Mobile County, Alabama, has a diverse range of educational institutions, including public, private, and charter schools. The Mobile County Public School System (MCPSS) is one of the largest in Alabama, providing education to a significant number of students across the county. This section provides detailed information on each school, including its location, grades served, number of students, and student-to-faculty ratio.
Public Schools
Elementary Schools
1. Alba Middle School
- Location: 14180 S Wintzell Ave, Bayou La Batre, AL 36509
- Grades: 5-8
- Number of Students: Approximately 700
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Alba Middle School focuses on providing a comprehensive middle school education with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities to support student development.
2. Anna F. Booth Elementary School
- Location: 1400 Cedar Ave, Bayou La Batre, AL 36509
- Grades: K-5
- Number of Students: Around 500
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Anna F. Booth Elementary offers a nurturing environment for young learners with a strong focus on literacy and numeracy. The school integrates technology into the curriculum to enhance learning experiences.
3. Breitling Elementary School
- Location: 8350 Grand Bay Wilmer Rd S, Grand Bay, AL 36541
- Grades: K-5
- Number of Students: Approximately 600
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Breitling Elementary School emphasizes a balanced education, providing strong academic programs alongside arts and physical education. The school encourages parent and community involvement.
4. Dodge Elementary School
- Location: 2615 Longleaf Dr, Mobile, AL 36693
- Grades: K-5
- Number of Students: Around 800
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Dodge Elementary offers a rigorous academic curriculum with a strong emphasis on character education. The school provides a variety of extracurricular activities to support students’ holistic development.
5. Mary B. Austin Elementary School
- Location: 150 Provident Ln, Mobile, AL 36608
- Grades: K-5
- Number of Students: Approximately 450
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Mary B. Austin Elementary focuses on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. The school integrates project-based learning and encourages creativity and critical thinking.
Middle Schools
1. Burns Middle School
- Location: 6175 Girby Rd, Mobile, AL 36693
- Grades: 6-8
- Number of Students: Around 900
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Burns Middle School offers a strong academic program with a variety of elective courses and extracurricular activities. The school emphasizes leadership development and community service.
2. Denton Magnet School of Technology
- Location: 3800 Pleasant Valley Rd, Mobile, AL 36609
- Grades: 6-8
- Number of Students: Approximately 500
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Denton Magnet focuses on technology and STEM education, providing students with hands-on learning experiences. The school offers advanced coursework and prepares students for high school and beyond.
3. Phillips Preparatory School
- Location: 3255 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL 36607
- Grades: 6-8
- Number of Students: Around 700
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Phillips Preparatory is known for its rigorous academic programs and high expectations. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including music, arts, and sports.
4. Scarborough Model Middle School
- Location: 1800 Phillips Ln, Mobile, AL 36610
- Grades: 6-8
- Number of Students: Approximately 400
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Scarborough Model Middle School emphasizes a student-centered approach to education, focusing on individual learning styles and needs. The school offers a variety of programs to support student success.
5. Spanish Fort Middle School
- Location: 33899 Jimmy Faulkner Dr, Spanish Fort, AL 36527
- Grades: 6-8
- Number of Students: Around 800
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Spanish Fort Middle School offers a comprehensive middle school education with strong academic and extracurricular programs. The school fosters a sense of community and encourages student involvement.
High Schools
1. Baker High School
- Location: 8901 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL 36608
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 2,500
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Baker High School is one of the largest high schools in Mobile County, offering a wide range of academic courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. The school also has a strong athletics program and numerous clubs and organizations.
2. Davidson High School
- Location: 3900 Pleasant Valley Rd, Mobile, AL 36609
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Around 1,800
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Davidson High School is known for its strong academic programs and extensive extracurricular activities. The school offers AP courses, a comprehensive career and technical education program, and a variety of sports and clubs.
3. Murphy High School
- Location: 100 S Carlen St, Mobile, AL 36606
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 1,600
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Murphy High School has a rich history and offers a diverse range of academic and extracurricular programs. The school focuses on college and career readiness, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed for post-secondary success.
4. Theodore High School
- Location: 6201 Swedetown Rd N, Theodore, AL 36582
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Around 1,500
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Theodore High School offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on academic excellence and personal development. The school provides numerous extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and vocational programs.
5. Vigor High School
- Location: 913 N Wilson Ave, Prichard, AL 36610
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 800
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Vigor High School emphasizes a strong academic program and offers a variety of career and technical education options. The school also has a robust athletics program and various student organizations.
Private Schools
1. St. Paul’s Episcopal School
- Location: 161 Dogwood Ln, Mobile, AL 36608
- Grades: K-12
- Number of Students: Around 1,200
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
St. Paul’s Episcopal School is known for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to character education, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school emphasizes holistic development and community service.
2. UMS-Wright Preparatory School
- Location: 65 Mobile St, Mobile, AL 36607
- Grades: K-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 1,400
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
UMS-Wright Preparatory School offers a challenging academic curriculum along with extensive extracurricular opportunities. The school focuses on preparing students for college and life beyond school.
3. Cottage Hill Christian Academy
- Location: 7355 Creekwood Dr, Mobile, AL 36695
- Grades: K-12
- Number of Students: Around 900
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Cottage Hill Christian Academy provides a faith-based education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. The school offers a variety of programs to support student growth.
4. McGill-Toolen Catholic High School
- Location: 1501 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL 36604
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 1,100
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
McGill-Toolen Catholic High School is a well-regarded institution that offers a rigorous academic program, including AP courses and dual enrollment opportunities. The school also has a strong athletics program and numerous clubs and activities.
5. Faith Academy
- Location: 8650 Tanner Williams Rd, Mobile, AL 36608
- Grades: K-12
- Number of Students: Around 1,000
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Faith Academy provides a comprehensive Christian education with a focus on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community service. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities to enhance student life.
Overview of Mobile County, AL
County Overview
Mobile County, located in the southwestern part of Alabama, is the second-most populous county in the state. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant economy, and scenic landscapes, Mobile County plays a significant role in the region’s development.
Population
Mobile County has a population of approximately 413,000 residents. The county is characterized by a diverse demographic makeup, with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities. The population is spread across several cities and towns, with Mobile being the largest city.
County Seat and Major Cities
The county seat is Mobile, which is also the largest city in the county and the third-largest city in Alabama. Mobile is a cultural and economic hub with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1702. Other notable cities and communities within Mobile County include:
- Prichard: A city known for its industrial base and historical significance.
- Saraland: A rapidly growing suburban city with excellent schools and family-friendly amenities.
- Daphne: Located across the Mobile Bay, known for its beautiful waterfront and vibrant community.
- Bayou La Batre: A fishing village with a rich maritime history, often referred to as the “Seafood Capital of Alabama.”
Transportation
Mobile County is well-connected through an extensive transportation network, including highways, railroads, and a major port. Key transportation routes and facilities include:
- Interstate 10 (I-10): Runs east-west, connecting Mobile to other major cities such as New Orleans and Jacksonville.
- Interstate 65 (I-65): Runs north-south, providing access to Montgomery and Birmingham.
- Mobile Regional Airport (MOB): Offers domestic flights and serves as a key transportation hub for the region.
- Port of Mobile: One of the largest ports in the United States, playing a crucial role in international trade and commerce.
Public transportation in Mobile is provided by the Wave Transit System, which operates bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Landmarks and Attractions
Mobile County is home to numerous historical, cultural, and natural landmarks, including:
- USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park: A major tourist attraction featuring the USS Alabama battleship, a World War II submarine, and an aircraft pavilion.
- Historic Fort Conde: A reconstructed French fort from the early 18th century, now serving as a museum and visitor center.
- Mobile Museum of Art: Houses an extensive collection of artworks and hosts various exhibitions and educational programs.
- Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center: Offers interactive exhibits and educational programs focused on science and technology.
- Bellingrath Gardens and Home: A 65-acre public garden and historic home located along the Fowl River, known for its beautiful floral displays.
Education
Mobile County places a strong emphasis on education, with a variety of public, private, and charter schools serving the community, as detailed in the previous section. The county is also home to several higher education institutions, including:
- University of South Alabama (USA): A major public research university offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
- Spring Hill College: A private Jesuit college known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on service and leadership.
- Bishop State Community College: Provides vocational training, associate degree programs, and workforce development initiatives.
Economy
The economy of Mobile County is diverse and robust, with key sectors including aerospace, maritime, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Major employers in the county include:
- Austal USA: A leading shipbuilder specializing in the design and construction of military and commercial vessels.
- Airbus: Operates a major aircraft manufacturing facility at the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley.
- Mobile Infirmary Medical Center: One of the largest healthcare providers in the region.
- University of South Alabama: A significant contributor to the local economy through education, research, and healthcare services.
The Port of Mobile is a critical asset to the local economy, facilitating international trade and supporting various industries. The county continues to attract new businesses and investments, bolstered by its strategic location and skilled workforce.