The K-12 Technology and Cybersecurity Leadership Act aims to strengthen technology leadership in Alabama's public K-12 education system by renaming the "technology coordinator" position to "technology director." This role must now be filled by a local board of education employee on a 12-month contract, rather than by a contractor or the local superintendent. The bill establishes minimum qualifications for technology directors, including relevant degrees or certifications, and introduces a waiver process for school systems unable to find qualified candidates. Additionally, it requires technology directors to complete a training program and ongoing education through the Alabama Leaders in Educational Technology.

The bill also revises the K-12 Capital Grant Program Fund, mandating that any unused grant funds be returned to the state under specific conditions, while allowing grant funds to be used for paying off existing debt. It permits grant recipients to amend their proposals to ensure full utilization of funds and changes the criteria for evaluating grant proposals and the maximum grant amount. The bill emphasizes support for at-risk student populations and requires entities receiving grant funds to submit compliance reports within a year. It repeals the Distressed Institutions of Higher Education Revolving Loan Program, transferring any remaining funds to the Education Trust Fund, and establishes that the bill's provisions will take effect on July 1, 2024, with some sections effective immediately.

Statutes affected:
Enrolled: 29-4-51, 16-65A-1, 16-65A-7, 29-4-51