Shelby County Schools

Shelby County High School is one of four winners of the national ASICS and BSN Sports Sound Mind, Sound Body contest supporting youth programs in the sports of cross country, track & field, volleyball and wrestling. SCHS eceived a $12,000 award to bolster its Cross Country Track program and instill further confidence in its athletes. The other three winning schools were in Illinois, Indiana, and Georgia. Each school submitted a video detailing how they would use the grant money as part of the application process. Jason Mayfield, Columbiana Middle School teacher and SCHS Cross Country Coach stated in the video submission that the money will be used to purchase uniforms, training shoes, and equipment; maintain the outdoor running trail, pay participation fees and transportation costs for students to attend meets, and host a Cross Country meet in Columbiana,. Mayfield said the team has grown from four boys and one girl to over 30 students who participated during the 2022-2023 school year. The boys' team qualified for state this year for the first time since 2008. The girls' team only missed qualifying by one point. "All four of these well-respected programs have earned the right to receive this award," said Terry Babilla, BSN SPORTS President. "You can feel these young athletes' passion, energy, and love of their respective sports just by watching their submission videos, and that's exactly why we partnered with ASICS to launch this contest – to support and elevate youth programs across the country. We're honored to play a role in helping these coaches obtain much-needed equipment and resources so they can continue to develop their programs and make lasting impacts on their teams and athletes for years to come." Along with the $12,000, the four winning schools are also awarded a free professional development session through the Believe in You Empowerment Program. The Believe in You Empowerment Program, developed by BSN SPORTS' parent company Varsity Brands, provides free resources and curriculum to guide teachers and coaches in facilitating character education and leadership development to help students unlock their potential and strive toward their goals.

11 months ago, Shelby County Schools Public Relations

2023-2024 Alabama Teacher of the Year, Jeff Norris, received the car he will use to travel the state as an education ambassador during a special assembly held at Oak Mountain Middle School on May 19. The car was presented by Alfa Insurance & Alabama Farmer's Federation. Special guests included state Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey, Alfa President Jimmy Parnell, Alabama Farmers Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan, Alabama Farmers Federation Communication Director Jeff Helms, Alfa Executive VP of Marketing Mark Evans, and Alfa Senior VP of Human Resources and Facilities Stephanie Palmore. Also in attendance were local elected officials, including Indian Spring Mayor Brenda Bell-Guercio, State Representative Arnold Moody, and Senator Jabo Waggoner.