During its regularly scheduled board meeting on March 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.
Donna Thomas for Family and Parent Engagement
Mrs. Donna Thomas serves as President of the Birmingham Council of PTAs and is a dedicated Parent Engagement Board Member for Birmingham City Schools. She has faithfully served Birmingham City Schools for many years, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to supporting parents, families, and students across the district.
This year marks an extraordinary milestone, her 50th year of service to the parents and families of Birmingham City Schools. Through her leadership, advocacy, and dedication, Mrs. Thomas has strengthened the partnership between schools and families, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Her five decades of service exemplify dedication, leadership, and a deep passion for educational excellence. Mrs. Thomas is truly deserving of recognition for her remarkable and sustained contributions with our BCS Power of Partnership award.
Ronikee Marina for Hudson K-8 School
Today, we honor Ms. Ronikee Marina for her exceptional dedication to Hudson K8 School. Every morning, she volunteers her time to support traffic duty, ensuring our students and families arrive safely and feel welcomed. Her positivity, professionalism, and reliability help set the tone for our school day.
What makes Ms. Marina truly remarkable is her willingness to step in wherever she’s needed. She is dependable, respectful, and proactive, always putting children and the school community first. Her leadership and genuine commitment have made a meaningful impact on our daily operations and school climate.
Ms. Marina embodies what strong family engagement looks like, and we are grateful for the difference she makes at Hudson K8. She is a valued partner, an amazing parent, and a shining example of service and these are just a few examples of why she was nominated for the BCS Power in Partnership Award.
Rayshondra Jiles for Bush Hills STEAM Academy
We are proud to recognize Ms. Rayshondra Jiles for the Power of Partnership Award, nominated by Bush Hill STEAM Academy. She truly embodies what partnership looks like in our school community.
Ms. Jiles goes above and beyond, supporting afterschool activities, volunteering during summer and schoolyear registration, and helping families feel welcomed and connected. She strengthens parent engagement by encouraging meaningful collaboration between families and the school, creating a culture where parents feel empowered to be part of their children’s success.
She also works closely with our school counselor on community projects and mentors students throughout the day, offering guidance, encouragement, and steady support.
Through her leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to students, Ms. Jiles makes a powerful impact on our school community. She is the very definition of partnership, and we are honored to celebrate her today with our BCS Power of Partnership Award.
Walmart Neighborhood Market (Birmingham Palisades Boulevard) for West End Academy
West End Academy is proud to recognize the staff members of Walmart Neighborhood Market on Palisades Boulevard, led by their store manager, Mr. Michael Parker, with the Power of Partnership Award. The store’s unwavering support of our scholars, families, and staff has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our school.
Through consistent in-kind donations and hands-on volunteer service, the team members have strengthened our PBIS and attendance initiatives and brought encouragement and joy into our hallways. Their generosity creates opportunities our students might not otherwise experience.
Because of Walmart Palisades, our scholars feel supported, celebrated, and inspired to succeed. This partnership goes beyond giving, it reflects genuine care for our school community and for these efforts we are happy to present the BCS Power of Partnership Award.