Demopolis Set to Host Innovative Healthcare High School by 2026
An Unprecedented Initiative by Alabama State
Demopolis, Alabama- Alabama is set to pioneer a unique educational initiative with the establishment of a high school focused on healthcare studies. Named Alabama School of Healthcare Science, the school is set for a grand opening in the fall of 2026 and is aimed towards providing high school students with an early exposure and specialized knowledge in various healthcare domains.
A Statewide Facility for Specialised Education
Alabama Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton has voiced his pride in the fact that Demopolis was chosen for this innovative venture. “This institution will be instrumental in supplying hospitals and doctors’ offices throughout state with well-trained medical personnel,” Singleton said.
Governor Kay Ivey recently signed the legislation at the Demopolis Civic Center, giving a nod to the new establishment. The proposed high school shall provide residential facilities and will be accessible to students from all over the state, similar to the operation of institutions like Alabama School of Cyber Technology & Engineering, Alabama School of Fine Arts, and Alabama School of Math & Science.
Education Meets Practice
The new school shall be constructed adjacent to Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital. This proximity will help in blending classroom knowledge with practical experience on a daily basis. Graduates will earn certificates in a plethora of domains related to science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine. The aim is to combat chronic healthcare workforce shortage in Alabama by empowering students to enter the workforce immediately post graduation.
Funding and Support
With an initial legislative appropriation of $15 million, the school aims to admit around 400 ninth and tenth graders initially in its first year and subsequently add an additional grade each year. Plans are in place to collaborate with the University of West Alabama to accommodate students while the school is under construction. The school will enjoy the support of private foundations that shall substantially aid in defraying the costs and construction expenses.
Partnerships and Further Offerings
The Alabama School of Health Science will be located in Marengo County, a progressively developing community that is expected to adequately fulfill the needs of the school. A partnership with The University of Alabama at Birmingham is an additional asset. It is also in the cards that the school might offer short courses, weekend instructional programs, workshops, seminars, and more to non-enrolled students.
For additional information, interested parties can contact Kirsten.Barnes@alsenate.gov or via phone at 334-261-0331.
