Eagle Eye Digital MediaMobile County SchoolsPrincipal: Mrs. Jennifer FetnerSuperintendent: Mr. Chresal Threadgill The Eagle Eye Digital Media Program at Semmes Elementary School was designed to address declines in student achievement, engagement, and attendance while supporting implementation of Alabama’s Digital Literacy and Computer Science standards. Following decreases in academic performance and increased chronic absenteeism, the school…
Fins Up Culture Enterprise City Schools Principal: Mr. Jonathan Booth Superintendent: Dr. Zel Thomas The F.I.N.S. Up Culture program at Dauphin Junior High School established a unifying framework, defining the values students need to thrive. Built on the pillars of Family, Integrity, Never Quit, and Service, the program transformed the school into a place of…
Agriculture Mobile County Schools Principal: Mr. David Sprinkle Superintendent: Mr. Chresal Threadgill The Agriscience program at Alma Bryant High School served as a comprehensive, hands-on educational experience designed to prepare students for college, careers, and leadership within Alabama’s diverse agricultural industry. Students participated in a variety of laboratory-based learning environments, including a small cattle operation,…
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.
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.
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.
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—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.
In this issue of CLAS School (Winter 2026), Alabama’s education leaders close the semester with purpose and gratitude while gearing up for an impactful legislative session. Highlights include an eye-opening educator exchange in Australia, updates on Alabama’s rising national rankings, insights on the FOCUS Act, legal commentary, and practical leadership strategies for the holiday season. Plus, meet the 2025–2026 CLAS Secretary of the Year and get the latest on advocacy, professional learning, and upcoming events across the state.
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.
