School Flexibility Act Heads To Senate

The School Flexibility Act is a piece of legislation that would allow schools to apply for waivers from regulations made by the state board of education.

After passing in the House and being approved by the Senate Education Committee, the bill could reach Governor Bentley's desk as early as Thursday. Republicans say it will be the best education reform this session and many superintendents across the state tend to agree. Dothan City School Superintendent Tim Wilder said this is something he's been waiting on for quite some time. "School superintendents have been asking for this for awhile and we finally have it within our reach and we're going to take full advantage of it," continued Wilder.

Superintendent Wilder said this will be a chance for districts to show some creativity and come up with ideas best suited for each school. "We've been able to flex some money here and there, but we want to be able to utilize money that's generated in Dothan for Dothan not what the state or legislators tell us we can use it for," explained Wilder.

Legislators have asked superintendents across the state to begin compiling ideas they would like to see implemented if the bill becomes law. Wilder said Dothan City Schools has a lot of ideas and they are continuing to brainstorm. "For example we're moving toward more technology in the classroom so can we use our money not only for textbooks, but for iPads or these personal devices? Can we have flexibility on when we start school and end school even if it's different in Mobile, Enterprise or Montgomery?" continued Wilder.

State Superintendent Tommy Bice is also in favor of the Flexibility Act.