Shades Mountain Elementary honored as National Blue Ribbon; flag presented and small Washington trip planned

Shades Mountain Elementary School was celebrated by the Hoover City Schools Board of Education after the school’s selection as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2024–25.

Merrick Wilson, the district’s executive director of communications, opened the recognition and thanked Shades Mountain staff and Shades Mountain Baptist Church for hosting the reception. Principal Mr. Irwin spoke about staff dedication, community and the school’s culture of collaboration.

Several teachers addressed the board. Fifth‑grade teacher Al Dixon described the school as ‘‘a place where everyone is always welcome and deeply loved,’’ saying the building’s culture and partnerships make improvement possible. Katie Collins, introduced as a first‑grade teacher in Hoover City Schools and the 2025–26 Alabama Teacher of the Year, praised the school and said Alabama’s progress in education is attracting national attention.

Ethan Vice, representing U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer’s office, presented a flag that had been flown over the U.S. Capitol and read a certificate honoring Shades Mountain Elementary’s academic performance during the 2024–25 school year.

Superintendent Dr. Maddox told the audience the district will fund a small contingent of fewer than 10 people to travel to Washington so some Shades Mountain representatives can share in the recognition that could not be fully realized earlier; he said discretionary funds would be used to support the trip and that additional coordination with state and federal representatives is planned.

Board members recessed to join a reception honoring the school and indicated a formal recognition of certain staff (including Sergeant Foreman) will be scheduled at a subsequent meeting.

The celebration highlighted community partnerships, teacher leadership, and planned district support for a Washington recognition experience.