Key Changes and Updates for the 2025-2026 School Year in North Alabama
As students across North Alabama prepare to return to school, several key changes and updates have been implemented to ensure a smooth start to the new academic year. These updates cover everything from school policies and schedules to supply lists and safety measures.
Colbert County Schools: Middle School Model Transition
One of the most significant changes in the Colbert County School System is the implementation of the "middle school model." This transition moves sixth graders into high schools, creating a more structured environment for middle school students. Superintendent Nathan Fuller explained that this model aims to provide a new level of separation between middle school and high school students by having separate classrooms and hallways. This change is intended to address challenges faced by middle school students and improve their learning experience.
In addition to this structural change, all students in Colbert County Schools will receive free breakfast and lunch for the 2025-2026 school year, thanks to the United States Department of Agriculture's support.
FOCUS Act Implementation
The FOCUS Act, which went into effect for the 2025-2026 school year, prohibits the use of wireless communication devices on school campuses during instructional hours. This means that cell phones, smartwatches, and other personal communication devices must be turned off and stored away from students' persons—either in lockers or vehicles—from the first bell until dismissal. There are limited exceptions, such as for students with individualized education plans (IEPs) or health plans, emergencies, or instructional purposes.
This policy applies to all public schools in Alabama, including schools like Colbert Heights High School, Colbert Heights Middle School, and Scottsboro City Schools. For example, at Scottsboro City Schools, students can bring devices to campus but must turn them off and store them in backpacks or locked cars. The school also introduced an asynchronous course to educate students on safe social media use.
School-Specific Updates
Each school in the district has its own set of updates and requirements:
- Colbert Heights High School and Colbert Heights Middle School both posted traffic information and updated drop-off times. Middle school doors open at 7:20 a.m., while high school doors open at 7:25 a.m.
- Colbert Heights Elementary School provided a traffic flow map for arrival and dismissal.
- Cherokee High School listed essential school supplies for students, including a $20 parking permit for drivers.
- Colbert County High School issued specific supply lists for each grade, with sixth-grade students not allowed to use ink pens or perfume.
- Hatton Elementary School received funding from Florence Federal Credit Union to purchase basic supplies and class shirts for all students.
- Leighton Elementary School announced a free after-school program for K-5 students, with transportation available from NBES to CHES.
- Scottsboro City Schools emphasized the importance of the LINQ Connect online tool for managing school meal accounts and introduced a Child Nutrition Plan offering free meals to all students.
Transportation and Safety Measures
Several schools have made changes to their transportation policies:
- Scottsboro High School opens doors at 7:45 a.m., with non-driving freshmen and sophomores dropped off in front of the school.
- Scottsboro Jr. High School requires students to be dropped off in the back of the building, with a tardy bell at 8:10 a.m.
- Lockers will not be issued at Scottsboro Jr. High School due to pandemic-era practices, requiring students to carry backpacks throughout the day.
Other schools, such as Huntsville City Schools, have outlined consequences for violating the FOCUS Act, including in-school learning centers and out-of-school suspensions. They also continue participation in the Community Eligibility Provision, providing free meals to all students.
Special Programs and Initiatives
Several schools have introduced new programs and initiatives:
- Rainbow Elementary School launched a House System to foster community values and engagement among students.
- Mt. Carmel Elementary School unveiled a new adaptive playground designed for all children, including those with disabilities.
- Madison County Schools emphasized the importance of clear backpacks and mesh bags for security reasons.
- Legacy Elementary School offered After School Care Spots and required clear backpacks to maintain a secure learning environment.
Back-to-School Supplies and Schedules
Schools across the region have provided detailed lists of required supplies, with some schools like Caldwell Elementary School and Nelson Primary School outlining specific dates and schedules for the first week of school.
Final Notes
As the 2025-2026 school year begins, students and families are encouraged to review the latest updates from their respective schools. From new policies and procedures to updated schedules and supply lists, these changes aim to create a safer, more organized, and supportive learning environment for all students.