Applauding the Alabama Legislature’s recent efforts to fully fund educators: op-ed

This is a guest opinion column

Throughout May, Alabama took time to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Month, shining a well-deserved spotlight on the dedicated professionals who shape the future of our state. From the classroom teachers fostering a love of learning to the bus drivers, cafeteria staff, and administrators who keep school communities running, public education is a collective effort powered by those who believe in our students.

Celebrating Measurable Progress

This year, there is significant cause for celebration. Over the last several years, Alabama has achieved meaningful, measurable success in education. These improvements—ranging from higher student achievement to expanded workforce pathways—are the result of educators showing up for students and state leaders in Montgomery choosing collaboration over division. When Republicans and Democrats unite to support our schools, our entire state benefits.

At the Alabama Education Association, we know that every adult in a school building is vital to a child’s success. A student cannot thrive without safe transportation, nutritious meals, clean environments, and supportive leadership. It is a team sport, and recent state investments are reflecting that reality.

A Record of Growth

Governor Kay Ivey recently highlighted the remarkable turnaround in Alabama schools. In 2017, the state ranked 52nd in fourth-grade math and 49th in reading nationally. Today, those numbers have surged to 32nd and 34th, respectively, with Alabama leading the nation in math recovery and ranking third in reading recovery. Furthermore, the high school graduation rate has reached 92%, while the College and Career Readiness Rate has hit a record 88%.

These gains are directly tied to sustained investment and policy efforts. Under Governor Ivey’s administration, teachers have seen pay increases totaling nearly 20%, a vital step in attracting and retaining top-tier talent. By prioritizing literacy, numeracy, and workforce development, lawmakers have demonstrated that putting students at the center of the conversation yields results.

Building a Brighter Future

Appreciation for our educators must be backed by consistent action. Beyond a simple thank you, our school staff deserves competitive pay, safe working conditions, and the modern resources required to do their jobs effectively. Investing in our schools is, at its core, an investment in Alabama’s future prosperity, as strong schools are the primary indicator for families and businesses considering their future in our state.

As Teacher Appreciation Month concludes, I encourage all Alabamians to recognize the mentors, role models, and public servants who make our schools successful. Because of the continued cooperation between educators, families, and legislators, Alabama’s best days in education are still ahead of us.

Amy Marlowe is the Executive Director of the Alabama Education Association.