FOIA Request to Northwest-Shoals Community College regarding recent course syllabi on August 6, 2025.
On August 6, 2025, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Northwest-Shoals Community College by Shoals Today. The request seeks access to a comprehensive list of course syllabi for all undergraduate and graduate courses offered during the Spring 2025 academic semester. This includes syllabi for courses conducted in-person, online, or through hybrid formats across all departments, schools, and colleges within the institution.
The request specifically asks for detailed metadata accompanying each syllabus. This includes the course title and number, instructor name, department or academic unit, and the format of course delivery—whether online, in-person, or hybrid.
Shoals Today emphasizes its role as a media organization dedicated to providing thorough news coverage on local governmental affairs. The access to these public records is deemed essential for holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency. In light of this professional responsibility, Shoals Today has requested a fee waiver under the Alabama Open Records Law § 36-12-40 et seq., citing their status as a media entity.
Additionally, it is noted that the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy. This non-profit organization supports media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about this coalition can be found on their website: https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.
Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.
