Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday continued her celebration of Public Schools Week by releasing a video featuring students who attended her final State of the State address as special guests.
The students attend Booker T. Washington K-8 School in Birmingham, a Turnaround School Ivey recognized during her address for significant academic improvement. Washington K-8 improved from a “D” to a “B” on the state’s report card, reflecting accelerated growth through the Turnaround Schools initiative.
During her 2026 state of the state address, Ivey highlighted the initiative’s success and recognized the Washington K-8 students in attendance.
“On this occasion a couple years ago, I declared we would have no more failing elementary schools in Alabama. The Turnaround Schools initiative is making that a reality by producing accelerated growth in the state’s most challenged classrooms,” Ivey said.
“Y’all…these schools are improving at twice the statewide rate. Now, we will work toward graduating these successful schools to make room for a new cohort. We must keep funding this proven initiative.
“Here with us this evening are students from one of those successful Turnaround Schools. Washington K-8 School in Birmingham moved from a ‘D’ on the state’s report card all the way to a ‘B.’ That’s because of these students here. Boys and girls, please stand and let us recognize you.
“Ladies and gentlemen, these young people—future generations—they are why we serve.”
