children’s education by providing greater transparency regarding school curricula.
Governor Ivey emphasized the importance of parental engagement in students’ academic journey, stating, “Parents’ involvement is critical in a student’s education, and in Alabama, we know that nobody knows what is best for their children than our moms and dads.”
Under the new law, teachers at public pre-K-12 schools will be required to post their curricula on their school’s website, allowing parents and guardians easy access to view the educational materials being taught. Additionally, the legislation mandates a process for parents and guardians to question or lodge complaints about the curricula, with provisions for requesting meetings with teachers to discuss their concerns.
Proponents of the bill assert that it promotes transparency and strengthens the partnership between parents and educators. However, some critics have expressed reservations about potential logistical challenges and the implications for teachers’ autonomy.
