Communications
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
Brenda Box Named 2025-2026 Alabama High School Assistant Principal of the Year
Mobile, Ala. – December 4, 2025: Mrs. Brenda Sue Box, assistant principal at Mary G. Montgomery High School in the Mobile County Public School System, has been named the 2025-2026
District Nominees Named for Alabama’s NAESP National Distinguished Principal
Montgomery, Ala. – November 18, 2025: The Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators (AAESA), an affiliate of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS), proudly announces the 2025 district
Katherine Burgin Named 2025-2026 CLAS Secretary of the Year
Orange Beach, Ala., December 3, 2025 — The Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) is proud to announce that Mrs. Katherine “Kathy” Burgin, secretary in the Teaching and Learning