2025 Pell City Board of Education Finalists

Area: St. Clair County (PCSS Attendance Zone)

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 6

Education: B.S.in Business Management, Jacksonville State University. 

Occupation: Director, Buford’s Construction, LLC.

Experience: With 15 years in federal public service and 7 years in private industry, including overseeing 1,200 trades workers, brings a strong understanding of bureaucracy, business growth (scaling a company from 60 to 1,200 employees), and diverse operational areas like HR, contracts, and IT. Offers a unique perspective on both four-year and technical education paths.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, relatives employed by PCSS.

Community involvement: Personnel Committee, Cropwell Baptist Church. Coach, Pell City Parks & Recreation.

Reasons for applying: As a Pell City School System resident and parent, I understand the profound impact a successful school system has on children, home values, businesses, and community involvement. With 15 years in public service, 7 in private industry, and diverse experience across different school systems, I offer a unique “outside” perspective and aim to represent county-zoned students and residents effectively. I recognize the demanding nature of a board position, balancing taxpayer concerns with staff and student needs, a decision I’ve made after careful consideration. If appointed, my goal is to diligently serve our residents, embrace new ideas, and strive to create the best possible school system that exceeds expectations and honors the community’s trust in Amendment 1.

Goals for PCSS: Effective leadership is paramount, starting with hiring the most qualified Superintendent to foster a strong board relationship and ripple positive effects throughout all schools. Academic success is crucial, aiming for our 6A school to be a state leader and benchmark by expanding elective opportunities, like early Spanish, to prepare students for successful careers. We also need to prioritize reviewing survey data to understand parents’ needs better. Finally, a comprehensive plan is essential to accommodate Pell City and the zoned district’s rapid growth.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 38

Education: B.S. in Nursing, The University of Alabama

Occupation: RN and Utilization Management Specialist, UAB Health Systems

Experience: Fifteen years in healthcare leadership as a registered nurse specializing in adolescent psychiatry at UAB Hospital, primarily focused on mental health and psychiatric care. Direct experience in student mental health, coping strategies, and fostering school-family communication. Civic engagement includes serving on the Pell City Planning and Zoning Committee, advocating for family and school-age children’s needs, and extensive volunteer work with the Logan Martin Civitan and Pell City Parks and Recreation. 

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, relatives employed by PCSS, volunteer, PCHS graduate.

Community involvement: Member, Logan Martin Civitan Club. Coach, Pell City Parks & Recreation. Member, Pell City Planning and Zoning Committee. Volunteer, First Baptist Church.

Reasons for applying: A lifelong Pell City resident and healthcare professional, I am deeply committed to serving on the Board of Education to enhance educational opportunities. My 15 years as a registered nurse, specializing in adolescent psychiatric care at UAB Hospital, provide unique insight into students’ mental health challenges and the need for robust support systems. I actively contribute to the community as a youth baseball coach, a member of the Planning and Zoning Committee, and a Sunday School volunteer at First Baptist Church. My goal is to ensure our schools are well-resourced, educators are supported, and students gain both academic knowledge and essential life skills, believing in the Pell City School System’s incredible potential.

Goals for PCSS: Over the next 3 to 5 years, the Pell City Board of Education should focus on sustaining fiscal responsibility while proactively addressing challenges in culture, growth, and student well-being. A critical goal involves strengthening the student-teacher culture through professional development, communication, and social-emotional learning, fostering a supportive environment. The district must also implement a strategic plan for physical and demographic growth, ensuring equitable zoning and balanced resource distribution as the community expands. Finally, continued investment in the whole student experience—including extracurriculars, career programs, and mental health services—is essential for holistic development and academic success.

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Area: St. Clair County (PCSS Attendance Zone)

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 34

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, University of West Alabama. M.S. in Elementary Education, Jacksonville State University. M.S. in Educational Leadership, Jacksonville State University.

Occupation: Teacher, Oxford City Schools

Experience: Twenty years in education teaching diverse subjects from kindergarten to high school, including five years in PCSS as a teacher and ARI Reading Coach. Leadership experience in mentoring teachers and shaping school-wide initiatives on curriculum, professional development, and discipline through various committees.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, former employee of PCSS,  PCHS graduate.

Community involvement: Member, Riverside Beautification Organization

Reasons for applying: “I love this community. I love the traditions. I plan to live the rest of my life in Riverside. My children are raising their children in the PCSS district. I believe the school system has so much untapped potential. I want PCSS to be a school system all educators would love to work in and a system all parents would love for their children to attend. I feel as a PCHS Alumni, a veteran educator, and someone that is passionate about education, I would be a valuable addition to the board of education.”

Goals for PCSS: Prioritizing students means ensuring all staff are supported and have what they need to succeed, fostering a positive school culture where teachers, students, and parents thrive together. Teachers are invaluable experts who need their voices heard, as their direct work with students provides unique insights often overlooked. A key goal should be to fully fund all extracurricular activities, removing financial barriers so every student can participate and gain essential life skills. Ultimately, every effort within the school system must align with what is best for the students.

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Area: St. Clair County (PCSS Attendance Zone)

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 8

Education: B.A. in History, Auburn University. Juris Doctor, Birmingham School of Law.

Occupation: Assistant District Attorney, St. Clair County DA’s Office

Experience: Extensive legal experience encompassing roles as a Law Clerk, Assistant Public Defender, and Assistant District Attorney including courtroom experience across preliminary hearings, trials, and various dockets in both District and Circuit Courts.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, relatives employed by PCSS, provides services or conducts business with PCSS.

Community involvement: Member, Alabama State Bar Association. Member, Pell City Rotary Club. Member, St. Clair County Bar Association.

Reasons for applying: Serving on the Pell City Board of Education is an opportunity to significantly impact our children’s future and the community’s strength through quality education. I am committed to supporting educators, advocating for student achievement, and ensuring efficient resource allocation. I prioritize transparency, collaboration, and accountability, fostering strong communication between the school system, parents, and the wider community. My goal is to help shape policies that promote excellence, equity, and innovation, preparing students not just academically, but for life beyond the classroom.

Goals for PCSS: Over the next 3 to 5 years, the Pell City Board of Education should focus on sustaining fiscal responsibility while addressing key challenges in school culture, growth, and student well-being. This includes strengthening the student-teacher culture through professional development and improved communication, alongside strategic planning for physical and demographic growth to ensure equitable zoning and resource distribution. Furthermore, the Board must prioritize academic growth and achievement, expand extracurricular and career readiness programs, and invest in school safety and mental health resources. Ultimately, fostering transparency and collaboration with all stakeholders will be crucial for the continuous improvement of Pell City Schools.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 10

Education: B.S. in Nursing, Jacksonville State University. Master’s in Business Administration from University of North Alabama.

Occupation: Chief Nursing Officer, UAB St. Vincent’s East

Experience: Extensive background in nursing and leadership. Has implemented harm reduction programs and possesses a strong understanding of policy, budgeting, financial analysis, and regulatory compliance. Experience includes presenting to governing boards and navigating human resources, all while fostering consensus across diverse teams.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, relatives employed by PCSS, provides services or conducts business with PCSS, volunteer.

Community involvement: Committee Chair, BSA Troop 4199. Member, Alabama State Nurse Association. Attendee, Center Point Chamber of Commerce. Speaker, Center Point Leadership.

Reasons for applying: As a Pell City resident and parent, I believe a strong school system is vital for our children’s future and the community’s growth, attracting both citizens and businesses. Recognizing past negative perceptions, I’ve actively educated myself on our system’s strengths and areas for improvement, viewing the transition to an appointed board as an opportunity for diverse expertise to advance education, extracurriculars, well-being, and safety. My 25 years as a nurse leader provide strong experience in service, financial knowledge, and outcome-driven management, directly applicable to school system leadership. Ultimately, I aim to enhance excellence, improve communication, boost parental involvement, and promote the positive aspects of our schools to the broader community, understanding that public perception significantly impacts a system’s success.

Goals for PCSS: Pell City Schools offer diverse opportunities, strong college and career readiness, and dedicated staff, yet inconsistent teaching methods, over-reliance on technology, and imbalanced student recognition need addressing. Key challenges include managing growth in nearing-capacity facilities, necessitating a long-term plan for consolidation and smooth student transitions. Furthermore, financial barriers limit extracurricular participation for many students, underscoring a need for collective support and aid. Finally, improving communication and parental engagement across all schools is crucial to better address community voices and ensure the system’s continued positive perception.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 50

Education: B.S. in Business Management, Jacksonville State University.

Occupation: Fixed Operations Consultant, Town & Country Ford

Experience: Possesses strong leadership and organizational skills, complemented by over 400 hours of training with the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB). Dedicated team player with a thorough understanding of the logistical demands and responsibilities of a board member.

PCSS Connections: Current Pell City Board of Education member, relatives employed by PCSS, PCHS graduate.

Community involvement: Member, D.A.R.E. Board. Deacon and Treasurer, First Baptist Church South.

Reasons for applying: “I have the leadership skills and ability to continue to serve our kids and community. I would like to continue pursuing excellence one student at a time by partnering with the community, empowering dynamic learners, and achieving maximum potential. I understand quite well that the board is a policy-making body, and members are the chief advisors to the superintendent on community attitudes. Board members do not manage the day-to-day operations of a school district; they see to it that the system is managed well by professionals.”

Goals for PCSS: The Pell City Board of Education should prioritize creating a safe and inclusive learning environment, fostering a culture of excellence, and maximizing student achievement through stakeholder partnerships. Ensuring highly effective educators are equipped to meet diverse learner needs is crucial for continued success. The district already excels in student achievement, fine arts, and extracurriculars, and benefits from strong community support despite challenges. Moving forward, recruiting and retaining special education, math, and science teachers will be vital for the school system’s future.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 45

Education: B.S. in Mass Communications, University of Montevallo.

Occupation: Founder & CEO, Eventful Media Group, Inc.

Experience: Possessing diverse experience, has leveraged a business background to understand economic impact and prepare students for higher education, trades, or entrepreneurship. Experience includes recruiting students for a university and leading a minority education scholarship program, coupled with teaching English abroad, offering global and cultural competency insights.

PCSS Connections: PCHS graduate.

Community involvement: Member, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Board Member, ZeroZero Foundation.

Reasons for applying: As a proud Pell City School System alumna, I am deeply committed to ensuring every student receives a purposeful education that prepares them for success. My background in media, marketing, and community engagement reinforces my belief that strong schools are the foundation of a thriving community. I seek a Board of Education position to advocate for equitable resources, innovative learning, and student-influenced decision-making. I aim to leverage my skills and passion to strengthen our district, empower educators, and inspire the next generation toward full success.

Goals for PCSS: As a Board of Education member, my primary goal would be to ensure every student has an equitable opportunity to succeed, focusing on four key priorities over the next 3-5 years. First, we must enhance academic excellence through innovative tools, expanded career and technical education, and increased access to college and scholarships. Second, I will advocate for supporting extracurricular growth, including athletics and arts programs, recognizing their vital role in student development and providing scholarship pathways. Third, upgrading facilities and infrastructure remains crucial to provide a safe, modern learning environment and accommodate future growth. Finally, strengthening community and parental engagement through stronger partnerships and increased involvement opportunities will foster student success and overall school improvement.

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Area: St. Clair County (PCSS Attendance Zone)

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 20

Education: B.S., Herzing University

Occupation: Strategic Planning, AT&T

Experience: Manages strategy for a large telecom provider, overseeing significant budgets and complex projects, applying strong skills in strategic planning, financial management, and collaborative leadership.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, volunteer.

Community involvement: Member, Iola Roberts Elementary PTO. Coach, Pell City Parks & Recreation.

Reasons for applying: I’m deeply interested in serving on the Pell City Board of Education, driven by a strong belief in education’s transformative power. My professional background in strategic management and budgeting has equipped me with essential skills in goal-setting, planning, and collaboration, which I aim to apply to benefit our schools. My goal is to help Pell City ensure every child receives a high-quality education, preparing them thoroughly for the future. Serving on the board is my commitment to enhancing our community by providing the next generation with vital opportunities and resources.

Goals for PCSS: The Board of Education should focus on improving student achievement by supporting programs and resources that prepare all students for college and careers. This includes enhancing teacher quality through continuous training and professional development. Additionally, efforts should be made to reduce class sizes for more personalized student attention and to increase opportunities for advanced coursework like AP and dual enrollment.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 46

Education: B.S. in Secondary Education, UAB. Masters in Instructional Leadership, The University of Alabama. Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership, Auburn University.

Occupation: Principal, Calhoun County School System

Experience: With 26 years of experience across all school levels, including roles as an instructional aide, teacher, coach, and principal (high school, middle school, and elementary), offers a unique and empathetic perspective on educational challenges. A lifelong Pell City resident and parent deeply invested in the school system’s success and ability to attract business and industry.

PCSS Connections: Children enrolled in PCSS, former employee, PCHS graduate.

Community involvement: None reported

Reasons for applying: As a proud Pell City School System alumnus, I’m eager to serve on the school board to help our district thrive and overcome challenges related to zoning and funding. Our district has the potential to be a shining example, demonstrating sound instructional practices, responsible fiscal management, and a commitment to recruiting and retaining top talent. We should expand offerings for both college-bound students and those pursuing career training, building on our current career technical opportunities. My vision is for Pell City to be viewed not as a stepping stone, but as a destination for quality education.

Goals for PCSS: For our school system to remain viable, we must embrace evolution by staying current with trends like dual enrollment, career technical education, and hybrid learning, while ensuring a solid, well-rounded education. We’ve done well partnering with Jefferson State for dual enrollment and career tech, and should continue exploring innovative programs like manufacturing and robotics, alongside facility upgrades for optimal learning environments. While appreciating renewed focus on extracurriculars, we must ensure equitable support for all programs, from fine arts to minor sports. Finally, improving our school system’s culture is crucial; addressing rifts among students, staff, and stakeholders through active listening and decisive action will foster a more unified environment.

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Area: St. Clair County (PCSS Attendance Zone)

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 20

Education: B.S., Auburn University.

Occupation: Vice President, K.L. Breeden & Sons, LLC

Experience: Draws on over 20 years of management experience with decision-making and oversight, complemented by a deep personal investment in the Pell City community and its children, including extensive interaction with local families through church programs.

PCSS Connections: Children enrolled in PCSS, relatives employed by PCSS, PCHS graduate.

Community involvement: Deacon and Volunteer, Cropwell Baptist Church. Coach, Victory Christian School.

Reasons for applying: “I have three children in the school system and care about their education as well as the education of children within the community. I believe that I can positively contribute to the school system if selected to serve as a board member.”

Goals for PCSS: “The goal of the school system should be to create an environment to attract the best possible educators, administrators, coaches, and support staff, give them the tools required to succeed, and then allow them to do their jobs. I am certain that there are things that could be done better but I’m not willing to offer criticism towards anything that I have not been willing or able to be involved.”

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 6.5

Education: B.S., Auburn University.

Occupation: Operator, Chick-fil-A

Experience: Five years’ experience teaching and coaching in public education. Demonstrated ability to lead large groups, mentor students, develop people, and build consensus, focusing on improving educational outcomes.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, provides services or conducts business with PCSS.

Community involvement: Member, Pell City Chamber of Commerce. Member / Trustee, Cropwell Baptist Church. Member, Pell City Basketball Booster Club. Member, Pell City Soccer Booster Club.

Reasons for applying: “There are many reasons that I would like to serve on the board of Education. First and foremost, I believe education is the foundation for success in life, and a strong school system is the foundation on which we can build a flourishing community. Having two children who graduated from Pell City Schools and two more children currently attending Pell City Schools, I would like provide them and their classmates every opportunity to grow and succeed in life. As an employer, I know a strong school system will help our community develop and will attract more growth. Finally, I would like to serve Pell City and its young people. Investing in our future will make Pell City strong for years to come.”

Goals for PCSS: Pell City Schools have the potential to be excellent, and we must prioritize students by providing the best environment for their growth and success in academics, extracurriculars, and life. This means ensuring top-notch facilities that communicate our value for them, alongside rigorous academic challenges. We should support and expand successful programs like college interest meetings, ACT prep, and vocational training, ensuring all students are prepared for their chosen paths. Finally, a master plan for future facility upgrades and strategic teacher recruitment and retention are crucial to attract and keep high-performing educators who can truly engage and develop our students.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 1

Education: B.S., American University. Juris Doctorate, The University of Alabama.

Occupation: Director of Operations, Cloud & Willis, LLC.

Experience: Holds a law degree with experience in education-related legal issues. Taught college and graduate courses in criminal justice and healthcare law, developing expertise in school safety and security. Currently manages budgets, facilities, and HR. Volunteers extensively in Pell City schools.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, relatives employed by PCSS, volunteer.

Community involvement: Volunteer, CEPA. Volunteer, Eden PTO Dads. Volunteer, Duran Jr. Reality Check.

Reasons for applying: With five children having attended Pell City Schools over 12 years, I’ve gained extensive insight as a parent, volunteer, and substitute, fostering deep passion for the system’s employees and students. My background includes teaching college and graduate classes, alongside a law practice that involved education through Guardian Ad Litem and student representation. In my current role as Director of Operations for a multi-state law firm, I manage budgets, human resources, and facilities, giving me comprehensive administrative expertise. I’m uniquely suited to represent Pell City’s students, parents, and citizens, aiming to leverage my knowledge and passion to make our school system one of the nation’s best.

Goals for PCSS: My goals for Pell City Schools include continuing the momentum of facilities upgrades, ensuring our schools remain top-tier. I aim to significantly improve physical security across all campuses, leveraging my criminology expertise to identify and implement necessary enhancements in collaboration with local law enforcement. Furthermore, I seek to refine Human Resources practices, empowering administrators to consistently address teacher performance and boost overall staff morale. By focusing on these areas, I believe we can create a safer, more efficient, and positively driven environment for everyone.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 1.5

Education: Associate’s Degree, Lawson State Community College. Bachelor’s Degree, Faulkner University. Master’s Degree, University of Memphis. Business Doctorate, University of the Cumberlands.

Occupation: Assistant Professor of Business Administration, Talladega College.

Experience: Holds a Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on management and the cost of educational quality, providing expertise in strategic planning, financial analysis, and data-driven improvement. Brings business and strategic leadership in operations, HR, and budget management, alongside a commitment to bridging the gap between schools and businesses, demonstrated through community involvement and mentorship.

PCSS Connections: None listed

Community involvement: Mentor, Men to Boys, Glencliff Elementary. Mentor, Seeds of P.R.A.I.S.E.

Reasons for applying: As an educator, business leader, and community advocate, I’m passionate about improving education through strategic leadership and innovative solutions. With a Doctorate in Business Administration focused on management and education finance, my expertise in business operations, HR, and policy uniquely positions me to contribute to the Pell City Board of Education. I currently serve as an Assistant Professor, mentoring students and advising organizations, and have prior experience teaching business and marketing in high schools. If appointed, my priorities include expanding community and business partnerships, strengthening CTE programs, and enhancing teacher support and retention.

Goals for PCSS: Over the next 3-5 years, Pell City Schools should prioritize three key areas. First, focus on strengthening Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs, expanding pathways in entrepreneurship, business, and STEM, and enhancing technology integration. Second, a significant increase in teacher support and retention is crucial, achieved through competitive salaries, professional development, and mentorship. Lastly, the board should expand community and business partnerships to secure internships, apprenticeships, and dual enrollment opportunities. A key initiative to achieve this is launching a Pell City Schools Business & Innovation Council (BIC) to foster deeper connections, potentially attracting private-sector funding and reducing reliance on traditional tax-based funding.

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Area: St. Clair County (PCSS Attendance Zone)

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 47

Education: B.S. in Nursing, Jacksonville State University.

Occupation: Chairperson, Mustard Seed Society.

Experience: Gained direct insight into the Pell City School system and surrounding areas by working with troubled youth through The Mustard Seed Society. This non-profit experience also honed skills in financial management, supply acquisition, and collaborative problem-solving.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, provides services or conducts business with PCSS, PCHS graduate.

Community involvement: Volunteer, Mustard Seed Society.

Reasons for applying: As a proud Pell City Schools alumnus and a parent of two current students, I have a deep personal investment in enhancing a system that already serves a great purpose. I believe education is fundamental for children’s futures, offering not just academic knowledge but also crucial life skills that prepare them for adulthood. While our schools are performing well, I am convinced there’s always room for growth and improvement. My hope, if selected for the Board, is to help guide Pell City Schools in producing highly functional, well-educated young adults.

Goals for PCSS: A core goal should be to develop a comprehensive leadership training program for both staff and students within Pell City Schools, recognizing that strong leadership drives program success. I commend the schools’ initiative in directly addressing student test scores and emphasizing areas for improvement. However, I believe there’s a significant opportunity to enhance community involvement, as many parents feel disengaged and unheard. Fostering greater participation will create a more connected and supportive school environment.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 13

Education: Bachelor’s Degree, The University of Alabama.

Occupation: President, Vulcan Industries.

Experience: “I have managed high performance business units in three different states and diverse multi-department teams across the entire US. This has allowed be to lead a very diverse group of team members to work toward common goals. I believe my experience in leadership, employee relations and business unit management, will translate well to the Pell City School Board. I also serve on a local non-profit board and support the United Way of Central Alabama in many ways.”

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS.

Community involvement: Board Member, Lakeside Hospice. Board Member, Nussbaum Center for Entrepreneurship. Volunteer, United Way of Central Alabama.

Reasons for applying: “Growing up in a small Alabama town, I appreciated the pride my community had in academic and athletic achievements for young people in the school system. I would like to pay that pride forward. I believe the Pell City School System is capable of more and this is my chance to assist. Most importantly, this is about offering our young people the best chance of success during their time in the school system and after graduation.”

Goals for PCSS: “I believe the goals below should be our starting points. As a new board we need to work with Administrators, the City Council, and the Community to set specific goals in each of the areas below. The Board, City, and Community should support the administrators in achieving the goals and vice versa hold accountable to the results based on those goals. A. Leadership, B. Academic and Athletic Achievement, and C. Accountability.”

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 65

Education: School Administrator Certificate, Jacksonville State University. Master of Science, School Counselor, Jacksonville State University. Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Jacksonville State University.

Occupation: Principal: CEO, St. Clair Association of REALTORS.

Experience: Bringing 38 years of diverse educational and professional experience, including a Doctorate in School Administration, has served extensively within the Pell City School System as a Principal, Director of Counseling, Lead High School Counselor, and Teacher across multiple grade levels. Currently an Association Executive/CEO with national certification in association management, demonstrating expertise in leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement.

PCSS Connections: Children or relatives enrolled in PCSS, relatives employed by PCSS, former PCSS employee.

Community involvement: Member, Pell City Chamber of Commerce. Certified Member, National Association Certified Executives.

Reasons for applying: Inspired by the theme “every child, every chance, every day,” I aspire to serve on the Pell City School System board, bringing extensive experience as a student, parent, teacher, counselor, and principal. A school system operates as a business, with the board acting as architects for its continuous growth and success. Board members must be engaged, respectful, and cooperative, working as a team to represent the system and community effectively. With 10 years of leadership and board training, I offer a unique perspective to ensure our academic and physical structures continually evolve upon a strong foundation for all students.

Goals for PCSS: Over the next three to five years, the Pell City Board of Education should prioritize increasing academic growth for all students, making facility improvements, and hiring and retaining highly skilled staff. While acknowledging the positive impact of dedicated teachers and recent facility upgrades, the system must proactively address challenges such as potential population increases impacting class sizes and staffing. Furthermore, a critical focus should be on enhancing transparency, ensuring all staff utilize best practices, and strategically developing both college prep and career technical programs. The new board will also face the crucial task of selecting a superintendent, a decision vital for the future growth and advancement of Pell City Schools and the community.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: 17

Education: B.S. in Accounting & Management, University of North Alabama

Occupation: Education Consultant, Criterion Consulting.

Experience: Possesses over 42 years of diverse experience across 29 school systems, including significant involvement in construction projects, software upgrades, and navigating severe proration. Served on state intervention teams, focusing on HR and involuntary transfers, and assisted in writing board policies, job descriptions, and salary schedules. Also played a key role in the startup of City school systems with experience in developing budgets and financial statements.

PCSS Connections: Former PCSS employee, employer provides services to PCSS.

Community involvement: Member, New Life Methodist Church.

Reasons for applying: “I am interested in serving on the school board because it is an opportunity for me to give back to the community in an area where I have a vast amount of experience, and I am at a point in my life that I have the time to devote to being on the board. Providing quality education to children is not only a vital part of a community that impacts the entire population, it is also a responsibility of that community.”

Goals for PCSS: Pell City Schools should focus on improving the educational experience for all students, equipping them with skills for workforce entry, trades, or higher education by assessing and implementing the current strategic plan. This includes providing robust extracurricular activities to build character and encourage attendance. A key priority is employing and equipping qualified staff across all areas, ensuring they have the necessary tools to excel. Finally, the system must maintain financial health and develop both short- and long-term capital plans to ensure facilities meet the system’s evolving needs.

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Area: City Limits, City of Pell City

Years lived in Pell City Schools Attendance Zone: Not listed

Education: MBA,SUNY.  MTS, Beeson Divinity at Samford University. B.A., UAB.

Occupation: Account Manager, Stryker Medical.

Experience: Possesses a unique leadership approach shaped by military service and diverse leadership roles and emphasizes service and collaboration. Commitment to education shown through establishing three endowed scholarships and prior experience as a business owner and strategic advisor, including guiding a seminary to financial stability.

PCSS Connections: Provides services to or conducts business with PCSS.

Community involvement: Chair, Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Chair, Northeastern Seminary at Roberts Wesleyan University. Chair, Crosswinds Wesleyan Church.

Reasons for applying: True progress in education requires a united community, where putting students first and striving for excellence isn’t optional, but essential. A strong school system, like Logan Martin Lake, can be a vital economic engine for Pell City, attracting residents and businesses through a thoughtful investment in education. Having personally navigated both public and private education with my four children, I’ve experienced the system’s strengths and struggles firsthand. My background as a professor, director of recruiting, and advisor to institutions facing financial challenges has equipped me with collaborative leadership skills, ready to work alongside all stakeholders to achieve educational excellence.

Goals for PCSS: Pell City Schools have shown positive progress in reducing chronic absenteeism, increasing academic achievement and graduation rates, and enhancing college and career readiness, largely due to recent facility updates from the 5-mill property tax. The system is also commendably expanding student career pathways, offering diverse options from skilled trades to college preparatory programs. However, key challenges remain, including the need to maximize funding through strategic and transparent spending, and fostering greater collaboration with city stakeholders to amplify impact. Ultimately, raising the overall School Report Card Grade is a critical priority, as it directly reflects student success, boosts community confidence, and strengthens the local economy.

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