By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

Those without an education background need not hesitate to apply to serve on Pelham’s first board of education, City Council members said during a Sept. 16 meeting.

The City Council recently began accepting applications from those interested in serving on the upcoming city school board, and is looking for a wide range of individuals to appoint to the board.

“We are looking for a wide range of experience and expertise on this board,” said Councilman Ron Scott. “I want to encourage all to apply, not necessarily just those who have advanced degrees.”

Scott said he is looking for applicants with experience in areas such as finance, construction and building maintenance, and said he will attach “great merit” to an applicant’s history of service in the city’s schools.

Council President Rick Hayes also said a wide range of skillsets among future school board members will be “absolutely critical.”

“We are looking for a very diverse group that can come together to form a powerful team,” Hayes said.

On Sept. 14, the city announced it had begun accepting applications from those interested in serving on the school board.

Those interested in volunteering for the school board should provide a letter of introduction stating why they would like to serve on the board, along with a resumé and three references, according to the council.

Applicants must be Pelham residents, and must pass a background check. Applications may be submitted to members of the City Council or to City Clerk Marsha Yates.

During its Sept. 9 meeting, the City Council voted unanimously to create a Pelham school board, and to work toward separating from the Shelby County School System to form an independent Pelham city school system.