Alabama tried something different – and its education results are improving

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February 11, 2026

Alabama’s reading and math performance is improving, and even outlets like The New York Times are taking notice.

The state made changes that broke from traditional education approaches, and early results are strong enough that other states are now being urged to follow similar models.

This video looks at what Alabama changed, why it worked, and why the national education conversation may be shifting because of it.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

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