City Schools

City Schools

In an effort to improve the educational experience of Gulf Shores students, the community of Gulf Shores brought the need to create a City School System to the attention of City Council.  After researching various options and possibilities, the City Council unanimously approved the formation of Gulf Shores City School District.  On December 4th 2017, the first Gulf Shores City Schools Board of Education was sworn into office.


The Gulf Shores City Board of Education is comprised of a 5-member team appointed by the City Council.  The purpose of the Gulf Shores City Board of Education is to work together with one voice toward one vision of creating exemplary learning experiences for the students of Gulf Shores. The School Board’s role is to provide governance and set policies for the district while abiding by Alabama education laws.

Gulf Shores City Schools Website

For more information, click here to view the new Gulf Shores City Schools website. 

Meet the Superintendent: 


Dr. Matt Akin has been an educator for over twenty-six years. Dr. Akin served as the superintendent of the Piedmont City School District for 14 years and was the superintendent of Huntsville City Schools before being selected as superintendent of Gulf Shores City Schools.  He began his tenure as the first superintendent of Gulf Shores City Schools on June 1, 2018.

Dr. Akin earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics/Secondary Education from Jacksonville State University and his Master of Arts in Mathematics/Education from the University of Alabama.  He received his Education Administration certification from Jacksonville State University and his doctorate in Educational Leadership from Samford University.

“I am excited to work with the Board of Education, parents, teachers, and community stakeholders to develop Gulf Shores City Schools into a national leader in academics and innovation.  We want to personalize learning for each student and prepare all graduates to be learners for life."

For questions or concerns, you may contact Dr. Akin at makin@gulfshorescityschools.org or 251-968-9873. 

Matt Akin headshot

Board Meetings:

Work Session Meetings will be held the first Thursday of every month at the Gulf Shores High School Library at 4 p.m. The purpose of these work sessions is to review and prioritize projects and goals for the Board. These meetings are open to the public. 

Regular School Board Meetings are held the second Thursday of every month at City Hall at 5 p.m. These meetings are open to the public. 

City Limits

To view the map to determine if you are within the city limits of Gulf Shores, click here
To view the Annexation Application, click here.