Curious about what students are learning? Alabama schools will post curriculum online

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Alabama parents are going to have more access to the topics their children are learning in the classroom.

This academic year, the state is pushing schools to be more transparent. In March 2024, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed the Parents Right to Know Act, requiring schools to post their curriculum online.

“You will be able to review your child’s textbook, any required readings for your children,” said Alabama Education Association Northern Region Manager William Tunnell.

The change is meant to create more transparency in education and allow parents to look at what is happening in the classroom.

Tunnell said parents have an opportunity to take a more active role in their student’s education.

“Any support parents can give to their teachers by seeing what the curriculum is and help with their student at home will only advantage the student and of course, that’s what we’re all here for,” Tunnell said.

For some parents, the posted content may also alleviate concerns about subjects taught in Alabama schools.

“It will be good for our parents to be able to see, as importantly what’s not being taught in the classroom,” Tunnell said.

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He said Alabama’s education policy is fairly conservative. School curriculum is often dictated at the state level and approved by individual school districts.

Tunnell said you will not see subjects that are inappropriate or above a student’s grade level taught in classrooms in the state.

The curriculum posted online will not include day-to-day assignments. If a parent is concerned about that kind of content, they will have to contact their child’s school directly.

This information will begin to be posted on school websites over the next few weeks. If your child’s school does not have a website, the curriculum will be posted by the district.

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