We are proud to share that Dr. Marcia Smiley, Superintendent of the Perry County School System, was recently featured as a panelist at the Future of Learning Summit 2025 (FOLS 2025), powered by Shipt. Held in Birmingham, this prestigious event brought together forward-thinking education leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of public education.
Dr. Smiley participated in the Superintendents Panel: "Analog in a Digital World", moderated by Candyce Monroe, Director of Learning. She was joined by distinguished colleagues including Dr. Mark Sullivan (Birmingham City Schools), Martin Nalls (i3 Academy), and Dr. Walter Gonsoulin (Jefferson County Schools).
The panel explored the complex challenge of balancing tradition with innovation—particularly as schools navigate legacy systems while embracing new technologies that prepare students for a future of ever-changing demands. Dr. Smiley shared insights from Perry County’s own journey, highlighting how rural schools can lead with vision, adopt digital tools, and stay rooted in their community values.
Her voice added a critical perspective to the conversation, emphasizing equity, access, and innovation in education across all settings.
We applaud Dr. Smiley for representing Perry County with excellence and for continuing to lead with a bold vision for our students’ futures.