Schools are places or systems for learning or education and may be physical locations composed of a building or a campus that includes multiple buildings. Schools may also be virtual or online institutions that offer educational experiences and degrees. Schools are usually physical locations for children in grades 1-12, as well as kindergarten and pre-kindergarten (pre-K) classes.

In Alabama, schools are regulated by both state statutes and federal law. The Alabama State Department of Education oversees the public education system, which includes grades K-12. Public schools are required to provide free education to all children in the state. This includes traditional brick-and-mortar schools as well as public charter schools. Alabama also has regulations for private schools, which must comply with certain legal requirements but have more flexibility in their curricula. Additionally, the state has provisions for homeschooling, allowing parents to educate their children at home under certain conditions. Virtual or online schools are also available and must be accredited to confer valid educational degrees. These online institutions can serve as an alternative to traditional in-person education, offering courses that align with state educational standards. Federal laws, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), also apply to Alabama schools, ensuring that all children, including those with disabilities, have access to education.