Communications
Dr. Justin Hefner Honored with CLAS Leadership Award
Dr. Justin Hefner, Superintendent of Homewood City Schools and architect of ALSAIL’s organizational transition, has been named recipient of the 2026 CLAS Leadership Award, sponsored by Horace Mann Companies.
Dr. Vic Wilson Honored with Dr. James A. Street Award
Dr. Vic Wilson, CLAS Executive Director from 2017 to 2025 and architect of the landmark Principals Act, has been honored with the 2026 Dr. James A. Street Award for his exemplary service to Alabama’s school leaders.
Sheffield Education Foundation Receives CLAS Little Red School House Award
The Sheffield Education Foundation has been named recipient of the 2026 Little Red School House Award, recognizing more than three decades of investment in Sheffield City Schools — including over $300,000 given in the past three years alone.
CLAS Recognizes Schools of Distinction & Names Banner Schools
CLAS recognized thirty-two Schools of Distinction across Alabama’s eight State School Board Districts and announced the 2025 CLAS Banner Schools on April 27, 2026, during an awards luncheon in Prattville. The CLAS Banner School program, created in 2001, recognizes schools that showcase outstanding programs and service to students. With 189 schools nominated statewide by their superintendents, these honored schools reflect the dedication of educators, students, and communities working together to create impactful learning experiences. The awards program is made possible through generous sponsorship from American Fidelity Assurance, Bailey Education Group, and Ward Scott Morris Architecture, Inc.
Florence School Leader Dr. Roderick Sheppard Named Finalist for NASSP Advocacy Champion of the Year Award
Dr. Rod Sheppard, deputy superintendent of Florence City Schools and NASSP Coordinator on the AASSP Board of Directors, has been named a finalist for the NASSP Advocacy Champion of the Year Award. The national recognition honors school leaders whose advocacy efforts influence education policy and elevate the voices of principals, students, and school communities.
Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools – Elementary’s Dr. Preeti Nichani Honored as Alabama’s 2026 NAESP National Distinguished Principal
Dr. Preeti Nichani, principal of Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools–Elementary in Tuscaloosa City Schools, has been named Alabama’s NAESP National Distinguished Principal. The award recognizes outstanding school leaders who demonstrate excellence in instructional leadership, student success, and school community engagement.
Florence B. Mathis Elementary’s Erica Cruthirds Named Alabama’s NAESP National Outstanding Elementary Assistant Principal
Erica Cruthirds, assistant principal of Florence B. Mathis Elementary School in Baldwin County Schools, has been named Alabama’s NAESP National Outstanding Elementary Assistant Principal. The award recognizes assistant principals who demonstrate exceptional instructional leadership and a commitment to student success.
Three Alabama Principals Named Finalists for Alabama’s 2026 NAESP National Distinguished Principal
Three Alabama principals—Dr. Melvin Love, Dr. Preeti Nichani, and Ms. Sheneta Smith—have been named finalists for Alabama’s NAESP National Distinguished Principal award. The honoree will be selected following site visits and announced in spring 2026.
CLAS Names 2025 Schools of Distinction
The Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) has announced the 2024 Schools of Distinction, recognizing innovative programs and outstanding achievements in public education across the state.
Clint Brannon Named 2025-2026 Alabama Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year
Boaz, Ala. – December 10, 2025: Mr. Clint Brannon, assistant principal at Sardis Middle School in Etowah County Schools, has been named the 2025-2026 Alabama Middle School Assistant Principal of