Decatur City Schools Superintendent Recognized as BRSE Recipient

(News Release) Congratulations to Dr. Michael Douglas, recipient of the 2023 Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence (BRSE) Superintendent Award. Dr. Douglas is only the fourth superintendent in the nation to be recognized with this prestigious award.

"I'm proud of my district. This honor wouldn't be possible without the students, families, and our wonderful community," said Dr. Michael Douglas, Superintendent of Decatur City Schools. "A special thank you to our Board of Education for their vision, leadership, and support, as well as our principals, teachers, and staff. I also want to thank Faith Plunkett, who oversees our Blue Ribbon process. I'm so proud of our schools and their hard work to be the best."

Ten of  17 Decatur City Schools have earned Blue Ribbon Lighthouse status, while one elementary school earned a Beacon Award under Dr. Douglas' leadership.

"Dr. Douglas embodies the mission and values of a Blue Ribbon leader. He is a model of leadership for superintendents and educators throughout the nation," said Dr. Judy Warden Fields, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence.

"We congratulate Dr. Douglas on this outstanding award. I commend him for his hard work, leadership, and vision for Decatur City Schools. Congratulations, Dr. Douglas! Job well done," said Michele Gray King, Decatur City Schools Board of Education President and District 1 Representative. "

"It's wonderful for those outside of our school system to see and acknowledge the hard work we see Dr. Douglas exhibit every day. This award is a great accomplishment for our Superintendent and the entire Decatur City School system," said Jason Palmer, Decatur City Schools Board of Education District 5 Representative.

"Dr. Douglas embraces all children whatever their needs," said Peggy Baggett, Decatur City Schools Board of Education Vice President and District 2 Representative. "He is the best I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I sleep well at night because he is OUR Superintendent."

The award presentation will take place at the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence National Conference in Orlando on December 1.