Planned Demopolis facility represents significant state investment in Black Belt region, could serve hundreds of students
On Tuesday, May 14, Governor Kay Ivey traveled to Demopolis to ceremonially sign House Bill 163, officially establishing the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences. The event, attended by a standing-room-only crowd, marks a significant milestone for the region and the state. Joining Governor Ivey were Demopolis Mayor Woody Collins, Rob Pearson from the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Foundation, state Rep. Cynthia Almond, state Rep. A.J. McCampbell, state Sen. Bobby Singleton, and state Sen. Gerald Allen, among others.
The Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences was first announced last year as a favored project of Governor Ivey, a native of the Black Belt region. Despite facing legislative resistance and not receiving funding last year, recent legislation corrected this, securing the necessary support and funding.
Senator Bobby Singleton of Greensboro emphasized the importance of this development for the community. “I am honored that the state of Alabama chose my district to house this new school,” Singleton said. “This school will give communities throughout the state, along with hospitals and doctors’ offices, a steady stream of trained medical professionals and staff.”
The school, set to open in the fall of 2026, will be a residential institution, similar to the Alabama School of Cyber Technology & Engineering in Huntsville, the Alabama School of Math & Science in Mobile, and the Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham. Located next to Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital, the school will provide students with both classroom and practical experience daily.
Students will graduate with certificates in various healthcare-related programs, addressing the chronic healthcare workforce shortage in Alabama. The school will initially accommodate approximately 400 ninth and tenth graders, with plans to add an additional grade each year. The initial legislative appropriation for the school is $15 million, supplemented by matching funds from private foundations to assist with construction costs.
While the school is under construction, there will be a partnership with the University of West Alabama to house students. Additional partnerships include one with The University of Alabama at Birmingham, enhancing the educational opportunities available to students.
The school may also offer short courses, workshops, seminars, and other innovative programs to students not enrolled full-time.
Governor Ivey concluded her remarks by challenging the community to ensure the school’s success. “Let’s get this school built, let’s get this school opened in under two years, and let’s get students from all over Alabama in the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences. Together, I know we can make this a success that will change Alabama for the better.”
