Loxley, Ala. – Baldwin Preparatory Academy celebrated a historic milestone on Monday, May 18, as the school honored its first graduating class, recognizing 190 seniors whose achievements are already demonstrating the impact of Baldwin Prep’s innovative approach to education.

The inaugural graduating class represents a new generation of students entering college and the workforce with a significant head start. Through Baldwin Prep’s unique model, students graduate not only with academic achievement but also with industry credentials, dual enrollment college credits, hands-on experience, and direct connections to careers in high-demand fields.

Among the graduating class:

• 67% of graduates plan on entering the workforce
• 19% of graduates plan on attending a 2-year or 4-year college
• 75 college scholarships were awarded, totaling $733,000
• 12 apprenticeship opportunities were offered to seniors
• 106 industry credentials and certifications were earned across Baldwin Prep’s 12 career pathways

Students earned certifications and credentials in a wide range of high-demand career fields, and also achieved recognition at regional, state, and national competitions throughout the school year, further highlighting the strength of Baldwin Prep’s career-connected programs and student achievement.

Sophia Hall is a graduating student who pursued the Health Care field of study. She took and passed the Healthcare Medical Assistant (MA) test, and is now a certified MA.

“My favorite thing about Baldwin Prep is probably the innumerable opportunities I’ve been given throughout my time here. I’ve had plenty of opportunities for dual enrollment, as well as in the healthcare pathway. I am now a certified MA, so I can do things like take vital signs, I can work in a managerial position as far as coding goes, I can take patient intake, and I can perform lab tests. After graduation, I’m heading to UAB in pursuit of a neuroscience degree and then on a pre-med track.”

Additional students across multiple career pathways, including mechatronics, aviation, education, graphic design and advertising, HVAC, cybersecurity, and construction, have entered the workforce equipped with credentials and real-world experience that position them for immediate success.

Ben Earl is another graduating senior who chose the Cybersecurity pathway. He was also a Hatchathon contestant and is developing an app for Ammons & Blackmon Construction.

“Baldwin Prep prepares you for the workforce and allows you to develop real connections and pursue internships in your field. It helps you develop a future outside of high school, with opportunities to work, and to learn, and to just further your education. After graduation, I want to further my knowledge and work for companies, and hopefully start my own business at some point,” said Earl.

Baldwin Prep was founded with a mission to provide students with academic rigor, workforce exposure, and a head start on future success. School leaders say the achievements of the first graduating class demonstrate that mission in action.

“This first graduating class represents exactly why Baldwin Prep was created,” said Adam Sealy, principal of Baldwin Preparatory Academy. “Our students are leaving here with more than a diploma. They have college credit, industry certifications, real-world experience, and a clear direction for their future. We are incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited to see the impact they will make in our community and beyond.”

Beyond the classroom, Baldwin Prep hosted dozens of career-connected experiences throughout the year, from job site visits and industry tours to weekly career conversations with local professionals who visited campus to mentor and inspire students.

“Baldwin Prep is one of the most exciting education innovations we’ve been a part of in our region,” said Lee Lawson, President & CEO of Baldwin Alliance. “It’s producing students who are both academically prepared and workforce ready, and that’s a huge win for Baldwin County.”

Baldwin Prep has continued to expand its dual enrollment opportunities through Coastal Alabama Community College during the 2025–2026 school year. In just its second year, the school reported:

• 563 students enrolled in dual enrollment courses
• 6,929 dual enrollment credit hours earned
• $1,136,356 in tuition value provided to students and families
• As Baldwin Prep celebrates its first graduating class, the school is already looking ahead, focusing on expanding programs, deepening industry partnerships, and continuing to connect students to careers with confidence.

About Baldwin Preparatory Academy
Baldwin Prep is a premier career-technical high school serving students across Baldwin County. Established in partnership with the Baldwin County Public School System, Baldwin Prep offers a unique blend of academic excellence and real-world experience through immersive, career-connected learning pathways. With a focus on fields such as healthcare, education, construction, engineering, HVAC and welding, the academy prepares students not only for graduation but for life beyond high school, including college, technical training, or entering the workforce. Through innovative programs, industry partnerships, and a personalized learning environment, Baldwin Prep is empowering students to take ownership of their futures and thrive in high-demand, high-impact careers. Learn more at BaldwinPrep.com.

About Baldwin Alliance
Baldwin Alliance is a coalition of public and private leaders working together to drive sustainable economic growth in Baldwin County. The organization is committed to promoting Baldwin County as a premier location in the U.S. for investment and continuing to raise the quality of life in the community.