Education

Jacksonville is a city deeply rooted in education, so an outstanding Pre-K through 12 educational program is a priority.   The Jacksonville City School provides an exemplary education for students by following the school district's mission "To prepare all students for a successful life."  The faculty and staff work diligently to provide a challenging and well-rounded education that prepares students to succeed beyond school.

Jacksonville City Schools serve approximately 1,630 students in its elementary and high schools.  Kitty Stone Elementary School serves students in grades Pre-K through 6.  Jacksonville High School serves grades 7 through 12.

The school district is in the seventh year of the One to World Initiative.  The initiative put an iPad or Chromebook in the hands of all students in grades Pre-K through 12.  The goal of the One to World Initiative is to ensure that every student is college and/or career ready when they leave Jacksonville City Schools.

Jacksonville City Schools Highlights

13th in the state in district-wide math proficiency in 2019

13th in the state in district-wide reading proficiency in 2019

25th best school system in the state according to Niche 2021

30th most diverse school system according to Niche 2021

Students and staff are trained in A.L.I.C.E. active shooter response

Kitty Stone Elementary Highlights

1st in the 2020 Elementary Science Olympiad

Leader in Me School

80% of K-3 teachers are certified in the science of reading

Two National Board Certified Teachers

Annual ACTE Technology Fair Participation with numerous winners

Strong Beginning Band program

Kitty Stone Singers

Robotics and coding curriculum

Jacksonville High School Highlights

ACT Composite Average above the state average for the past five years

Advanced Placement with 50% of the exams taken resulting in a qualifying score

One National Board Certified Teacher

Ranked #1 Calhoun County high schools according to U.S. News and World Report

Ranked 41st in Alabama high schools. U.S. News and World Report

Dual Enrollment with Jacksonville State University

Comprehensive high school with embedded career technical center

Offers Competitive Cheerleading, Mountain Biking, Football, Volleyball, Cross Country, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Golf, Tennis, and Track & Field

Football had nine consecutive State Playoff appearances and finished in 2019 as the 4A State Runner-Up

2020 Volleyball State Tournament Elite 8, County Tournament Champions, Area Champions

Golden Eagle Band consistently earns Superior ratings and Best in Class honors at marching and concert festivals

Strong Drama and Music programs

Northeast Alabama Debate League Champions

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville State University provides distinctive educational, cultural and social experiences for a diverse student population. As a learning-centered university, Jacksonville State University strives to challenge students academically in a responsive environment, meeting students’ educational, career and personal goals. As an academic institution, Jacksonville State University seeks to produce broadly-educated graduates that are prepared for global engagement. As a public, comprehensive university, Jacksonville State University promotes excellence in scholarly and service activities consistent with its academic and professional strengths. (www.jsu.edu)

Gadsden State Community College

Gadsden State Community College is a comprehensive community college dedicated to meeting the changing needs of citizens in its service area. It offers the first two years of a four-year degree, a number of technical and certificate programs, and non-credit programs that include continuing education, skills training, and adult education. The Gadsden State Community College Ayers Campus and the Gadsden State McClellan Center serve the residents in the Calhoun County area. (www.gadsdenstate.edu)

Gadsden State offers numerous Associate in Arts and Associate in Science Degree programs.

GSCC also has a technical division which offers a wide array of educational opportunities.
Associate Degrees and Certificate Programs

Public Schools

The Calhoun County School System is the largest of the five school systems and offers a variety of educational opportunities for students of all ages, interests and abilities. The Calhoun County School System is comprised of seven elementary schools, two middle schools, seven high schools and a career technical center.

Private Schools in Calhoun County

The Calhoun County area is also served by a variety of private schools. These private schools, from religious-based to college-preparatory, provide additional educational choices for residents.

Contact Information