This Alabama school leads the state in workforce readiness

Cullman High School is setting the standard for career preparedness in Alabama. A fresh report from the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama reveals that the school’s Class of 2025 achieved the highest workforce readiness rate in the entire state.

A Standout Performance

An impressive 87% of Cullman’s Class of 2025 earned the designation of workforce-ready based on ACT WorkKeys scores. This mark is a notable improvement over the 80% rate the school posted in 2024 and puts them nearly back at their 2022 peak of 88%.

"This achievement is possible because of a truly collaborative effort between our teachers, partners, administrators and families," said Lindsay Brannon, Cullman City Schools director of academic affairs. "By working together and staying focused on real-world readiness, we are equipping our students with the skills they need to succeed in both college and today’s workforce."

Statewide Trends vs. Local Success

While Cullman continues to excel, the broader picture across Alabama shows a different story. Statewide, the rate of seniors considered workforce-ready dropped from a 62% peak in 2023 to 56% in 2025. ACT WorkKeys, which evaluates math, reading, and comprehension skills specifically tailored for professional environments, has been an optional measure since 2015.

"While statewide data shows a decline in WorkKeys attainment, Cullman City Schools continues to move in the opposite direction," said Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff. "Our increase to 87% workforce readiness reflects a deliberate and sustained effort to ensure our graduates are fully prepared for success beyond high school."

The Importance of Certification

Students earn the "career-ready" designation by securing a silver, gold, or platinum certificate through the WorkKeys assessment. However, shifting priorities in school districts—with many opting for dual enrollment or career technical education since the test became non-mandatory in 2020—have impacted overall participation rates.

Participation remains high in areas like Tuscaloosa, while counties such as Jefferson and Shelby have seen declines. Meanwhile, other top performers include Homewood City, Oneonta City, and Hartselle City, all maintaining percentages in the 80s. At the other end of the spectrum, districts like Perry County (28%), Greene County (35%), and Russell County (38%) recorded the lowest readiness percentages.

Kallhoff noted that the focus remains on student outcomes regardless of the path chosen after graduation. "Our goal is simple. Every student who walks across the stage should be prepared with a plan, with skills, and with opportunity," he said.