Monroe County, Alabama, is home to a mix of public and private educational institutions, catering to students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The schools in this county provide comprehensive education and strive to foster academic excellence and personal growth among their students. Below, we detail each school’s location, grades served, number of students, and student-to-faculty ratios.
Public Schools
Elementary Schools
1. Monroeville Elementary School
- Location: 297 S Mount Pleasant Ave, Monroeville, AL 36460
- Grades: K-4
- Number of Students: Approximately 450
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Monroeville Elementary School offers a nurturing environment for young learners with a strong focus on foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. The school also incorporates technology into its curriculum to enhance learning experiences.
2. Excel Elementary School
- Location: 3010 AL-136, Excel, AL 36439
- Grades: K-6
- Number of Students: Around 500
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Excel Elementary School emphasizes a comprehensive educational approach, balancing academics with extracurricular activities. The school provides a variety of programs to support students’ physical, social, and emotional development.
3. J.U. Blacksher School
- Location: 15933 AL-21, Uriah, AL 36480
- Grades: K-6
- Number of Students: Approximately 300
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
J.U. Blacksher School focuses on creating a close-knit community where students receive individualized attention. The school offers a robust curriculum and numerous opportunities for students to engage in sports and arts.
Middle Schools
1. Monroe Intermediate School
- Location: 230 Tiger Dr, Monroeville, AL 36460
- Grades: 5-8
- Number of Students: Around 400
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Monroe Intermediate School provides a transitional educational experience, preparing students for the rigors of high school. The school emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning skills.
2. Excel Middle School
- Location: 3010 AL-136, Excel, AL 36439
- Grades: 7-8
- Number of Students: Approximately 200
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Excel Middle School offers a strong academic program complemented by extracurricular activities that promote teamwork and leadership. The school aims to develop well-rounded students prepared for high school challenges.
3. J.U. Blacksher School
- Location: 15933 AL-21, Uriah, AL 36480
- Grades: 7-8
- Number of Students: Around 150
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
J.U. Blacksher Middle School continues the tradition of providing a supportive and engaging educational environment. The school focuses on academic excellence and personal growth.
High Schools
1. Monroe County High School
- Location: 212 Tiger Dr, Monroeville, AL 36460
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 600
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Monroe County High School offers a comprehensive curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career and technical education (CTE) programs. The school is committed to preparing students for college and career readiness.
2. Excel High School
- Location: 3010 AL-136, Excel, AL 36439
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Around 400
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Excel High School provides a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, fostering a culture of excellence and community involvement. The school focuses on developing critical thinking and leadership skills.
3. J.U. Blacksher School
- Location: 15933 AL-21, Uriah, AL 36480
- Grades: 9-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 350
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
J.U. Blacksher High School emphasizes a well-rounded education with strong academic programs and numerous extracurricular activities. The school prepares students for post-secondary education and the workforce.
Private Schools
1. Monroe Academy
- Location: 4096 South Alabama Ave, Monroeville, AL 36460
- Grades: K-12
- Number of Students: Around 450
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Monroe Academy is a private school known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to character education. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities and emphasizes the development of leadership skills.
2. Lighthouse Christian Academy
- Location: 6900 US-84, Monroeville, AL 36460
- Grades: K-12
- Number of Students: Approximately 200
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Lighthouse Christian Academy provides a faith-based education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and moral development. The school offers a supportive environment where students can grow spiritually and academically.
Overview of Monroe County, AL
County Overview
Monroe County, situated in the southwestern part of Alabama, is a region rich in history and cultural heritage. Known for its literary contributions and natural beauty, the county is home to a diverse population and serves as a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and education.
Population
Monroe County has a population of approximately 22,000 residents. The county is characterized by a mix of urban and rural communities, with a relatively low population density. The demographic makeup of the county includes a diverse array of cultures and backgrounds.
County Seat and Major Cities
The county seat is Monroeville, which is also the largest city in the county. Monroeville is renowned for its literary history, being the hometown of famous authors Harper Lee and Truman Capote. Other notable communities within Monroe County include:
- Excel: A small town known for its strong sense of community and quality schools.
- Beatrice: A quaint town with historical significance and a close-knit community.
- Frisco City: A town with a rich history and a focus on agriculture and local businesses.
Transportation
Monroe County is accessible via a network of highways and local roads. Key transportation routes include:
- U.S. Highway 84: Runs east-west, connecting Monroeville to other major cities in Alabama.
- State Route 21: Provides a north-south route through the county, linking Monroeville to the surrounding regions.
Public transportation options are limited within the county, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for commuting. The nearest major airport is Mobile Regional Airport, located approximately 90 miles south of Monroeville.
Landmarks and Attractions
Monroe County is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including:
- Monroe County Courthouse: Located in Monroeville, this historic courthouse is famously associated with Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It now serves as a museum and literary center.
- Claiborne Lock and Dam: A popular spot for outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and picnicking.
- Alabama River: Provides recreational opportunities and contributes to the county’s natural beauty.
- Monroeville Literary Festival: An annual event celebrating the county’s rich literary heritage, attracting authors, readers, and scholars from across the country.
Education
Education is a priority in Monroe County, with a variety of public and private schools serving the community, as detailed in the previous section. The county is also home to Reid State Technical College, which offers vocational training and associate degree programs, contributing significantly to local workforce development.
Economy
The economy of Monroe County is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, education, and retail. Major employers in the county include:
- Georgia-Pacific: A leading manufacturer of paper and wood products, contributing significantly to the local economy.
- Alabama River Cellulose: A major player in the pulp and paper industry.
- Monroe County Board of Education: One of the largest employers in the region, focusing on educational services.
Agriculture remains a vital part of the county’s economy, with many residents engaged in farming and related activities. The county also continues to attract new businesses and industries, bolstered by its strategic location and natural resources.