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 April 8, the board awarded Shawna McGriff of Oxmoor Valley Elementary School with Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award for her exceptional contributions as counselor at the school.
Nominated by Lakeshia Moody, Ed.S, Assistant Principal of Oxmoor Valley Elementary School, Ms. McGriff earned the award for her long-hours of dedication to the school’s students, leading committees like PEER Helpers and Beta Club and implementing a girls' mentoring group to build self-esteem and social skills for female scholars in grades 4-5. In addition, she conducts mental health check-ins on a monthly basis for all students at the school.
“Ms. McGriff's commitment to professional excellence is admirable, and she is deserving of the Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award. Her unwavering commitment to students, innovative approach to counseling, and dedication to our community are beacons of support and inspiration,” wrote Mrs. Moody in her nomination of Ms. McGriff.
In addition, two educators, Madison Abney of Hayes K-8 School (pictured above) and Dr. Timothy Allison of Sun Valley Elementary School (below with his family) were recognized for achieving their board certifications.
