At Southern Preparatory Academy, we shape the next generation of leaders through a whole-person approach that develops the mind, body, and spirit.
Rooted in faith-based values, we empower students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose.
Our academy now offers both co-ed day student and all-boys military boarding pathways, providing a structured, challenging environment where students can thrive academically, physically, and morally.
Through innovation in STEM, honors courses, and rigorous academics, we prepare our graduates to lead meaningful, impactful lives and serve their communities with distinction.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked AL School
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: 7-12
- Enrollment: 86 students
- Yearly Tuition: $9,500
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 10 students
- Application Deadline: Sep. 12 / Feb. 4
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Southern Preparatory Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Alabama for:
Category
Attribute
School History
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 7-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1898
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
86 students
Student Body Type
% Students of Color
23%
State avg.: 24%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
12 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
75%
Average Class Size
10 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniforms provided by school
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Sep. 12 / Feb. 4
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition varies for our day and boarding students. Please visit our website for more details.
Summer Program Cost
$1,500
Summer Program Cost Notes
Costs vary depending on the program. Please visit our website for more details.
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Morgan Comolli
Admissions Associate
Mindy Pate
Sports
Total Sports Offered
13 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
9 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Aviation Program, Beta Club, Color Guard, Drill Team, Drone Demonstration Team, Ranger Team, Robotics Team, Scholars' Bowl, Sword Drill
Aviation Program, Beta Club, Color Guard, Drill Team, Drone Demonstration Team, Ranger Team, Robotics Team, Scholars' Bowl, Sword Drill
School Notes
- A Strong Foundation for Your Child's Future
- Private Day & Boarding School in Alabama, Grades 7-12
- Southern Preparatory Academy is thrilled to announce a significant expansion of our educational opportunities! We will once again welcome girls to our campus in the 2025-2026 school year, we will open our doors to male and female day students in grades 7-12. Simultaneously, our all-male military boarding program will continue to deliver an unparalleled experience with an even stronger emphasis on leadership, character development, and personal growth. All programs exist within a deliberate, disciplined, faith-based environment so each student can reach their maximum potential.
- Southern Preparatory Academy's day students, both male and female, will thrive in a rigorous academic environment designed to prepare them for success. Our comprehensive academic programs offer pathways to college, specialized leadership training, and cutting-edge career skills, including in-demand fields like cybersecurity.
- Day students will have the unique opportunity to enhance their experience through JROTC courses or fully immerse themselves in our esteemed Corps of Cadets. For those prioritizing a purely academic path, we provide the advantages of small class sizes, engaging hands-on learning, and personalized leadership development. It's important to reaffirm that our boarding program remains a dedicated military experience, to include JROTC, fostering leadership and discipline in all our cadets.
- Southern Preparatory Academy is dedicated to academic excellence, fostered by robust athletics and transformative leadership training. We are proud to fill a vital need in Tallapoosa County by offering a distinctive blend of structure, discipline, and character development, providing families with a challenging and values-driven education. We believe in accessibility, offering potential tuition assistance through programs like the CHOOSE Act and Scholarships for Kids.
- We want to emphasize that Southern Prep is a place of growth and achievement, not reform. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where students challenge themselves academically, athletically, and as leaders.
- We are eagerly stepping out in this exciting new chapter and warmly invite families to discover the expanded opportunities Southern Prep offers. Please visit our website to explore the dynamic changes already underway and to schedule a tour.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Southern Preparatory Academy cost?
Southern Preparatory Academy's tuition is approximately $9,500 for private students and $1,500 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of Southern Preparatory Academy?
The acceptance rate of Southern Preparatory Academy is 90%, which is equal to the national average of 90%.
Does Southern Preparatory Academy offer a summer program?
Yes, Southern Preparatory Academy offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Southern Preparatory Academy offer?
Southern Preparatory Academy offers 13 interscholastic sports: Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Drill Team, E-sports, Football, Golf, Riflery, Soccer, Track and Field, Weightlifting and Wrestling.
What is Southern Preparatory Academy's ranking?
Southern Preparatory Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Alabama for: Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Southern Preparatory Academy?
The application deadline for Southern Preparatory Academy is Sep. 12 / Feb. 4.
School Reviews
Endorse Southern Preparatory Academy. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

How To Use AI For Research: A High School Student's Guide
We introduce teenagers to AI as a powerful alternative to traditional search engines. This practical guide walks students through using AI tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT for academic research while maintaining intellectual integrity.

A Parent’s Guide to Private School Entrance Exams
Navigating private school entrance exams can be challenging for parents and students alike. This comprehensive guide explains the key admissions tests—ISEE, SSAT, and HSPT—and offers insights into their differences, scoring methods, and subject emphases. Learn how to determine the best test for your child, prepare effectively, and understand the role of these exams in the holistic admissions process.

A Parent's Guide To Understanding High School Teaching Methods
This comprehensive guide helps parents navigate the various teaching methods used in today's high school classrooms. By understanding these approaches, you'll be better equipped to support your teen's learning journey, communicate effectively with teachers, and create a complementary learning environment at home.