Shelby County Schools

Happy School Social Worker Week! 🌟 This week, we celebrate and express our deepest gratitude to our incredible school social workers who go above and beyond every day to support our students, families, and staff. School social workers play a vital role in ensuring student success—helping to remove barriers to learning, providing emotional and social support, and connecting families with valuable resources. Their compassion, dedication, and hard work make a lasting impact on our schools and communities. To all of our school social workers - Miranda McClanahan, Holly Pate, and Amanda Seeds: Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the well-being of our students. Your work does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate you today and every day! 💐👏 #SchoolSocialWorkerWeek

Congratulations to our 8th grade Science Fair winners who advanced to the Central Alabama Science & Engineering Fair (CARSEF) competition held at UAB on Saturday, March 1. Out of the five projects representing Shelby County Schools, four placed at the competition. We are so proud of the following students who competed and represented Shelby County Schools. Christine White and Charlee Loomis, How does Surface Temperature Affect Fingerprints (2nd place Presented in Biology) - Vincent Middle School Sophie Davis, Biodegradable Plastic vs. Plastic Bottles (3rd Place presented in Physical Science) - Helena Middle School Hannah Reyes, Vision of Color (Honorable Mention presented in Physical Science) - Helena Middle School Xayden Lockett, The Affect of Surface Area on the Rate of Chemical Reactions (Honorable Mention presented in Medicine and Health Science) - Montevallo Middle School Clara Tuck LEDs and Batteries - Helena Middle School

🌟🔬 Shelby County Schools Science Fair Results! 🔬🌟 Our students amazed us with their creativity, curiosity, and scientific discoveries at the Shelby County Schools Science Fair! 🎉 Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and innovation. 🏆 Overall Winners 🥇 1st Place: Peyton Moody – Egg-Sploring Embryos (ChMS) 🥈 2nd Place: Mateo Jaramillo – Algae Biofuel or Alcohol (OMMS) 🥉 3rd Place: Beck Powers – Micro-organisms and Plants (OMMS) 🏅 Honorable Mentions ✨ Haleigh Szollosy – Food for Your Food (OMMS) ✨ Samuel Barron – The Fuel Duel (HMS) ✨ Anne "Bibb" Green – How Color Affects Your Hippocampus (OMMS) 💡 Science Superlatives 💡 "The Eureka Award" – Samuel Barron The Fuel Duel (HMS) "The Future Scientist Award" – Beck Powers Micro-organisms and Plants (OMMS) "The Problem-Solver Award" – Creed Stano Social Media Usage (MMS) "The Eco-Warrior Award" – Blaklee Davis & Kacy Bonifay Littering and the Effects on the Environment (VMHS) "The Data Dynamo Award" – Avery Doss Aromatherapy: Is It Your Remedy (MMS) "The Eye-Catcher Award" – Avery Walker Which Product is Better at Killing Bacteria? (CaMS) "The Curiosity Catalyst Award" – Owen Gurtler Will Fortnite Make You Fat? (ChMS) "The Wow Factor Award" – Peyton Moody Egg-Sploring Embryos (ChMS) 👏👏 Huge congratulations to all of our winners and participants for their dedication to scientific discovery! We can’t wait to see what you explore next!

Shelby County High School held a ribbon cutting sponsored by The Shelby County Chamber on February 24th to celebrate the new aviation classroom. We are in the second year of the program and the room renovations are now complete. We are excited about this program for high school students, providing an incredible opportunity for young minds to explore the world of aviation and aerospace. This hands-on program will offer students the chance to gain valuable skills in piloting, aviation technology, and aircraft maintenance, preparing them for future careers in this dynamic industry. With access to quality instruction, state-of-the-art simulators and equipment, students will be equipped to pursue various career paths, including commercial aviation, engineering, and air traffic control. Whether aspiring to be pilots or engineers, this program is a launching pad for future success, fostering innovation, leadership, and teamwork in the skies.

Congratulations to these Shelby County students who recently placed at the 2025 State Superintendent's Visual Arts Exhibit. OMES - Evelyn Rayl - Honorable mention OMIS - Kendyl Hannah - 3rd place CHMS - Jacob Mondragon - 3rd place HMS - Shelby Kemp - Honorable mention (not pictured) HHS - Sara Allen - 2nd place

A key highlight of the Showcase of Schools was the Class of 2025 Student Panel, where high school students from across the district—Barrett Mamock (Chelsea High), Aiden Poe (Vincent Middle High), Alyson Ragland (Helena High), John Shoemaker (Oak Mountain High), and Sydney Williams (Calera High)—shared their perspectives on their educational experiences and future aspirations. Moderated by Ali Mims, the discussion provided valuable insight into the pathways of possibilities these students have experienced in Shelby County Schools.

Shelby County Schools recently held its annual Showcase of Schools, hosted by the Shelby County Schools Education Foundation, highlighting the district’s commitment to innovation, leadership, and student achievement. The event, themed "Pathways to Possibility," brought together students, educators, and community members for an inspiring morning of student demonstrations and discussions on educational excellence. The program opened with a welcome from Ali Mims, a Chelsea High School student and Miss Alabama’s Teen, followed by the Presentation of Colors by Vincent Middle High School JROTC and a performance of the National Anthem by the Montevallo High School Choir. Teresa Vick from Regions gave sponsor remarks, emphasizing the importance of community support in education. Shelby County Schools Superintendent Dr. Lewis Brooks delivered remarks before attendees were dismissed to explore interactive student demonstrations throughout the venue. The showcase featured a diverse range of student-led exhibits, including STEM projects, leadership initiatives, fine arts presentations, and career-focused programs. Additionally, student leaders from various schools played a key role in guiding attendees through the exhibits and presentations. The event also featured special entertainment provided by the Helena High School Jazz Band, adding a celebratory touch to the morning. The Showcase of Schools once again demonstrated the outstanding talent and dedication of Shelby County Schools' students and educators. Through hands-on experiences and engaging discussions, attendees left with a deeper appreciation for the district’s commitment to preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world.

David Butts is now serving as principal at Montevallo High School. Butts has over 24 years of experience in public education and was most recently serving as the Principal at New Direction/Success. Before that, he served as an assistant principal at Helena High School. Mr. Butts earned a bachelor's degree in Physical Education from Faulkner University and a master's degree in Instructional Leadership from the University of West Alabama. 

Bobby Cummings has been named assistant principal at Oak Mountain High School. Mr. Cummings has 15 years of teaching experience in the Shelby County School district. He has served as an Administrative Assistant at Oak Mountain High School for the past three years. He was a physical education teacher and coach for 12 years at Helena Middle.  In 2017, Mr. Cummings was an Educator of the Year nominee for the district.   Mr. Cummings holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Montevallo, and a Master's of Arts in Education from UAB.  He also holds a Master's of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of West Alabama.

Natalie Landrum will serve as the next assistant principal of Helena Intermediate School. Mrs. Landrum has over 21 years of experience as a classroom teacher and most recently served as the Administrative Assistant at Helena Intermediate. She was recognized in both 2010 and 2018 as Helena Intermediate School’s Teacher of the Year and the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Year 2018. Additionally, she was a finalist for the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) in 2016. Mrs. Landrum holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Auburn University, a Master’s degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education (PreK– 6th grade) from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and a certification in Leadership and Administration (K-12) from the University of Montevallo.

The Sterling Castle once again provided a magical setting for the 2025 Special Needs Prom. With an Arabian Nights theme, the event was filled with beautiful décor, joyful dancing, and heartwarming moments that will be cherished for years to come. A highlight of the event was the crowning of this year's Prom King and Queen. William Burge from Chelsea High School was honored as Prom King, while Demearia Carson from Shelby County High School was crowned Prom Queen. The event would not have been possible without the support of teachers, staff, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure every student felt special. Peer helpers played a crucial role in making the event memorable, dancing alongside their classmates and sharing in the joy of the celebration. Special thanks to Victor and Misty Binkerd, owners of the Sterling Castle, Chris "DJ Fuzzy" Peters, and Tazikis, for your generous support of this event and Shelby County students.

We are collecting suggestions for the 25-26 Code of Conduct. The form will close on February 28, 2025. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc33m6r_ALgMGcwKEHc1qrMEfmLTVj0UMRLMLHLYA52fZAwiA/viewform?usp=send_form

On Feb. 11, the University of Montevallo’s College of Education and Human Development held an awards dinner to recognize the achievements of its outstanding alumni. The college presented awards in several categories to recognize accomplishments by alumni who have shown dedication and exemplary commitment to teaching. Those honored from Shelby County Schools were: 2025 Outstanding Alumnus in Secondary Education: Chris Oravet (Calera Middle School ) 2025 Lifetime Commitment to Education Award: Dr. Lewis Brooks (Superintendent) Congratulations to Dr. Brooks and Mr. Oravet on receiving these awards and thank you for your commitment to education.

High school juniors across the district recently had an opportunity to interact with college recruiters at college fair events held at the Shelby County Arts Council and the Shelby County Instructional Services Center. The Alabama Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers sponsored and organized the event.

🏆 Varsity Scholar’s Bowl Champions! 🏆 Congratulations to our Varsity High Scorers from each school: 📚 CAHS - Mackenzie Ovando & Chase Settle 📚 CHHS - Kennie Campbell 📚 HLHS - Anna Havercroft 📚 MNHS - Yan Shan Zou 📚 OMHS - Brandon Cui 📚 SCHS - Logan Loyd 📚 VMHS - Conner Buchanan 🎖 Top Individual Performers: 🥉 3rd Place - Brandon Cui (OMHS) 🥈 2nd Place - Kennie Campbell (CHHS) 🥇 1st Place - Logan Loyd (SCHS) 🏆 Top Varsity Teams: 🥉 3rd Place - Helena High School 🥈 2nd Place - Shelby County High School 🥇 1st Place - Oak Mountain High

🏆 JV Scholar’s Bowl Standouts! 🏆 Congratulations to our JV High Scorers from each school: 📚 CAHS - Noah Walker 📚 CHHS - Ella Gurtler 📚 HLHS - Edward Boadi 📚 MNHS - Atticus Plott 📚 OMHS - Joshua Chatham 📚 SCHS - Ronin Wilkins 📚 VMHS - Levi Young 🎖 Top Individual Performers: 🥉 3rd Place - Ella Gurtler (CHHS) 🥈 2nd Place - Joshua Chatham (OMHS) 🥇 1st Place - Ronin Wilkins (SCHS) 🏆 Top JV Teams: 🥉 3rd Place - Chelsea High School 🥈 2nd Place - Shelby County High School 🥇 1st Place - Helena High School

8th-grade Scholar's Bowl Standouts! Congratulations to our 8th-grade high scorers from each school: 📚 CAMS - Whisper Jones 📚 CHMS - Noah Henderickson 📚 COMS - Sharkey Clark 📚 HLMS - Andrew Etheridge 📚 MVMS - Jennifer Landaverde-Lara 📚 OMMS - Noah Chatham 📚 VMHS - Jordan Blake 🎖 Top Individual Performers: 🥉 3rd Place - Noah Henderickson (CHMS) 🥈 2nd Place - Jennifer Landaverde-Lara (MVMS) 🥇 1st Place - Noah Chatham (OMMS) 🏆 Top 8th-grade Teams: 🥉 3rd Place - Columbiana Middle School 🥈 2nd Place - Chelsea Middle School 🥇 1st Place - Oak Mountain Middle School

7th-grade Scholar's Bowl Standouts! Congratulations to our 7th-grade high scorers from each school: 📚 CAMS - Ronin Delong 📚 CHMS - Owen Gurtler 📚 COMS - Liam Cole 📚 HLMS - Machara Crawford 📚 OMMS - Hansika Kathait 📚 VMHS - August Lee 🎖 Top Individual Performers: 🥉 3rd Place - Owen Gurtler (CHMS) 🥈 2nd Place - Liam Cole (COMS) 🥇 1st Place - Hansika Kathait (OMMS) 🏆 Top 7th-grade Teams: 🥉 3rd Place - Chelsea Middle School 🥈 2nd Place - Columbiana Middle School 🥇 1st Place - Oak Mountain Middle School

6th Grade Scholars’ Bowl Champions! 🏆 Congratulations to our 6th Grade High Scorers from each school: 📚 CAMS - Davis Dolbare 📚 CHMS - Shriyans Roy 📚 CMMS - Jackson Gray 📚 HLMS - Jackson Houser 📚 MNMS - Danny Carrillo 📚 OMMS - Dan Brewer 📚 VMHS - Hunter Pilkington 🎖 Top Individual Performers: 🥉 3rd Place - Jackson Gray (CMMS) 🥈 2nd Place - Jackson Houser (HLMS) 🥇 1st Place - Shriyans Roy (CHMS) 🏆 Top 6th Grade Teams: 🥉 3rd Place - Helena Middle School 🥈 2nd Place - Oak Mountain Middle School 🥇 1st Place - Chelsea Middle School (Undefeated!)

In addition to the judge's choices for the 8th grade Science Fair, students were also allowed to rotate through each project and vote on the following awards: "The Eureka Award" For the most innovative and original idea; Gabriel Almeida, Exploring pH with Purple Cabbage, Helena Middle "The Future Scientist Award" For the project that shows the most potential for real-world application; Christine White & Charlee Loomis, How does Surface Temperature Affect Fingerprints?, Vincent Middle "The Problem-Solver Award" For the project that tackles a challenging problem with exceptional creativity, Oscar Hernandez, The Solar Roller, Montevallo Middle "The Eco-Warrior Award" For the project that makes the biggest impact on environmental sustainability, Sophie Davis, Biodegradable Plastic vs. Plastic Bottles, Helena Middle "The Data Dynamo Award" For the project with the most thorough and well-organized data analysis. Xayden Lockett, The Affect of Surface Area on the Rate of Chemical Reactions, Montevallo "The Eye-Catcher Award" For the most visually appealing and well-presented display. Mayra Villegas, Candle Race, Montevallo Middle "The Curiosity Catalyst Award" For the project that inspires others to explore and ask questions, Sophia Heller, Unidentified Flying Object, Helena Middle "The Wow Factor Award" For the project that leaves everyone amazed and impressed, Hannah Reyes, Vision of Color, Helena Middle