2024 National Blue Ribbon School
Brookwood Forest Elementary has been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Every school within Mountain Brook Schools has received this distinction, with BWF now obtaining the honor twice in school history. They are one of 356 schools nationwide to be recognized. “Ironically, being recognized seems like a particularly appropriate time to remind everyone that we are flattered, but never motivated, by such honors and recognitions,” says BWF Principal Nathan Pitner. “We want every moment to be reflective of our efforts to come together to create an environment where every Ranger can grow into a learner who actively and successfully engages in the world. That’s as true when we’re recognized for those efforts as it is when we’re not.”
Homewood Named Promising Practice School
Homewood Middle School earned national recognition for its character education initiatives by Character.org, a leading advocate for character education in schools. HMS is one of nine schools in Alabama to be honored as a 2024 Promising Practice School.
The school’s “Patriot to the CORE" program was recognized for its significant impact and alignment with one or more of Character.org's principles, which emphasize the importance of embedding core values into school culture and embracing shared leadership to strengthen character initiatives. "This recognition is a reflection of the incredible work being done at Homewood Middle School," says Justin Hefner, superintendent of Homewood City Schools. "The Patriot to the CORE program exemplifies the middle school’s commitment to character education and the development of responsible, caring citizens. Our teachers, staff, and students have truly embraced the values of the Patriot to the CORE program, and it shows in the positive impact they’re making daily." The school’s program focuses on instilling core values such as honesty, hard work, respect, and responsibility.
National Merit Commendations
Nine students at Mountain Brook High School were recently National Merit Commended. They are: Brian Acosta, Mac Couvillion, Jane Earnhardt, Addison Hardee, Lily Lott, Caroline Odom, Sorina Shirley, Becca Stewart, and Reed Warburton.
Brookwood Forest Teacher Honored
BWF Technology Coordinator Sharon Mumm recently received the “Making It Happen” Award from Alabama Leaders in Educational Technology (ALET). This award is an internationally recognized awards program for educators in the field of educational technology integration in K–12 schools. The program identifies and rewards educational technology leaders around the world for their commitment and innovation.
Mumm has been the Technology Coordinator at BWF for 31-plus years and has helped the school and district advance in technology use and practices during her tenure. Prior to her current role, she spent five years teaching 3rd and 5th grades. She has also led the Alabama Technology Integration Coach (ALTIC) program for the past seven years. Mumm spearheaded the transition to Schoology, streamlining the ALTIC program, and utilized tools like Zoom and social media to foster collaboration.
Leadership Award Winner
Brenna Vickery, a student at Pelham High School, received the BridgeWays Kathleen P. Bruhn Memorial Leadership Award. The award and scholarship program recognizes graduating seniors who have made a positive impact on their community through volunteerism.
Impactful Educators Honoree
Abigail Hall, a teacher at Pelham High School, was named to the list of Most Inspirational Educators from High School by the Freshman Leadership Initiative (FLI) at Huntington College.
Hall of Fame Inductees
The Vestavia Hills City Schools Hall of Fame will add five new inductees. Inductees in the Hall of Fame’s class of 2024 include:
Kim Bain, band director at Louis Pizitz Middle School (2006-2021)
Reba Clark, director of guidance, curriculum and instruction at the Vestavia Hills Board of Education (1970-1991), inducted posthumously
Barbara Gajewski, social studies teacher, psychology teacher, and counselor at Vestavia Hills High School (1980-2010 and 2013-2021)
George Hatchett, physical education teacher and health teacher at Louis Pizitz Middle School and boys’ basketball head coach at Vestavia Hills High School (1977-2016)
Melvese Mann, second grade teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary East and West (1975-2005)
The Class of 2024 will be the fifth group of educators inducted into the VHCS Hall of Fame. This year’s inductees were chosen from a field of nominees submitted earlier this year by alumni, current and former school employees, and the community at large. “The newest inductees into the VHCS Hall of Fame continue our tradition of honoring outstanding educators who have influenced the lives of so many in our community. Each of them served the school system with distinction and a commitment that are unmatched,” says Todd Freeman, Ed.D., Vestavia Hills City Schools superintendent.