During its regularly scheduled board meeting on February 10, the Birmingham Board of Education recognized three individuals and one organization with the Power of Partnership Award for their outstanding service to our schools.
Jason Williams for Wylam Elementary
The Youth Program Director at RENEW Birmingham, Jason Williams has been an invaluable partner to Wylam Elementary. From the moment the school's new principal, Sabrina Davidson-Wright, was named, he reached out to offer his support. He helped launch her first Meet the Principal night by connecting community leaders, providing food, prizes, and volunteers, and consistently showing up to serve their families.
He also played a key role in boosting student attendance through our At Ten Dance celebrations, supplying glow items and even surprising them with a popcorn machine for family events. He and the RENEW Birmingham team also stepped in during their Grandparents’ Day celebration, helping serve more than 100 guests with warmth and care.
Mary Chiles for Oxmoor Valley Elementary School
Mrs. Mary Chiles has been a devoted volunteer at Oxmoor Valley Elementary for more than 12 years. Since the school's opening in 2013, she has served with exceptional dependability and compassion. She supports every part of the school, welcoming families at the front desk, assisting with registration, helping the lunchroom and counselor distribute food, chaperoning field trips, and supporting the school’s librarian with various projects.
She consistently goes above and beyond, donating clothing for students in need, participating in the Angel Tree, and coordinating with her church, Trinity Baptist Church, to distribute BackPack Buddies bags to ensure children are fed over the weekend. Her kindness, humility, and willingness to help wherever needed make her an extraordinary blessing to the Oxmoor Valley community.
Walter Church for A.H. Parker High School
Walter Church exemplifies true partnership at A.H. Parker High School through his unwavering support of theirstudents, staff, and programs.
He faithfully serves on the Bison Dad chain crew, mentors athletes, leads study sessions, and offers daily encouragement and support across the building. Whether assisting with morning arrival, helping in the cafeteria, guiding new students, or volunteering at school events, Mr. Church shows up with humility and heart. His thoughtful gestures like homemade treats from his wife and handwritten cards uplift our entire community. Even after major surgery, his dedication never faltered, reflecting his extraordinary character.
A.H. Parker High School is stronger because of his outstanding service!
Tau Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. for Glen Iris Elementary School
The Tau Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated has been an outstanding partner to Glen Iris Elementary, consistently uplifting our scholars through two years of dedicated service.
Its members show up for our students in meaningful ways, welcoming families on the first day of school, supporting our morning carpool line, leading schoolwide cleanup efforts, and providing essential resources such as backpacks, school supplies, holiday toys, and even shoes for children in need. Their commitment to service, community, and student well-being has made a remarkable impact on the Glen Iris family.
They are currently under the leadership of their chapter president Mr. Joseph Fenderson. We are proud to honor the Birmingham Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. with the Power of Partnership Award for their continued generosity and unwavering support.