API President and CEO Stephanie Smith joins the other 2026 Ed-Prize winner and two Civics Prize winners on stage at the State Policy Network’s Annual Meeting.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Josie Ellis
Director of External Relations
251-303-5286
Josie@alabamapolicy.org
The Alabama Policy Institute Accepts Highly Sought-After Ed-Prize Award for Opportunity Anchors Initiative
Birmingham, AL – This week, the Alabama Policy Institute (API) proudly accepted the 2026 SPN Ed-Prize for its Opportunity Anchors Initiative at the State Policy Network’s Annual Meeting.
The Ed-Prize, made possible by Stand Together Trust, is awarded to state policy organizations developing scalable innovations that address challenges and improve K-12 education. API’s Opportunity Anchors Initiative will empower students, families, and communities to make the most of the increasing educational freedom in Alabama thanks to the passage and expansion of the CHOOSE Act.
“I am truly honored to accept the Ed-Prize Award on behalf of API, and we are grateful for the SPN’s support as we work to bridge the gap between policy and implementation so that families across Alabama have access to the best possible education options for their children,” said Stephanie Smith, President and CEO of the Alabama Policy Institute. “Through the Opportunity Anchors Initiative, API will equip communities with well-researched, comprehensive resources to facilitate the launch of micro-schools, cooperatives, and other learning programs.”
Families and community organizations are already exploring new options and ways to utilize existing resources and spaces. The Opportunity Anchors Initiative will provide practical guidance and information to help turn thoughtful ideas and a commitment to stewardship into meaningful new learning opportunities for Alabama students.
For more information about the API Opportunity Anchors Initiative, contact Stephanie Smith at stephanies@alabamapolicy.org.
About the Alabama Policy Institute
The Alabama Policy Institute (API) is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit research and education organization dedicated to strengthening free markets, limiting government, and supporting strong families across Alabama.FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact: admin@alabampolicy.org
