State of Education Forum Brings Together Schools, Higher Education and Student Perspectives

The Chamber's annual State of Education Forum, presented by Alabama Credit Union, was held on November 5 at First Baptist Church in Decatur. The forum was moderated by Scott Mayo, Executive Director of the Cook Museum of Natural Science.

A highlight of the event was the student panel, where they shared insights on their education and future goals. Nate Crisler, a student at Hartselle High School led the Invocation and Claire Stewart, a student at Decatur High School led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Panelists included:

Dr. Michael Douglas, Decatur City Schools Superintendent

Tracie Turrentine, Morgan County Schools Superintendent

Dr. Brian Clayton, Hartselle City Schools Superintendent

Dr. Jimmy Hodges, Calhoun Community College President

Dr. Catherine Wehlburg, Athens State University President

Houston Blackwood, Workforce Director, ACCS Innovation Center

Alexia Brown, Decatur City Schools student

Callie Childers, Morgan County Schools student

Bryson Harvel, Hartselle City Schools student

Jaegon Barnett, Calhoun Community College Student

Jordan Jones, Athens State University student

As part of our mission in the community and our five-year strategic plan, the Chamber values its relationships with our local school systems, colleges and universities. Recognizing the significant impact schools have on the business community and overall quality of life, the Chamber is proud to provide a platform for community and business leaders to engage with our education leaders about our children’s futures. We are grateful for  the collaborative relationship with all our education partners and look forward to more work ahead preparing the next generation of leaders.

Thank you to our presenting sponsor Alabama Credit Union and our gold sponsors Alabama Education Association, Ascend Performance Materials and Family Security Credit Union.