By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — A new law signed by Governor Kay Ivey is bringing renewed attention to the role of history, faith, and education in Alabama classrooms.
Senate Bill 99, sponsored by Sen. Keith Kelley and Rep. Mark Gidley, requires certain public schools to display the Ten Commandments along with information explaining their historical significance. The displays will be funded through donations, not taxpayer dollars.
Governor Ivey framed the legislation as a way to connect students with foundational elements of American history. “The Ten Commandments—like the Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights—are critical to understanding the founding of our country,” Ivey said.
The law aligns with comments the governor made during her 2025 State of the State address, where she emphasized the importance of including key historical documents in classrooms as Alabama approaches the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Supporters say the measure promotes civic education and provides students with a broader understanding of historical influences on American law and values. However, the law is also expected to spark discussion across communities about the balance between education, religion, and public schools.
As the policy moves forward, school systems will determine how and where displays are placed, based on available donations.
For Alabama families, the conversation continues—highlighting the importance of education that informs, respects diverse perspectives, and prepares students for the future.