Section 16-6A-9 Development of Plan for Improving Courses in Critical Needs Areas.

(a) The State Board of Education shall develop and establish a comprehensive plan for improving courses in science, mathematics, computer education and other critical needs areas. In developing such plan, the superintendent shall consult with teacher organizations, school personnel, legislative leaders, the Governor’s office, representatives from private industry, public and private higher education and from the fields of education, mathematics, science and computer education. Such program shall be divided into three phases with the first phase being introduced at the beginning of the 1985-1986 school year and another phase to begin each of the following two years. The entire program should be operative at the end of three years. (b) The comprehensive plan shall provide a framework for the preparation and approval of programs, provide direction for program development and shall include the following provisions: (1) Identification of curricular goals and expected outcomes; (2) Preparation of instructional materials lists; (3) Development of descriptions and cost estimates for providing curricular development, laboratories, equipment, supplies and facilities to implement programs for improvement in school systems or individual schools; (4) Development of recommended course content to satisfy the new requirements for high school graduation. Consideration shall be given to student goals and needs; (5) Development of a plan for continuous monitoring and evaluation of the programs, including classroom instructional needs as identified by teachers; and (6) Solicitation of proposals and funding those programs that meet high standards of excellence.