Alabama Reviewed Exploring Computer Science Curriculum Status
State officials are reevaluating the high school course amid calls to discontinue the program from state lawmakers.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Secondary Education
Live Poll
Should local schools include discussions of social identity topics in computer science curricula?
Alabama Superintendent Eric Mackey addressed the future of the Exploring Computer Science curriculum following requests from state lawmakers to drop the program. The year-long course is currently one of four options available to students in grades 9-10 to meet mandatory graduation requirements.
Why it matters
The review reflects the state department efforts to balance mandatory computer literacy goals with a desire to minimize classroom division. This evaluation process directly impacts how schools meet the state graduation mandate and integrate broader artificial intelligence standards.
The Exploring Computer Science curriculum is a year-long program serving students in grades 9-10. It is one of four state-approved programs currently evaluated by the governor-appointed advisory council.
The players
Eric Mackey
The Alabama Superintendent of Education who oversees the implementation of curriculum standards across state schools.
Tuskegee University
The historic Alabama institution that serves as the origin point for the Exploring Computer Science program.
The details
The Alabama State Department of Education works with a governor-appointed advisory council to curate computer science coursework. This process includes oversight of curriculum origin, such as the program developed at Tuskegee University, to ensure it meets state mandates for computer literacy and artificial intelligence standards for grades 1 through 12. Funding for these programs is managed through the state legislative process.
Timeline
October 8, 2026: Superintendent Eric Mackey discussed the curriculum review process.
The Home Front
The state department manages this curriculum review to ensure alignment with the Alabama requirement that all students take a computer science course to graduate. Ongoing adjustments to these standards reflect the state push to integrate artificial intelligence education into grades 1 through 12.
Parents of students in grades 9-10 should verify which specific computer science course their child is enrolled in this year. Keep an eye on school communications for updates regarding potential changes to graduation credit requirements or curriculum availability in the coming semesters.
The takeaway
The state is currently balancing curriculum selection with a focus on avoiding material that may cause division in classrooms. Families should monitor the state department of education updates to confirm if their high school course load remains compliant with graduation mandates.
Further reading
Learn more about local academic requirements in the Secondary Education section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 1819 News.
Live Poll
Should local schools include discussions of social identity topics in computer science curricula?
