Baldwin Preparatory Academy is beginning the 2026-2027 school year with expanded career programs, new industry credentials and its first graduating class of students who completed all three years of high school at the school.

The school welcomed 233 incoming 10th-grade students, a news release said, as it began a new academic year focused on preparing students for college, careers and Baldwin County's growing workforce.

New opportunities this year include programs in health science, cosmetology and drone technology, along with expanded dual-enrollment options through Coastal Alabama Community College. The additions are part of Baldwin Prep's effort to pair a strong academic foundation with hands-on experiences designed to prepare students for college, the workplace or a skilled career after graduation.

In health science, students can take a new Nursing 112 dual-enrollment course and participate in a Pharmacy Technician program. The programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on training while allowing students to earn college credit and industry credentials.

The school has also added a Drone Program that offers licensing and programming opportunities. Students can develop skills in drone flight, sensor data and autonomous technology.

Beginning in September, the Cosmetology Program will be open to the public every Monday. The program will give students real-world experience working with clients while preparing them for careers as licensed cosmetologists or barbers.

The new offerings are designed to help students build technical skills, earn credentials and gain the professional experience needed in today's workforce.

“We are excited to welcome our students back for another year of learning, growth and opportunity,” Adam Sealy, Principal of Baldwin Preparatory Academy, said in the release. “Our goal is to give students the education, skills and real-world experiences to build their own future. This year’s motto, ‘Today’s Classroom! Tomorrow’s Workforce! Career – College – Choice,’ reflects our commitment to preparing every student for what comes next. 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.”

During the 2025-2026 academic year, 564 students participated in dual enrollment through Coastal Alabama Community College and earned 106 industry-recognized credentials.

Baldwin Prep said it continually listens to industry partners and adjusts its programs to help students develop the technical, professional and personal skills employers need. Graduates are recognized for their professionalism, communication, work ethic and willingness to learn, qualities that can help prepare them for college, careers and the workforce.

The partnership also supports Baldwin County's workforce development by helping prepare students for jobs that align with local employer needs.

The approximately 200,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility includes classrooms, training areas and collaborative spaces designed around academic and industry-specific immersion.

Students are also introduced to workplace expectations throughout their time at Baldwin Prep. That includes learning the importance of wearing industry-specific uniforms and developing skills such as time management, accountability and professionalism, along with other qualities valued by employers.

The school's approach is designed to give students multiple options for their next step, including a four-year college, community college, technical training, military service, entrepreneurship or directly entering the workforce.

With the new school year underway, Baldwin Prep continues its mission of connecting education and career preparation with the needs of the Baldwin County community. Through hands-on experience, industry credentials and career-focused education, the school is working to give students the skills and choices to pursue their own paths and become part of the region's future workforce.