Alabama's most specialized public schools are now labeled as failing because of a new state law that's supposed to make schools more accountable.
All four of the state's schools that teach only special needs students are classified as failing under the Alabama Accountability Act, which became law this year.
The schools are in Cullman, Mobile, Montgomery and Shelby County. They serve students with a wide range of emotional and mental problems and physical disabilities.
Some parents are complaining about the "failing" designation," saying the law treats their children unfairly.
State school officials call the label unfortunate since the schools cater to students who need intense, special education. But they say the law imposes strict standards that must be applied to the schools.