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FAQs

 

This FAQ is a living document and will be updated regularly as new questions arise and more details become available. If you have a question that isn’t listed here or need additional information, please reach out to us at Admin@ALHealthcareHS.org.

Curriculum

ASHS offers a rigorous, healthcare-focused curriculum aligned with Alabama state standards and enriched by partnerships with healthcare professionals and institutions. Students take core academic subjects alongside specialized courses in biomedical sciences, public health, and healthcare ethics.

ASHS will accept only 9th-grade students for its inaugural class in Fall 2026. Upper grades will be added as the program grows, but transfer students will not be accepted at launch.

Yes. ASHS students will take part in clinical rotations and field experiences as part of their healthcare training. These opportunities provide real-world skills and prepare students for certification and future employment.

Application & Admissions

For Fall 2026, ASHS will accept only 9th-grade students from across Alabama. Transfer students in grades 10–12 will not be admitted at launch. The students must currently be in 8th grade and must be residents of Alabama.

The application period for the first class of 9th-grade (currently 8th grade) students is now open and will remain open through at least the end of the year. An early acceptance window will open after January 1, 2026.  The first students will begin classes at our mini-campus at UWA in August 2026. Click HERE to visit the Application page.

The process begins with an online application that collects basic information about the student. There also are forms for parents, current administrators, counselors, and science teachers to complete. After an initial review, selected applicants may be asked to provide recommendations, transcripts, and participate in an interview.

Credentials

Yes. Students will have opportunities to earn industry-recognized healthcare certifications (such as CPR/First Aid, Licensed Practical Nurse [LPN], or an Associate Degree in Nursing [ADN]) and college credits through dual enrollment partnerships with the University of West Alabama and other institutions.

Security

ASHS will maintain 24/7 campus security, including trained staff, surveillance systems, and secure dormitory access. Residential staff will be present in dorms nightly, and all students will follow structured check-in/check-out procedures.

Yes. A licensed nurse will be available during school hours, and partnerships with local healthcare providers will ensure access to urgent care when needed.

Yes, but only juniors and seniors. Upperclassmen may bring vehicles if they register them with the school, follow parking rules, and use them only during approved times. Freshmen and sophomores may not bring vehicles.

Campus Life

Students will participate in clubs, service organizations, intramural sports, and house competitions through the ASHS House System (Empatia, Innovare, Resolutia, Aequitas). Options may include student government, health career clubs, arts, and wellness programs.

Students will benefit from access to UWA’s facilities, including dining services, auditoriums, and recreational spaces. ASHS will maintain its own academic and residential spaces while integrating with the larger campus environment.

Every student is placed into one of four houses—Empatia, Innovare, Resolutia, or Aequitas—each representing a core healthcare virtue. The houses build belonging, leadership, and healthy competition through service projects and interhouse events.

Students are expected to dress in a manner that reflects the professionalism of healthcare. Collared shirts, ASHS-branded polos, slacks, khakis, and scrub tops/pants are acceptable. Scrubs will be required on designated days. Items such as hoodies, spaghetti straps, and athletic wear are not permitted.

Yes. Residential assignments will be gender-based. In Year 1 at UWA, male and female students will be housed on separate floors with staff supervision. In future years, ASHS’s permanent campus will provide expanded facilities with enhanced security features.

Evenings & Weekends

Evenings include structured study hours, tutoring, and downtime. Weekends feature optional activities such as excursions, cultural events, or service opportunities.

Yes. ASHS will set curfews and quiet hours to promote rest, wellness, and academic focus.

Home Visits

Students may return home on designated weekends and during school breaks. A calendar of home visit weekends will be provided.

All checkouts must be approved through the Student Life Office. Students may only be signed out by parents/guardians or approved contacts.

Technology & Communication

ASHS uses Blackbaud Education Management, which allows students and parents to view grades, attendance, assignments, and announcements.

Each student will be issued a personal device for coursework and communication. Repair/replacement policies will be outlined at orientation.

Students may bring cell phones, but their use will be strictly limited. In accordance with Alabama’s FOCUS Act (2025-386), devices cannot be used during instructional time or clinicals.

Enrollment & Cost

No. ASHS is a public, state-funded school, and there is no tuition.

Students will pay a Meal Services Fee (covering daily meals) and a Student Life Services Fee (covering laundry, some activities, and other amenities). Exact costs are still being finalized and will be communicated in advance.

Yes. ASHS is committed to keeping costs affordable and will provide financial assistance for qualifying families.