Dr. Mathew Epps Named 2024-2025 Alabama High School Principal of the Year

Columbiana, Ala, December 6, 2024: Dr. Mathew Epps, principal of the Career Technical High School in the Shelby County School System, has been named the 2024-2025 Alabama High School Principal of the Year by the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP). The Alabama High School Principal of the Year program is sponsored by American Fidelity. 

Dr. Epps has dedicated 19 years to education, with nine of those years in administrative roles. His innovative leadership has significantly enhanced the Career Technical High School, where he has prioritized building a positive school culture and expanding opportunities for students. Under his guidance, the school has implemented unique programs that promote student success, including credential offerings in fields like robotics, welding, and emergency medical services. Dr. Epps has also forged strong community and industry partnerships, providing students with invaluable work-based learning experiences and career opportunities. 

Through his dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment, Dr. Epps has ensured that students not only excel academically but also gain practical skills and career readiness. His leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, community involvement, and fostering a culture where students and staff alike are empowered to thrive. 

“Dr. Epps exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educational leader,” said Dr. Vic Wilson, executive director of AASSP and the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS). “His innovative approach, commitment to student achievement, and ability to cultivate meaningful partnerships have transformed the Career Technical High School into a beacon of excellence. We are proud to honor Dr. Epps as Alabama’s High School Principal of the Year.”  

Dr. Epps will be recognized at the Awards Luncheon during the 2025 CLAS Convention in June and again at the AASSP/AAMSP Fall Conference in November 2025. He will also represent Alabama in the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) High School Principal of the Year program, where he will compete alongside other state winners. 

For further information, please contact Alyssa Godfrey, Director of Communications and Technology at CLAS, at (800) 239-3616 or alyssa@clasleaders.org. 

About AASSP 
The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP) serves as a voice and resource for public school secondary administrators. AASSP is an affiliate association of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS), which provides a framework to connect dedicated school administrators with a network for professional growth and support. For more information, visit www.clasleaders.org/AASSP.  

About American Fidelity Assurance 
American Fidelity Assurance provides employee and employer benefit solutions tailored for education employees. As a long-time supporter of CLAS, they are proud sponsors of the Alabama High School Principal of the Year award, recognizing outstanding leadership in education. 

Photo: [Download Photo] 

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