The APCSC Charter Check- In August 19, 2025

Building Stronger Schools Through Community Partnerships

The Alabama Public Charter School Commission (APCSC) recognizes that schools are at their very best when families, educators, and community partners work together to support student growth and achievement. This year, as we continue to prioritize high-quality education across all charter schools, the Commission is emphasizing the importance of collaboration and engagement at every level. The success of our students is not the responsibility of educators alone—it is a shared mission that thrives when families are active participants and when local organizations, businesses, and community members lend their expertise, resources, and support.

APCSC encourages charter school leaders to foster open communication with families, to welcome ideas, and to create opportunities for families to engage in meaningful ways, whether through school events, advisory committees, or project-based learning initiatives. Every conversation, suggestion, and contribution strengthens the community and builds a culture of shared responsibility for student success.

Families, too, play an essential role in shaping the school experience. Your engagement—attending school events, participating in parent-teacher conferences, supporting at-home learning, and volunteering in classrooms—has a direct impact on student achievement and well-being. APCSC encourages families to take advantage of the many opportunities offered by schools to stay informed, provide feedback, and participate in programs that benefit students and the school community as a whole.

APCSC remains committed to supporting schools, families, and communities in cultivating these vital connections. Together, we can ensure that every student has access to a high-quality, engaging, and equitable education. By working collaboratively, celebrating successes, and embracing opportunities for growth, we can create strong schools and vibrant communities where students are inspired to learn, lead, and thrive.

With appreciation,
Logan Searcy
Executive Director
Alabama Public Charter School Commission

To watch our latest commission meeting visit the link below

APCSC Nelson- Marshall Awards for Teaching Excellence 2025- 2026 Application Portal Now Open

The Alabama Public Charter School Commission (APCSC) is now accepting applications for its annual Charter School Teacher of the Year Program, recognizing excellence in teaching across Alabama’s charter schools. The program honors three outstanding educators with the Nelson-Marshall Awards for Teaching Excellence—one each in elementary (K–5), middle (6–8), and high school (9–12) grade levels.

Eligible teachers must be full-time instructors at an authorized Alabama charter school and nominated by their school. The nomination process should be collaborative, ideally led by a leadership team or a selection committee representing faculty, parents, and students.

Once each school selects its nominees, completed applications should be submitted by October 1, 2025. The Commission will review all submissions and announce the winners at an upcoming APCSC meeting in December 2025. This program is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the dedication and excellence of charter school teachers who inspire and shape the next generation of learners.

For more information and to apply visit, https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwm1sDvWX2428Pbmz3z7hJRVBpzmoVqTQTV8cddC6xKN6FHA/viewform?usp=header 

Invictus Career Institue and Workforce Development Center

The Alabama Public Charter School Commission (APCSC) is proud to announce the approval of Invictus Career Institute and Workforce Development Center, a new public charter school in Bessemer, Alabama, set to open in Fall 2026. Serving students in grades 6–12, Invictus will prepare future healthcare and medical professionals through rigorous academics, hands-on learning, and strong industry partnerships.

The school’s mission is to “empower students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experiences necessary for success in health and medical careers.” Invictus will provide students with character, college, and career leadership skills (CCL Matters), real-world application through industry-based projects, job shadowing, and internships, and direct experience in healthcare environments.

Key educational partners, including Lawson State Community College, Lifting As We Climb Foundation, New Schools for Alabama, and Children’s of Alabama, will support students in gaining both academic excellence and practical experience. With this career-focused model, graduates will leave equipped to thrive in the healthcare workforce or pursue higher education.

“Invictus Career Institute will be an incredible addition to Alabama’s public charter school landscape,” said Logan Searcy, APCSC Executive Director. “Their model offers students the opportunity to graduate not only with a diploma, but also with valuable industry experience and a clear pathway into the healthcare workforce.”

For more information about Invictus Career Institute, visit https://invictuscareerinstitute.org/.

APCSC Visited with our Charter School Communities for the First Day of School

To welcome the start of the 2025–26 school year, APCSC, visited with a few of charter schools, sharing in the excitement of students and staff returning to classrooms. APCSC Communications Specialist, Adoria Hughes had the chance to meet school leaders, observe learning environments, and recognize the dedication of educators shaping the next generation.

“Being on campus with our students and teachers on the first day is a wonderful reminder of the creativity, passion, and potential that exist in every classroom,” said Adoria Hughes. “It’s an honor to see our charter schools in action and to celebrate the bright futures being built across Alabama.”

APCSC looks forward to supporting these schools throughout the year as they continue fostering student growth, achievement, and innovation.

See below for all the first day excitement!

 I Dream Big Charter School

Last week, I Dream Big Charter School officially opened its doors in Tuscaloosa, welcoming its inaugural group of students for the 2025–2026 school year. The school is dedicated to providing a nurturing and innovative learning environment that empowers students to explore their passions, develop essential skills, and reach their full potential.

“Seeing I Dream Big Charter School open its doors and welcome its first students is a proud moment for Alabama’s public charter schools,” said Logan Searcy, APCSC Executive Director. “This school represents a bold vision for student-centered learning and demonstrates the incredible opportunities that high-quality charter schools bring to communities across the state.”

With a focus on student-centered learning and community engagement, I Dream Big Charter School is set to make a lasting impact in Tuscaloosa, equipping scholars with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to achieve their dreams.

LEAD Academy New Updates for the 2025–26 School Year

During our visit, APCSC got to see how this year’s newest additions at L.E.A.D Academy—new cafeteria and new high school building—are now thriving, established spaces for students to learn, gather, and grow. It’s going to be another great year at LEAD!

Freedom Prep Academy Founder & CEO, Roblin Webb , recently joined Darryl Cobb, President of the Charter School Growth Fund, on the Leader to Leader podcast! Ms. Webb shared the heart and vision behind Freedom Prep! Stay tuned for the release date and link in our upcoming newsletter.

I3 Educators attended Kulture Summit in Birmingham

Mr. Dunn and Dr. Underwood, proudly represented i3 Academy at this incredible event.

Alabama Teacher Mentor Program

The Alabama Teacher Mentor Program (ATMP) had a successful year last year and will be implemented statewide during the 2025-2026 school year. The ATMP funds provide support for teachers in their first and second year in the teaching profession. Please share the following information with your staff.

2025- 2026 Compliance Monitoring

The 2025–2026 Compliance Monitoring Review will take place from September 2025 through May 2026. This schedule aligns with the Alabama Board of Nursing Administrative Code, which requires on-site compliance monitoring by the School Nurse Administrator or their designee at least once every three years.

ALSDE Emergency Operations Planning (EOP)

As the 2025–2026 school year begins, the Alabama State Department of Education’s Prevention and Support Services Section reminds district administrators to confirm that required school safety trainings are completed at each school and documented in the Emergency Operations Planning (EOP) platform, nSide. The required trainings are listed below for reference.

ALSDE McKinney-Vento Homeless Children and Youth (HCY) Program Fiscal Year 2026  

The Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) is pleased to announce the release of the Fiscal Year 2026 application for the McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth (HCY) Program. The application includes all regulatory requirements and a timeline of related expectations and will be available beginning Tuesday, August 19, 2025, through eGAP.

Funding will be awarded to eligible Local Education Agencies (LEAs) through a competitive grant process to support programs providing appropriate educational services for Homeless Children and Youth. Completed applications must be submitted to the ALSDE by Thursday, September 18, 2025..