Baldwin Preparatory Academy marked a major milestone May 18 as the school celebrated its first graduating class, honoring 190 seniors who leave campus with college credits, industry certifications and hands-on career experience already in place.

School leaders said in a news release the inaugural class reflects Baldwin Prep’s mission of blending academics with workforce preparation, giving students a direct pathway into high-demand careers and higher education opportunities.

Among the graduating seniors, 67% plan to enter the workforce while 19% intend to attend a two-year or four-year college. Students in the class collectively earned 75 scholarships totaling $733,000, secured 12 apprenticeship opportunities and completed 106 industry credentials and certifications across the school’s 12 career pathways.

Students earned credentials in fields including health care, mechatronics, aviation, education, graphic design and advertising, HVAC, cybersecurity and construction. Many also received honors in regional, state and national competitions during the school year.

Principal Adam Sealy said the accomplishments demonstrate the vision behind the school’s creation.

“This first graduating class represents exactly why Baldwin Prep was created,” Sealy said in the release. “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.”

The academy was founded to provide students with academic rigor, workforce exposure and career-connected learning opportunities. Throughout the year, students participated in job site visits, industry tours and weekly conversations with local professionals who mentored students and shared career insights.

Sophia Hall, a graduate in the school’s health care pathway, earned certification as a medical assistant after passing the Healthcare Medical Assistant exam.

"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.”

Cybersecurity student Ben Earl also credited the school’s career-focused approach for helping shape his future plans. Earl participated in a Hatchathon competition 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,” Earl said.

Lee Lawson, president and CEO of Baldwin Alliance, said the academy is helping address workforce needs in Baldwin County.

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

The school has also expanded dual enrollment opportunities through Coastal Alabama Community College during the 2025-2026 school year. In its second year, Baldwin Prep reported 563 students enrolled in dual enrollment courses, 6,929 dual enrollment credit hours earned and more than $1.1 million in tuition value provided to students and families.

As the academy closes its first graduation chapter, school leaders said they plan to continue expanding programs, strengthening partnerships with industry leaders and creating more opportunities that connect students directly to careers.