ABC Elementary in Alberta recognized by Gov. Ivey in State of the State Address

Wilcox County’s ABC Elementary in Alberta sent their fourth-grade class to Gov. Kay Ivey’s State of the State Address on Tuesday in Montgomery.

The school was recognized by the governor as one of the state’s 15 Turnaround Schools and having the highest reading gains in the state last year.

“I believe in every single one of our students in Alabama, and when you set the bar high for them, these boys and girls can reach their fullest potential,” Ivey said. “The progress being made at ABC Elementary can certainly be credited to our Turnaround Schools Initiative, as well as these students here tonight, their classmates back home, their parents and their teachers. We must double-down on the success of our Turnaround Schools Initiative.” 

The governor pointed to her Commission on Teaching and Learning program that provided a report that will serve as a blueprint for improving student outcomes over the next three years. It includes a recommendation to fully fund both the Numeracy and Literacy Acts. 

“Our teachers are being trained in the science of math and reading, and we are preparing them not only to teach our kids today, but also of the future,” she said. “All the work we have done through the Numeracy and Literacy Acts is critical to our success.”

She added that ensuring students are proficient readers and ready for the next grade is critical. 

“And these Wilcox County kids have proven when the right resources and curriculum are in place, they can do it!” Ivey said.

Ivey said the state invested an historic amount in public schools each year during her term giving the state the largest Education Trust Fund in history. 

She also wants Alabama to have the highest starting salary for teachers among neighboring states and wants that accomplished in the Legislative Session that starts this week.

“Improving our state’s education system is a process, and we have to meet the needs of all students,” she said. “As governor, I realize the way to do that is to make sure there are opportunities available for our children.”