August 8, 2026

Fairhope Taking Closer Look at Becoming an Independent School System

By Rick McCann
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News

August 8, 2026

FAIRHOPE, Ala. We have been reporting for about a year the various discussions and studies being done by Fairhope officials as they look at the possibilities of starting their own independent school system breaking away from Baldwin County as other schools have done in recent years.

Some independent studies have shown that the affluent and fast-growing city could financially support taking the step into creating their own school system while others say that it might be too soon.

As the conversations and deeper studies continue, Fairhope residents may soon have their own opportunity to weigh in on the topic.

City officials are launching three public meetings and an online survey to gauge whether community support exists for separating from the Baldwin County School System. The effort follows two studies that examined the feasibility of a Fairhope city school system but reached sharply different conclusions.

“It’s been an ongoing conversation in Fairhope for the past 10 years, if not more,” Sullivan said.

But things are quite a bit different in 2026 than it was 2016. The city has grown by leaps and bounds and continues to grow to the point of having to issue moratoriums on building high density residential communities several times in the past three years.
The city on the bluff once known for its tiny town charm has recreated itself to an upscale, boutique community where retirees and young families are moving to for its charm and the many amenities that it offers, including its schools.

All three meetings will be livestreamed and held in the Fairhope City Council chambers. Overflow attendees will be able to watch the livestream from the building’s lobby.

The meetings are scheduled for 5:30 p.m.:

Tuesday, Aug. 18

Sunday, Aug. 23

Wednesday, Sept. 9

Residents who cannot attend can participate through an online survey. The city is also accepting comments by email at fairhopecityschools@fairhopeal.gov.

The public comment period will conclude in late September, and city staff will present a summary of the feedback to the Fairhope City Council on Sept. 28.

Sullivan and council members Jimmy Conyers and Jack Burrell emphasized that no vote is expected at that meeting.

“What would happen on September 28^th, is that we would hopefully have enough feedback and information to say, ‘is this something we want to pursue?’” Conyers said. “And then start the next steps.”

There are many things to consider. New schools may need to be built and that’ll take money that will have to come from increased taxes.
While some might support the increase, others, such as retirees with no children, may not.
Some have publicly stated that “if it’s not broke, why fix it”.

A news release issued Thursday said Fairhope is served by “outstanding teachers, dedicated administrators, supportive parents, and students who consistently perform at a high level.” The release added that the discussion is not a “criticism of our schools or the people who make them successful.”

Baldwin County School Superintendent Marty McRae said in a statement that county school officials plan to join the city for the public meeting on Aug. 18 to answer questions.

“We are the third largest school system in the state, but we value each of our feeder patterns equally,” McRae said. “Partnerships with our cities are very important to us and we would be very disappointed to lose our Fairhope partnership. We appreciate the support we’ve received from the city and know they are happy with the services we provide.”

While both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores have established their own school system, they also have a significant financial base from lodging tax revenues generated by tourism.

SUPPORT OUR “LOCAL” NEWS
https://bluerammedia.com/DONATE/