AL HB125

Creates the Alabama Longitudinal Data System to match and track student information from early learning through postsecondary education and into employment, with the goal of generating deidentified data to enhance education and guide decision-makers.

Establishes the Alabama Office of Education and Workforce Statistics as a separate division under the Department of Labor, headed by a Chief Policy Officer appointed by the Governor, to develop, operate, and maintain the data system.

Creates an advisory board with representatives from state education agencies, higher education institutions, workforce development, commerce, and private industry to oversee system governance and establish research goals.

Requires strict protection of student privacy through statewide governance policies complying with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and state cyber security policies, with restrictions on access to personally identifying information and prohibitions on releasing non-deidentified data.

Mandates the system report to the Governor and Legislature by August 30, 2016, and be fully operational by May 30, 2017; requires State Board of Education, Alabama Community College System Board, and Commission on Higher Education to jointly define remediation standards by December 31, 2016.