The Alabama State Board of Education on Thursday approved a $6.8 billion budget request for the fiscal year 2028, representing a 4% increase over the current year’s funding. This comprehensive request, which must receive final approval from the Alabama Legislature, targets crucial areas including support for struggling readers beyond third grade, school breakfast programs, and student transportation.
For residents in Dothan and across the Wiregrass, these funds directly impact the quality of public K-12 education and postsecondary institutions. The FY28 budget is slated to take effect on October 1 of next year, shaping educational services statewide.
The Alabama State Department of Education’s request for the current fiscal year (FY27) totaled $6.59 billion, ultimately receiving $6.58 billion from the Education Trust Fund (ETF). The newly approved $6.8 billion proposal is the largest single component of the state’s ETF, which funds all public K-12 and postsecondary education in Alabama. The ETF's total budget for this year stands at $10.4 billion.
A key focus of the proposed budget is an allocation of $45 million for the “Struggling Readers Beyond Grade 3” program. This initiative aims to bolster literacy for students past the foundational third-grade level. The State Department of Education had sought funding for this program in the FY27 ETF but did not receive any appropriation. Alabama State School Superintendent Eric Mackey emphasized the importance of this program during the meeting, stating the goal is to ensure students remain on or above grade level through eighth grade, preparing them for high school courses.
Beyond literacy, the budget request includes significant increases for supporting local education agencies. A $56.1 million increase, or 9%, is sought for the transportation program. Superintendent Mackey noted at a previous board meeting that this increase is necessary to help offset rising costs faced by bus drivers, such as escalating diesel prices, which impact daily routes for students across Dothan and surrounding communities. Additionally, a $2.4 million increase, a 20% jump, has been requested for parental leave initiatives.
Maintaining existing support for other vital programs also remains a priority. The department is seeking to maintain $58 million for the RAISE Act, which aims to implement a needs-based funding model for K-12 schools. This appropriation would remain consistent with FY27 levels. The RAISE Act is designed to direct additional resources to specific populations, including rural students, students experiencing poverty, and English Language Learners, ensuring equitable access to education statewide.
However, the prospect of securing the full requested amount faces challenges. Superintendent Mackey indicated that funding is expected to be tight for the upcoming year, attributed partly to health insurance pressures and uncertainties, alongside fluctuating tax revenues. While acknowledging the potential for a reduced allocation, Mackey stated he anticipates working closely with the new governor's office and the Legislature on the final budget figure. He expressed confidence that the department is "making a good case for why that needs to continue to grow,” particularly referencing the request for struggling readers.
