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The Shelby County Schools Showcase of Schools took place on Friday, Feb. 21, highlighting different programs from across the school system and the progress of students throughout the school year. (Reporter photo/Alec Etheredge)

By ALEC ETHEREDGE | Publisher

ALABASTER – Gazing toward a dog walking his way, the cup of coffee in State Rep. Corley Ellis’s hand on Friday morning, Feb. 21 was the last thing he needed for energy.

As the dog wheeled toward him, yes wheeled, being driven be students from Chelsea Park Elementary School’s STEAM lab, Ellis got to see one of the grants he shared with the school in action.

“It’s so cool seeing what they’re able to do with these grants we share with them,” Ellis said, looking on proudly with a sense of amazement.

This specific grant allowed the CPES Steam lab to work on a special robotics program, including the robotic dog that was equipped with features of a wagging tail and turning head.

Sights like this took over the Shelby County Instructional Services building in Alabaster on Friday for the annual Showcase of Schools.

Hosted by the Shelby County Schools Education Foundation, leaders from across the county were treated to lessons throughout the school that highlighted what students had learned so far this school year by putting them into interactive exhibits.

“Today’s showcase of schools is an event that highlights the hard work, the dedication and the exceptional talent that each of our schools represent,” Shelby County Schools Superintendent Dr. Lewis Brooks said. “I see the heart and soul of our educational community. The students, educators, staff, families are united by a shared commitment to providing a learning experience that inspires curiosity, fosters creativity and prepares every child for a successful future. Today, we get to celebrate not only academic achievements, but also the unique talents and passions of our students. Science, social studies, math, technology, artistic performance, career tech or athletic accomplishments, the wide range of experiences on display this morning reflect the depth and breath of our district’s educational offerings.”

Those in attendance enjoyed culinary treats, robotics like the dog from the Chelsea STEAM lab and Lego cars delivering candy, musical success, a safari trip, history lessons, CPR lessons, carpentry pointers, 3D printing, graphic design, healthcare work and so much more.

“Our schools are not just places of learning, they are dynamic, thriving communities where students grow, get support and discover their own potential,” Brooks said. “Every program, every classroom and individual contributes to this journey of growth and development.”

A select panel of five high school seniors also shared how the school system had impacted their educational journeys as they prepare for the next steps in life, from college to career.

Those seniors included Vincent’s Aiden Poe, Calera’s Sydney Williams, Helena’s Alyson Ragland, Chelsea’s Barrett Mamock and Oak Mountain’s John Schoemaker.

“Being in a large Class 7A school like Oak Mountain has really made me competitive and given me the drive I need,” Schoemaker, who is one of the state’s top distance runners. “This is one of the most competitive areas in the state. Because of that, I’ve had to push myself to be better to keep up and help others. Teachers have helped push me through the hard classes. They’ve never given up on me and have always helped me strive to do better.”

Williams and Mamock both shared similar drive in their passions for history and plumbing, respectively, both confidently sharing that Shelby County Schools was a difference maker in giving them the tools to learn more about both for their future.

Ragland, who was just crowned Miss Helena High School the previous weekend, also shared how her journey through school helped her find a special passion.

She credited “Miss Alice” Lobell as her art teacher for inspiring the beginning of her passion for art, which eventually blossomed into a love for music.

“There was something about her that made little Alyson not only want to color, but color inside the lines,” she said with a laugh. “When I got into middle school, I joined the choir with Mr. Frank Andrews and he had that same fun and encouraging air about him. I not only wanted to sing, but sing on key. Then, in high school, I joined theatre with Jefferson Casey, he had that same air and wanted you to succeed. They were always promoting my work. Something about those teachers made me love the artistic world altogether.”

Poe built off of that saying that his support system was key from his parents to his friends to his teachers. He said building those relationships and compartmentalizing his day has allowed him to focus carefully on his tasks to prepare him for the future.

Miss Alabama’s Teen and Miss America’s Teen First Runner-Up Ali Mims, a student in the district at Chelsea High School, was the special speaker and emcee during the morning closed out the event talking about her own journey.

Going from Mt Laurel Elementary School in kindergarten all the way through to her senior year at Chelsea High School this year, she said the school system gave her the preparation to chase her dreams.

“My fifth grade teacher gave me the award for most likely to become famous,” she said. “I don’t know if I would consider myself famous, but it’s people like that who poured into me and saw that there was a light within me and instilled in me what I could potentially be one day.”

She is now using her platform to give back to the education world through the Joyful Noise Foundation, a music education program for students with disabilities and special needs.

Mims has raised more than $35,000 to help provide instruments to students with special needs and has raised more than $100,000 for students with special needs through partner programs.

Now, Mims is headed to Samford University on a full scholarship, bringing the Showcase of Schools event full circle from the elementary students beginning their journey to the seniors heading off to college.

“I can’t wait to pursue my dream education, stemming from the great education in Shelby County Schools,” Mims said. “All you do for our students doesn’t go unnoticed and you all should be proud of what you’ve done in your community.”

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