Alabama Public Television Considers Ending PBS Partnership

Alabama Public Television (APT) is currently deliberating whether to sever its long-standing partnership with PBS, a move that could significantly impact the availability of educational programming, including beloved shows like Sesame Street. This decision could make APT the first educational television network in the United States to discontinue its affiliation with PBS, which currently provides approximately 90% of APT’s content.

The discussions arose following significant federal funding cuts, including a reduction of $1.1 billion to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting by former President Donald Trump earlier this year. During a public meeting on Tuesday, APT board members and commissioners examined the potential financial and political consequences of continuing their partnership with PBS.

APT Board Member Johnny Curry highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “If you sever it, you’ve got to come up with 90% of your programming to replace, and that includes all of the educational programming the children watch during the day, which is the main mission of this institution.”

The PBS partnership was not initially on the meeting agenda, but board members engaged in an impromptu discussion about its implications. Some members were unaware that the topic would be addressed, while others, including APT Commissioner Les Barnett, arrived prepared with proposals for disaffiliation. Barnett presented a five-page document that outlined alternative programming options, emphasizing that severing ties with PBS could enhance APT’s relationship with more conservative political leaders in Alabama.

“Continuing APT’s partnership with PBS could send a bad message to politicians like Trump, State Governor Kay Ivey, and the Republican majority House and Senate,” stated William Green, another APT commissioner. He underscored the need to examine PBS’s perceived negative impact on APT’s funding prospects.

The board acknowledged the necessity for further discussions before making any final decisions. APT, which was established as the nation’s first educational television network, faces a daunting challenge if it proceeds with disaffiliation. Losing PBS would mean losing access to key educational content, including Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, and PBS NewsHour.

The implications of this potential severance extend beyond programming. A specific concern was raised regarding its impact on local communities, such as a religious school in Hoover, where approximately 300 children gather each morning to watch Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. “Church leaders are saying it’s just the most beautiful way to start the day, and it’s become a tradition and a pattern,” noted APT’s Executive Director, Conroy. He reflected on the cultural significance of these programs, stating, “I grew up with Mr. Rogers… it’s the backbone of the American experience in many ways.”

Board Member Bebe Williams suggested that APT explore the possibility of selecting specific PBS programming to retain, rather than severing ties entirely.

The next APT meeting is scheduled for November 18, 2023, and Conroy expressed his hope that both the public and legislators would share their opinions on this critical issue. “I would like to think that we would have time to deliberate and really get everyone’s opinions before we make decisions that can’t be undone,” he said, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful approach to such a significant potential change.