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SB 364

Public K-12 education; violence prevention, conflict resolution, and mediation instruction required before graduation from high school beginning in sixth grade, State Board of Education required to adopt standards

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rodger Smitherman

Alabama mandates violence prevention and conflict resolution instruction for all students grades 6-12 before graduation, requiring state curriculum standards.

Enacted
#education
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Bill Summary · SB 364

Legislative bill overview

SB 364 requires Alabama public K-12 schools to implement mandatory instruction in violence prevention, conflict resolution, and mediation beginning in sixth grade, with completion required before high school graduation. The State Board of Education must adopt standards and curriculum guidelines for this instruction.

Why is this important

Violence and bullying in schools remain documented public health concerns affecting student safety and academic outcomes. Teaching conflict resolution skills early may reduce disciplinary incidents and provide students with practical tools for managing disagreements peacefully, though effectiveness depends heavily on implementation quality and teacher training.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum crowding: Adding mandatory instruction requires either replacing existing courses or extending instructional time, raising concerns about competing priorities and academic standards coverage
  • Implementation costs: Teacher training, curriculum development, and materials require funding; unclear whether the state will provide adequate resources or place costs on school districts
  • Standardization challenges: The State Board must develop standards that work across diverse communities and age groups (grades 6-12), with risk that one-size-fits-all approach may not address local needs effectively

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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