For Immediate Release:
March 18, 2026
For press inquiries only, contact:
Amanda Priest (334) 322-5694
William Califf (334) 604-3230
(Mobile, Ala) – Attorney General Steve Marshall presented a 2025 Safe School Award to ACCEL Academy in Mobile, Ala. The school’s leadership and law enforcement leadership were recognized for the excellent implementation of safety plans and identifying current trends in school safety.
Attorney General Marshall noted that out of more than 1,500 public and private schools in Alabama, ACCEL Academy was one of only nine selected for a 2025 Alabama Safe School Award, recognizing the school’s continued commitment to enhancing public safety and fostering a strong, safe, and vibrant community.
During the presentation, Attorney General Marshall addressed the great work of ACCEL’s community. Marshall stated, “Operating in an adapted, unconventional facility and serving students through both traditional daytime hours and an evening school model, ACCEL Academy has thoughtfully implemented numerous safeguards to ensure protection across all schedules. The school has embraced a blend of technology-based security measures and strong human-driven practices, creating layered protections that address the specific needs of its environment. By recognizing that school safety must be intentional, regardless of setting or structure, ACCEL Academy has demonstrated innovation, vigilance, and an unwavering dedication to providing a secure learning environment for every student it serves.”
The selection process featured a comprehensive application and review process by a panel of independent judges who possess real-world insight into school safety trends. All applicants were evaluated on their ability to enhance safe school protocols through preparation and training; collaboration with local emergency response agencies; involvement of school resource officers or alternate security personnel; structure and innovation of safety technology; community participation; and law-related and prevention education.
Applicants from across Alabama applied for the 2025 Attorney General’s Safe Schools Initiative. The highest honor, the Safe School Award, went to nine schools. Attorney General Marshall will present each of the following schools with awards for their incredible achievements. ACCEL Academy, Mobile; Orange Beach Middle & High School, Orange Beach; Northside High School, Northport; Beauregard Elementary School, Opelika; Allen Thornton Career Technical Center, Killen; Cullman City Primary School, Cullman; Eastwood Elementary School, Decatur; Elvin Hill Elementary School, Columbiana; and Harriette W. Gwin Elementary School, Hoover.
An additional four schools exceeded the minimum state requirements and exhibited dedication to higher standards for student learning, mental health, and safety. These schools were recognized by receiving a congratulatory letter and certificate from the Attorney General.
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