Anniston, AL – The Calhoun County Board of Education met Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Excel Academy in Anniston, approving several administrative and policy measures, recognizing an award-winning school librarian, honoring a former Alexandria High School student-athlete, and acknowledging two departing board members.
Alexandria Wrestling Room Named in Honor of Ryan Lambert
One of the meeting’s significant actions was the approval of a request to name the Alexandria High School wrestling room in memory of Ryan Lambert, a state champion wrestler and student who died in 2025.
Superintendent Mr. Willis presented the recommendation, citing Lambert’s achievements in athletics, academics, and community involvement. The district received numerous letters supporting the recognition.
Board members approved the designation of the Ryan Lambert Wrestling Room.
Lambert’s family attended the meeting, along with school representatives and coaches who expressed appreciation for the recognition. Speakers described Lambert’s influence on the wrestling program and the Alexandria community.
School representatives said the designation would provide a permanent way to recognize Lambert’s contributions and preserve his memory within the program.
Weaver Elementary Librarian Receives State Recognition
The board also recognized Cynthia Garcia of Weaver Elementary School as the recipient of the Herman Moore Memorial LAMP Award for Outstanding Service to Alabama Libraries.
District officials described the award as a significant statewide honor recognizing excellence in library services.
Garcia was recognized for her work managing the school’s library, introducing the Beanstack reading platform, supporting STEM activities, and assisting with technology initiatives.
School representatives credited Garcia with expanding educational opportunities and supporting students and teachers through her work.
Board Approves Mental Health Services and Policy Changes
The board approved several measures involving student services, employee compensation, and compliance with state legislation.
Among the actions approved were:
- A collaborative agreement with Highland Health to continue school-based mental health services.
- Placement of the district’s mental health coordinator on the 12-month social worker salary schedule, following an increase in state grant funding.
- A memorandum of understanding with Orchard Counseling and Consulting.
- A policy allowing volunteer chaplains to provide services to teachers upon request.
- A policy addressing release-time credit for students participating in approved off-campus programs during school hours.
- A revision allowing excused absences for students attending scholarship-signing events.
- A transportation services agreement involving the county school system and the 4-H program.
District officials explained that several policy changes were required by recently enacted state legislation. They indicated that some of the practices were already being followed within the school system.
The board also approved personnel recommendations, employee disciplinary actions, contracts for instructional intervention and transportation services, and updates to employee supplements.
Financial Report Shows $44 Million General Fund Balance
Chief School Financial Officer Mr. Godwin presented financial statements for the period ending August 31, 2026.
According to the report, the district recorded approximately $41.8 million in cash and cash equivalents and $17 million in investments and related receivables at cost.
The district’s general fund balance stood at approximately $44 million, representing an estimated 4.74 months of operating reserves.
General fund revenues had reached approximately 94% of the annual budget through August, while expenditures stood at approximately 78%.
Sales tax revenue increased approximately 4.45% compared with the previous year, representing an increase of roughly $400,000.
Godwin also reported approximately $1.4 million in money market income for the year.
Board members received annual evaluations for the superintendent and chief school financial officer. District leadership reported that both received ratings in the proficient and higher performance categories across their evaluations.
The board additionally approved replacing the superintendent’s Ford Explorer, which officials said was approaching 100,000 miles. The replacement is expected to be purchased through the state bid system. Officials will determine whether to reassign or sell the existing vehicle.
Superintendent Provides Updates on Construction and Athletics
During his report, Willis discussed ongoing capital improvement projects and student achievements.
Construction work at the Pleasant Valley athletic fields was nearing completion, while the floor installation at the Alexandria High School auxiliary gym was also approaching completion.
Willis highlighted several athletic programs competing in postseason events.
White Plains High School’s cross-country team was ranked No. 1 in Class 3A at the time of the meeting. Pleasant Valley and Alexandria volleyball teams were participating in regional competition, while several district football teams remained in playoff contention.
Willis also recognized White Plains football for reaching the playoffs for the first time in 34 years.
Additional student achievements included participation in the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, where one district student had already earned a top-six national finish. Weaver’s band program was also recognized for receiving a superior rating in competition.
The superintendent acknowledged district principals during National Principals Month and provided an update on the CCS 101 community engagement program.
Departing Board Members Recognized for 22 Combined Years of Service
The meeting concluded with recognition of board members Micheal Webb and Tobi Burt, who are leaving the Board of Education to serve on the Calhoun County Commission.
Webb has served on the school board since 2018, while Burt began his service in 2012. Together, they have contributed 22 years of board service.
Willis thanked both members for their involvement in district decisions, including academic initiatives, facility improvements, and administrative leadership.
Webb reflected on his eight years of service, emphasizing his efforts to represent schools and communities throughout the district.
Burt discussed his 14 years on the board, expressing appreciation for district employees, administrators, fellow board members, and the relationships developed during his tenure.
Both members indicated that they intend to remain involved with the school system after transitioning to their new positions.
The board concluded the meeting following the recognition and remarks from the departing members.
