Montgomery, Ala. – L.E.A.D. Academy, a local charter school, announced today that it has broken ground on a new high school campus located on Fisk Road. The property, previously home to Whitfield United Methodist Church, will be transformed into a modern facility designed to accommodate grades nine through twelve.
Project details and timeline
The school currently serves about 900 students across its existing programs. Officials say the new campus will provide dedicated classrooms, science labs, a library, and athletic spaces tailored to high‑school needs. Construction is slated to begin immediately, with the conversion expected to be finished by July of next year, allowing the first cohort of seniors to start classes on the new site this fall.
Community impact
Local leaders and parents have expressed optimism that the expansion will strengthen educational options in Montgomery. “This campus will give our students a state‑of‑the‑art learning environment while keeping tuition free and choice available,” said Charlotte Meadows, a founding board member of L.E.A.D. Academy, in a video released by the school.
The project also reflects broader trends in Alabama toward supporting charter schools as alternatives to traditional public‑school districts. By repurposing the former church site, the academy aims to revitalize the neighborhood and create new opportunities for families seeking a faith‑informed yet academically rigorous education.
Funding and support
Funding for the construction comes from a combination of private donations, grants, and the school’s own capital reserves. While the exact breakdown was not disclosed, L.E.A.D. Academy emphasized that the financial plan does not rely on additional tax increases, aligning with the community’s desire for responsible stewardship of resources.
City officials have not indicated any need for zoning changes or additional permits beyond the standard building approvals, suggesting a smooth regulatory path for the project. The school’s leadership expects the construction phase to create temporary jobs for local contractors and suppliers.
Looking ahead
When asked about the long‑term vision, Meadows noted that the academy hopes the new campus will become a hub for community events, after‑school programs, and partnerships with local businesses. “Our goal is to nurture not just academic achievement but also character development rooted in Christian values,” she said.
Parents interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to attend upcoming information sessions hosted by the school. Enrollment for the 2027‑2028 academic year will open later this year, with priority given to families residing within Montgomery and surrounding counties.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by school staff, board members, and a handful of community volunteers who helped clear the site. As construction crews begin work, the academy’s leadership remains confident that the project will stay on schedule and within budget, delivering a high‑quality educational environment for Montgomery’s youth.
Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.
