Unlocking Success: How the Alabama School for Math & Science is Shaping Future Leaders – A Yellowhammer News Special

Alabama has a lot to be proud of, from our sports teams to our achievements in technology and education. One shining star in our educational landscape is the Alabama School for Math and Science (ASMS). This school does an incredible job preparing students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

ASMS has recently been recognized as Alabama’s #1 Best Public High School for 2025 by Niche. This ranking highlights its challenging college-level courses, a unique living-learning environment, and a focus on research. The school brings together nearly 300 gifted students from 57 different counties, with more than half of them qualifying for free or reduced lunch. Remarkably, 75% of graduates go on to state universities, and 65% stay in Alabama after finishing their degrees.

To cater to Alabama’s workforce needs, ASMS offers specialized programs: the Advanced Engineering Initiative, the Medical Sciences Pathway, and the Research Fellows programs. These initiatives align with the Alabama Department of Commerce’s “Catalyst” plan, designed to boost key sectors like bioscience, defense, and advanced manufacturing. With major cities like Mobile expected to hire over 1,000 new engineers in the coming years, ASMS plays a crucial role in preparing the future workforce.

This year, ASMS received a record 500 applications, leading to the creation of a waiting list. The school’s success raises an important question: Shouldn’t we expand its facilities to accommodate more students? With more residential halls, sports facilities, and extra staff, the school could educate even more talented students. Investing in ASMS would yield great returns for Alabama, ensuring our young talent stays and contributes to the state’s economy.

While there are efforts like the Alabama Workforce Transition Act focused on enhancing workforce development, it’s vital to recognize that the foundation begins in high school. Supporting institutions like ASMS is essential for training the next generation of doctors, engineers, and scientists vital to our state’s success. Let’s prioritize funding for ASMS to continue nurturing outstanding students who will drive Alabama’s growth in STEM fields.

Bettsie Norton is a former executive for Airbus and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Alabama School for Math and Science.