Annual event honors area schools, educators, students

CULLMAN,

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Ala. – The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 State of Education Community Luncheon at Wallace State Community College on Friday, April 11. The annual event featured Cullman City Schools Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff, Cullman County Schools Superintendent Dr. Shane Barnette, and Wallace State Vice President for Advancement and Innovation Suzanne Harbin, on behalf of Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics.

The city school system was recognized for its academic excellence with its second consecutive year of straight A’s on the Alabama State Department of Education Report Card. East Elementary School was honored for its selection as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, one of only five schools in the state to receive the honor in 2024. Cullman City Primary School was also honored for being named a 2024 Safe Schools Initiative Awards Winner, one of six schools in the state to receive the award. 

“These recognitions reflect the high expectations set by our board, the dedication of our teachers and administrators and the incredible effort of our students,” Kallhoff said. He said over $800,000 has been invested in school safety necessities such as the SRO programs, security cameras and door access systems. Additionally, the system continues its 1-1 technology initiative and the expansion of its STEM and career-readiness programs through dual enrollment and internships.

Barnette shared progress on the key goals of the county school system, including increases in graduation rates and career and college readiness. The system received an A on the Alabama State Department of Education Report Card, with scores for almost all schools improving.

“We’re not just preparing students to graduate — we’re helping them find their passion and place in the workforce,” Barnette said. The “Grow Your Own” teacher initiative was also highlighted, in which high school seniors intern as instructional aides to gain experience working as educators with students. He said the Cullman Area Technology Academy (CATA) has also undergone significant upgrades, such as new machine-shop equipment and an agricultural learning center. Investments have also been made in libraries, ag facilities and security infrastructure.

Harbin spoke about Wallace State’s national acclaim. The school was named a Top 10 finalist for the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, recognizing achievements in graduation rates, workforce alignment and innovative partnerships.

“Our graduation and retention rates reflect the power of our strategic vision — and our students,” Harbin said. “We’ve made it a priority to eliminate barriers and create clear, successful pathways.” Wallace also celebrated record enrollment rates, with over 6,400 students in credit-bearing programs and 1,500 in workforce and adult education. Notable program launches include Pharmacy Tech, Nursing Support Technician training and expanded Skills for Success offerings in Heavy Equipment and Logistics.

A highlight of the luncheon was students and educators being recognized for hard work, dedication and achievements.

This year’s award winners and nominees include:

Teachers of the Year

• Cullman County Elementary Teacher of the Year Hayley Drake (Vinemont Elementary School)
• Cullman County Secondary Teacher of the Year Amy Whaley (Hanceville Middle School)
• Cullman City Elementary Teacher of the Year April Dean (East Elementary School)
• Cullman City Secondary Teacher of the Year Caroline Lunsford (Cullman High School)
• Wallace State Teacher of the Year Dr. April Sutherland

Students of the Year

• Cullman Area Student of the Year Lana Todd (Holly Pond High School)
• Cullman County CTE Student of the Year Shayla A. Colchado-Reza (Vinemont High School)
• Wallace State Student of the Year Emily Delgado Duarte

Todd and Colchado-Reza were each awarded $1,000 scholarships.

Other CTE Student of the Year nominees

• Nevaeh Green (Cullman High School)
• Evan Dockery (Cullman High School)
• Ava Roper (Holly Pond High School)

 

Other Cullman Area Student of the Year nominees

• Ava Ray (Cullman High School)
• Willa Smith (St. Bernard Preparatory School)
• Evelyn Griffin (Cullman Christian School)
• Connor Crawford (West Point High School)
• Olivia Stallings (Hanceville High School)
• Rylan McRay (Vinemont High School)
• Mia Fortner (Fairview High School)
• Natalie Miller (Good Hope High School)
• Rebecca Backett (Cold Springs High School; not in attendance)

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