Each month, the Birmingham Board of Education recognizes the employees who go above and beyond the call of duty to make the district a better place, even when no one is looking.
These employees are critical to establishing and maintaining a positive culture and a safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment. They inspire their colleagues and our students to pursue excellence, serve others, and collaborate effectively towards common goals.
During its regularly scheduled board meeting on February 10, the board recognized the following employees…
Jonathan Eldridge
Instructional Coach
Green Acres Middle School
Jonathan Eldridge (or Mr. E as he is known around the school) is willing to step in and help in every area. He is outstanding with the students rather it's inside the classroom or something going on in the hall. Mr. E. Steps in as a father figure for a lot of our students who don't have fathers in their lives. He mentors them as much as he can. He is always willing to go above and beyond regardless of what is required of him. I am so proud to have him as my colleague.
Nominated by Kimberly Wilkins, SpEd Teacher, Green Acres Middle School
Mr. Wendale Pierson
Special Education Teacher and Department Chair
A. H. Parker High School
Wendale Pierson goes above and beyond the call of duty every single day, and his dedication to the students, staff, and the Parker community is truly exceptional.
Mr. Pierson's name is synonymous with Parker High School. In addition to his responsibilities as a special education teacher and department chair, he also serves as the school's Drum Major Instructor and is an active member of the Senior Advisor Committee. His commitment extends far beyond the traditional school day—he spends countless days, evenings, and weekends in the halls of Parker or supporting students at extracurricular events such as games, band performances, and school programs. I often joke that if he is not at home, he is likely at Parker High School, and it is almost always true.
As a Special Education Program Specialist, I am intimately familiar with the demanding and often overwhelming paperwork that accompanies special education compliance. Due to ongoing staffing vacancies, Mr. Pierson frequently steps in to fill the gaps, often without being asked. His willingness to support the department and ensure students receive the services they deserve is remarkable.
Beyond his work responsibilities, Mr. Pierson is also pursuing his Master's degree in Special Education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham-all while balancing professional, family, and personal obligations. Even with such a demanding schedule, he maintains an unwavering level of excellence, positivity, and commitment.
I would like to take this opportunity to salute Mr. Pierson for a job exceptionally well done. His hard work, leadership, and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and he is truly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Alicia G. Menifee, Ed.D., Program Specialist, Special Education Department