Each month, the Birmingham Board of Education recognizes the employees who go above and beyond the call of duty to make the district a better place, even when no one is looking.
These employees are critical to establishing and maintaining a positive culture and a safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment. They inspire their colleagues and our students to pursue excellence, serve others, and collaborate effectively towards common goals.
During its regularly scheduled meeting on Oct. 8, the board recognized the following:
Tandy Petro, Science Teacher
Tanisha Hill-Gilbert, Teacher
P.D. Jackson-Olin High School
Tandy Petrov is an exceptional science teacher and educational leader dedicated to her students, school, and community. Her innovative teaching methods and enthusiasm for food science inspire students to explore and appreciate the subject. Beyond the classroom, she serves as the Technology Coordinator and AMSTI Coordinator, providing students with access to cutting-edge resources and hands-on learning experiences. Her commitment to lifelong learning, pursuing a Ph.D. in Science Education, serves as an inspiration to her students and colleagues. She is a role model for educators, balancing responsibilities with dedication, passion, and professionalism, shaping the future of science education.
Tanisha Hill-Gilbert has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to students, colleagues, and the school. Beyond her regular duties, she successfully completed 46 IEP meetings, fostered strong home-school connections, onboarded new employees, and maintained high-quality intervention classes. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication make her a role model for the entire school community.
Andrea Smith, Project Director
Green Acres Middle School
Andrea Smith consistently goes above and beyond to ensure smooth operations at Green Acres Middle School. She handles all tasks with professionalism, grace, and a friendly demeanor. Her organizational skills, attention to detail, and genuine care for staff are noteworthy. Andrea is an invaluable resource to parents and students, always willing to assist and find solutions. The Green Acres family appreciates her dedication and hard work, which make a significant difference.
Sharon Watson, Head Custodian
Otis Harris, Custodian
Shelda Bowers, Custodian
Oxmoor Valley Elementary School
Led by Sharon Watson, this excellent custodial team demonstrates their dedication by ensuring our school is clean and inviting for our scholars daily. We have seen tremendous growth in this team since the pandemic. Their efforts are a significant factor in the positive feedback we constantly receive for our school's physical appearance both inside and outside of the school. They care about the scholars and their overall well-being. The team is vested in Oxmoor Valley Elementary School's motto, "Moving from Good to Great."
Jason Meadows, President
Walter Wilson, Vice President
Derrick Billups, Board Member
Mary Boehm, Board Member
Sherman Collins, Board Member
Sonja Smith, Board Member
James Sullivan, Board Member
Leticia Watkins, Board Member
Birmingham Board of Education
In addition, all board members met the required six hours of training (which includes whole board training and orientations) of the School Board Governance Improvement Act durjng the 2023-24 academic year, which ended June 30. The Alabama Association of School Boards issued certificates to each board member recognizing the accomplishment.
