Calhoun County, AL – The Calhoun County Board of Education’s meeting on November 19, 2024, combined ceremonial highlights with critical operational updates. The evening began with a meet-and-greet session, allowing community members, parents, and school staff to interact with board members, both returning and newly elected. The informal gathering fostered connections and provided an opportunity to discuss priorities for the district.
Swearing-In of Newly Elected Board Members
The meeting officially commenced with the swearing-in of seven board members by Judge Shannon Page. The board includes Mike Almaroad, Tobi Burt, Allen George, Joe Lathers, Alan Mange, Bobby Tittle, and Michael Webb.
Following the ceremony, board members elected Michael Webb as Chairman and Bobby Tittle as Vice Chairman for the upcoming year, marking the beginning of a collaborative leadership term.
Recognition of Excellence
TCI Student of the Month: Maggie Morgan
Barry Russell, representing TCI (a local business that partners with CareerTech programs), presented the TCI Student of the Month Award to Maggie Morgan, a senior at White Plains High School. Maggie, an active member of FFA, FBLA, and the track team, was recognized for her dedication to cosmetology and her plans to pursue a career in the field by attending Gadsden State Community College. She received a certificate of achievement and an honorarium, with a chance to compete for a scholarship at the end of the year.
Edustaff Substitute Teacher of the Year: Christi Lynch
Christi Lynch, a White Plains Middle School substitute teacher, was honored as the Edustaff Substitute Teacher of the Year for Alabama. Ms. Lynch, a graduate of White Plains High School, was praised for her patience, kindness, and ability to connect with special needs students. Superintendent Tony Willis highlighted her remarkable contributions, including working 152 days during the last school year. She received a $250 check and a trophy in recognition of her outstanding service.
Athletic Achievements in Volleyball
The board recognized the extraordinary accomplishments of Calhoun County volleyball teams:
- Alexandria High School: The 4A Varsity Girls Volleyball team, coached by Whitten-Welch, was celebrated for becoming regional champions and state runners-up. Coach Whitten-Welch shared heartfelt reflections on the growth and leadership shown by her team throughout the season.
- Ohatchee High School: The 3A Varsity Girls Volleyball team, coached by Rebecca Hughes, was honored as regional champions and state runners-up. Coach Hughes, recently named Coach of the Year, emphasized the program’s growing success and the support of the school community.
- Pleasant Valley High School: The 2A Varsity Girls Volleyball team achieved back-to-back state championships. Coach Jennifer Mann commended her team’s perseverance through injuries and challenging competition, crediting their success to hard work and determination.
- White Plains Volleyball: The board also celebrated White Plains High School’s Volleyball Team, who achieved regional champion status and were state runners-up in their division.
Weaver High School Band: 3A Alabama Marching Band Champions
The Weaver High School Band, under the direction of Jared Holland, was celebrated for winning the 3A Alabama Marching Band State Championship for the third consecutive year. Mr. Holland expressed gratitude to the students, faculty, parents, and community for their unwavering support.
Weaver High School FFA
The Weaver High School FFA Chapter was honored for being named a National Star Chapter at the 2024 National FFA Convention, placing them among the top 25 FFA programs in Alabama. The recognition occurred during the second general session at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Coach Colman Lett was celebrated as the 2024 Outstanding Newcomer for FFA Coaching, and Kaitlin Dumar, the chapter president, was recognized for her achievements in Creed Speaking. Dumar was the first semifinalist from Alabama in the National Creed Speaking Contest and the only representative from the southern region. Coach Lett shared Dumar’s inspiring journey, emphasizing her perseverance and leadership.
White Plains Cross Country
The White Plains Boys Cross-Country Team earned state runner-up honors, showcasing their dedication and endurance. Individual achievements included:
- Maddyn Conn: 4A Individual State Champion in girls’ cross-country.
- Abbie Dickeson: Recognized as All-State Cross-Country.
Coach Cotton expressed immense pride in his team, highlighting their dedication, leadership, and the strong support system provided by parents and school staff.
Financial Report
The report highlighted:
- General Fund Overview: The district currently holds a reserve equivalent to three months of operational expenses, reflecting strong fiscal management.
- Revenue Streams: Local tax collections have seen a modest increase due to growth in sales tax revenue. State and federal funding allocations remain stable.
- Capital Projects: Allocations for ongoing and upcoming projects, including renovations at Oxford Elementary and the planned construction of additional science labs at Jacksonville High School.
- Expenditures: An increase in utility costs was noted, but the district is exploring energy-saving initiatives to offset future expenses.
The agenda for the meeting was unanimously approved. Superintendent Tony Willis expressed his pride in the achievements of Calhoun County students, staff, and schools, highlighting the community’s dedication to excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts.
The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of the ongoing efforts of educators and students, setting a tone of unity and pride for the district and with board members and attendees expressing optimism for the district’s future.
Pictures from the Meet and Greet:
