Montevallo Elementary School is one of three schools from the state’s School Board District III to have recently been selected as a 2017 Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) School of Distinction. Joining Montevallo Elementary in receiving the honor were Childersburg Middle School of Talladega County Schools and Meadow View Elementary School of Alabaster City Schools.

Each school was nominated for this award by its respective superintendent.  This award recognizes schools or programs that serve as outstanding educational models for other schools in Alabama. These exemplary schools/programs will be recognized at a luncheon February 26 in Prattville, at which time, the CLAS Banner School from State School Board District III will be announced.

“We are beyond thrilled with the news of this recognition. It was such an honor to be nominated by Mr. Fuller,” said MES Principal Allison Campbell. “Our team was so excited to have the opportunity to put into words all of the amazing things happening at MES – it really was validating to be able to put that in writing. To be recognized on an even grander scale is such an honor.”

Campbell said the team of teachers who were instrumental in preparing the application is a phenomenal group of teachers that are very dedicated to the students at Montevallo Elementary. The team includes Ms. Catherine Dewitt, Mrs. Tonya Littlejohn, Ms. Meredith Smith, and Mrs. Rachel Ruis. 

“This award is a testament to the hard work that our teachers, staff, and students put in every single day. Our people give of themselves and pour into our children because they love them and they believe they deserve it,” Campbell said. “Our people are the hardest working, most passionate group– I am so fortunate to be surrounded by such amazing people.”

Campbell said as a staff, they “Expect Excellence” from themselves, first, and then from the students.  

“We build each other up and hold each other accountable. It is so rewarding for the work of our teachers, staff, and students to be recognized. They certainly deserve it,” she added.

 The CLAS Banner School program was created in 2001 to recognize schools in Alabama that showcase outstanding programs and service to students. 107 schools or programs were nominated for this prestigious recognition.

“Congratulations to these wonderful Alabama public schools.  The CLAS Schools of Distinction provide excellent examples of the significant learning opportunities taking place in public education in Alabama.  Further, the stakeholders at every School of Distinction are to be commended for striving for excellence daily,” comments Vic Wilson, Ed.D., executive director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS).

CLAS provides targeted professional development and support for Alabama’s public school administrators.  CLAS now serves ten affiliates representing each type of public school/school system leader.