By KATIE MCDOWELL/Lifestyles Editor

HOOVER – The Alabama Association of School Boards gave Shelby County Board of Education member Peg Hill its highest honor Dec. 9 at the group’s annual convention at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover.

Hill was named to the 2011 All-State School Board , which executive director Sally Howell said was the “highest honor” for its members.

“It’s an elite group,” Howell said. “It’s based on her contributions, primarily on the local level but also on the state level.”

Hill said she was honored to receive the award.

“I think it’s because I work with such good people,” she said. “I think it’s great the way (our) board works together as a team.”

Hill was one of five people named to the All-State School Board from school boards across the state. Howell said the winners are chosen by past board members.

It’s a structure nomination process to make sure the cream rises to the top,” she said.

In a nomination letter, Shelby County Schools Superintendent Randy Fuller called Hill “ a true advocate for the children who attend our schools.”

“Peg is the consummate Board member,” he wrote. “She takes her role seriously and is a well-prepared decision-maker. Peg’s congenial, outgoing personality allows her to get along well with everyone.”

The other 2011 All-State winners are Jennifer Parsons, Jefferson County; Sandra Manasco, Haleyville; Ralph Thompson, Lauderdale County; and Lori Tippets, Jacksonville.