Our Purpose The purpose of Bessemer City Schools is to educate and empower our students to successfully compete in a global society. Vision The vision of Bessemer City Schools is to serve as a model of excellence by preparing all students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to be successful in their unique endeavors. Facts About Bessemer City ... * Bessemer is situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountain Range, less than 15 miles from downtown Birmingham. * The climate is mild, with an average annual temperature of 62.4 degrees Fahrenheit and average annual rainfall of 57.12 inches. * Has a population of over 27,000 people * Has a public school enrollment of over 3,000 * Major regional enterprises include a wide range of high-tech manufacturing concerns, and increasing number of service industries, higher education in the form of state universities and private colleges, and a growing convention industry.