FOIA Request to J. F. Drake State Community And Technical College regarding recent course syllabi on August 6, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted by the Huntsville Leader to J. F. Drake State Community And Technical College seeking access to a comprehensive list of course syllabi for all undergraduate and graduate courses offered during the Spring 2025 semester. The request aims to obtain syllabi from all departments, schools, and colleges within the institution, irrespective of whether the courses were conducted in-person, online, or through hybrid formats.
The request specifically asks for relevant metadata associated with each course syllabus, including the course title and number, instructor name, department or academic unit, and the course delivery format (online/in-person/hybrid). The Huntsville Leader emphasized that this information is crucial for their journalistic endeavors in holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency.
In addition to requesting the records under the Alabama Open Records Law § 36-12-40 et seq., the Huntsville Leader has also requested a fee waiver citing their role as a media organization involved in disseminating information to the public. They have highlighted their affiliation with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization dedicated to investigating governmental agencies and promoting transparency through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
