Kelly Education Hiring Event
Students from R.C. Hatch High School and Francis Marion School had the opportunity to explore seven of Perry County’s now eight Career and Technical Education (CTE) Academies during the Career Academies Expo at R.C. Hatch. The event gave students in grades 6–10 a chance to learn about available programs, connect with teachers and current academy students, and experience firsthand how each academy prepares them to graduate college- and career-ready.
Students participated in a variety of hands-on activities: playing drums and wind instruments with the Arts Academy, practicing blood pressure checks at the Health Science Academy, and exploring tools, safety gear, and career opportunities in the Welding Academy. Shannon Luster from Gear Up also attended to support R.C. Hatch freshmen and share program information.
Perry County currently offers eight CTE Academies, led by dedicated Career and Technical Education professionals:
• Agriscience Academy – Mr. Abrahams and Mr. Sigler
• Arts Academy – Mr. Morris and Mr. Hanks
• Computer Science Academy – Mrs. Allen and Mrs. Jones
• Cosmetology Academy – Mrs. Bates
• Health Science Academy – Mrs. Dudley
• Jobs for Alabama’s Graduates (JAG) – Ms. Lewis
• Welding Academy – Mr. Harris, Wallace Community College Selma
• Modern Manufacturing Academy – Mr. White (new this year)
Under the leadership of CTE Director Mr. Lonnie Sigler, Perry County is proud of its vibrant and growing CTE program, designed to ensure every student graduates prepared for college, the workforce, or military service. We are grateful to our talented educators who guide students along their career pathways and thank all teachers, students, and administrators for their continued support of CTE in Perry County.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Perry County School District stands together to break the stigma, spread hope, and support one another. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
September is National Attendance Awareness Month! Perry County School District encourages all students to be present, on time, and ready to learn each day. Attendance matters for success!
Congratulations to Ms. Meredith Wiggins, Mental Health Services Coordinator, on her appointment to the Alabama Youth Bullying and Suicide Prevention Committee with the Alabama State Department of Education!
This important committee addresses issues of bullying and cyberbullying while also leading the revision of comprehensive Suicide Procedural Guidelines and personnel training to better support students across the state.
We are proud of Ms. Wiggins for representing Perry County Schools and for her continued dedication to the well-being of our students.
Parent Night at Francis Marion School
On Tuesday, August 26, seniors from R.C. Hatch High School and Francis Marion School had the exciting opportunity to tour the campus of Alabama A&M University. Students were able to explore the beautiful campus, visit academic buildings, and learn about the wide range of programs and student services offered. The tour gave them a glimpse into life at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) and encouraged them to start envisioning their own futures in higher education. We are proud of our seniors for taking this important step toward preparing for life after high school and grateful to Alabama A&M University for hosting and inspiring them!
On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the AASB Fall District Meeting, the members of the Perry County Board of Education received the 2024–2025 Team Training Achievement Award in recognition of their dedication to professional growth and strong governance. More than sixty percent of the members attended at least three Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) conferences, and every member successfully completed the state-mandated training requirements for the 2024–2025 training year.
This recognition underscores the board members’ ongoing commitment to effective leadership and continuous learning. By investing in professional development, the members ensure that Perry County Schools benefit from informed decision-making and a unified focus on student success.
In observance of Labor Day, the Perry County School District will be closed on Monday, September 1, 2025. This includes the district office and all schools. Regular business hours and classes will resume on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday!
Alabama Numeracy Act
Alabama Literacy Act
Mental Health Services Coordinator, Ms. Wiggins attended the 4th Vital Annual Conference. This conference is leading the way in building a better future for behavioral health. The VitAL Annual Conference brings together professionals, advocates, and changemakers from across the state to share ideas, inspire action, and strengthen our collective impact. Ms. Wiggins is featured with keynote Speaker, Darryl Strawberry, 8x MLB All -Star.
Cross-country season is here!!! Get ready to see great growth and achievements from Jamarian Essex, Jadarius Carlisle, and Garret Carlisle. We may be small in numbers, but these young men are not to be trifled with in the 5K!
There’s still time to enroll in the First Class Pre-K Program at Francis Marion School!
Give your child the best possible start with high-quality early childhood education.
Register online today:
https://prek.alaceed.alabama.gov/
Don’t miss this opportunity—spots are filling fast!
Dr. Tommie Marby, renowned speaker, author, and educator, has inspired countless young people through his personal story of resilience and success. Today, Dr. Marby visited Francis Marion School and Robert C. Hatch High School to share his empowering message: “To Predict Your Future, You Must Create It.”
His presentation emphasized the importance of overcoming adversity and focusing on solutions rather than problems. Dr. Marby encouraged students to reflect on key themes such as attitudes, character, choices, and leadership, reminding them that their future is shaped by the decisions they make today.
Francis Marion School and R.C. Hatch High School were honored at the JAG National Training Seminar in Louisville, Kentucky, with the prestigious 6-of-6 National Network Award!
This award recognizes programs that go above and beyond—exceeding all six Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) national performance metrics, with a strong focus on graduation and employment success.
Big shout out to our amazing Perry County JAG Specialist, Ms. Shelia Lewis, for her dedication and hard work in making this achievement possible!
R.C. Hatch High School is excited to welcome Tyler Davis as the new Head Football Coach!
We were honored to welcome Dr. Tommie Mabry as the keynote speaker for our 2025 Employee Institute! His powerful message of resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of education reminded us of the lasting impact we make when we lead with passion and commitment. Dr. Mabry’s inspiring journey and dynamic presence truly set the tone for a school year filled with possibility, purpose, and positivity. Thank you, Dr. Mabry, for reigniting our drive and reminding us why we do what we do. Here’s to a phenomenal school year ahead! Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, excellence, and unstoppable momentum.
