Baldwin County, Ala. — (OBA) —  Baldwin Preparatory Academy is beginning a milestone school year. The school is welcoming 233 incoming 10th-grade students and expanding career opportunities and industry credentials. These programs are designed to prepare students for college, careers, and Baldwin County’s workforce.

The 2026–2027 school year began in August 2026, offering new opportunities in health science, cosmetology, and drone technology. Baldwin Prep also expanded dual-enrollment options with Coastal Alabama Community College.

The additions combine academic instruction with hands-on experiences. School officials said the approach is intended to prepare students for college, the workforce, or skilled careers after graduation.

Health science students can take Nursing 112 through dual enrollment. They can also participate in a Pharmacy Technician program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training.



Students in those programs can earn college credit and industry credentials. These opportunities are part of the school’s effort to align education with workforce needs.

Baldwin Prep also added a Drone Program. Students can study drone flight, sensor data, and autonomous technology. The program includes opportunities for drone licensing and programming. These skills can support future education and career paths in technology and other industries.

Beginning in September, the Cosmetology Program will be open to the public every Monday. Students will gain real-world experience by working with clients. The program prepares students for careers as licensed cosmetologists or barbers. It also provides opportunities to develop technical skills, earn credentials, and practice professional conduct.

“We are excited to welcome our students back for another year of learning, growth and opportunity,” said Adam Sealy, Principal of Baldwin Preparatory Academy. “Our goal is to give students the education, skills and real-world experiences to build their own future,” Sealy said. 

“This year’s motto, ‘Today’s Classroom! Tomorrow’s Workforce! Career – College – Choice,’ reflects our commitment to preparing every student for what comes next,” he said. “Whether they choose to pursue college, a career or enter the workforce, we want them to leave Baldwin Prep with the confidence, professionalism and hands-on experience they need to succeed,” Sealy said.

Baldwin Prep recently graduated its first class to complete all three years of high school at the academy. The class graduated at the end of the 2025–2026 academic year. During that school year, 564 students participated in dual enrollment at Coastal Alabama Community College. Students also earned 106 industry-recognized credentials.

The school partners with industry and tailors its programs to workforce needs. The goal is to help students build technical, professional and personal skills.

Graduates are recognized for their professionalism, communication skills, work ethic and willingness to learn. These qualities can help students succeed in college, in their careers and in the workforce.

The partnership also supports Baldwin County by helping develop a skilled workforce aligned with local employers' needs. Students are introduced to workplace expectations throughout their time at Baldwin Prep.

The school emphasizes industry-specific uniforms, time management, accountability, and professionalism. Students also develop other qualities valued by employers.

Baldwin Preparatory Academy operates in an approximately 200,000-square-foot facility. The state-of-the-art facility includes classrooms, training areas and collaborative spaces.

The facility was designed for academic and industry-specific immersion. Its programs offer students post-graduation options, including four-year college, community college and technical training. Students may also pursue military service, entrepreneurship or direct entry into the workforce. Baldwin Prep is part of the Baldwin County Public School System.

The academy is a full-time, magnet school-like institution of higher learning that combines academic studies with real-world, on-the-job experiences.

As the new school year continues, Baldwin Prep is connecting education, career preparation, and the needs of the Baldwin County community. The school’s programs are designed to help students choose and pursue their own paths.