Apple names 16 Alabama schools ‘distinguished’ for tech innovation

Schools across Alabama have received the title of “Apple Distinguished School” from the tech company, symbolizing their commitment to fostering innovation and creativity in the classroom. 

Apple has been involved in educational initiatives since the 1980s, during which they donated thousands of Apple IIe desktops to California schools, according to Wired. 

Today, Apple has several programs to benefit students, teachers and school districts, including the Apple Distinguished Schools and Apple Distinguished Educators programs. 

Qualifications

To be considered for the program, schools must: 

• Have an established one-to-one program in at least two grades for at least two academic years (an Apple device for every student)
• Use Apple platforms in innovative ways
• Have leadership and faculty proficiency with iPad or Mac
• Establish a continuous innovation leadership team

The Apple Distinguished Schools program is invitation-only for accredited public and private schools. 

Alabama schools in the Apple Distinguished Schools program

The 16 Alabama schools are scattered all over the state and include some schools in rural areas: 

• Andalusia Elementary School — Andalusia 
• Andalusia High School — Andalusia 
• Andalusia Junior High School — Andalusia 
• Auburn Junior High School — Auburn
• Bush Hills STEAM Academy — Birmingham
• Chestnut Grove Elementary School — Decatur 
• Echols Middle School — Northport 
• Fort Dale Academy — Greenville 
• Gulf Shores Elementary School — Gulf Shores 
• Gulf Shores High School — Gulf Shores 
• Gulf Shores Middle School — Gulf Shores 
• i3 Academy Elementary School — Birmingham 
• i3 Academy Middle School — Birmingham 
• Lee-Scott Academy — Auburn
• Piedmont High School — Piedmont
• Tuskegee Public School — Tuskegee

Some of these schools have been in the program for several years, but others, like i3 Academy, were just admitted to the 2025-2028 program term. 

“I am thrilled about the recognition of our innovative work in leveraging cutting-edge technology to equip our students with essential skills using Apple products. This award is not merely a milestone; it stands as a testament to the relentless efforts we’ve put forth and the continuous learning our educators embrace to empower our students.”

i3 Academy Director of Technology Krystal Wright

Benefits of the program

The 1,100+ schools in 41 countries and regions are given access to a worldwide leadership network, opportunities to engage with the Apple education team, eligibility to participate in professional learning opportunities and more.

Once part of the program, Apple says schools are required to: 

• Continuously innovate and explore cutting-edge opportunities for using Apple technology to design the future of education
• Engage with Apple and a worldwide network of school leaders to investigate and support the integration of new education products, curriculum and services
• Inspire others through hosting school site visits and showcasing the school’s ongoing success within and outside the community
• Participate in Apple Distinguished Schools events, programming and networking activities

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