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 August 11, the board recognized the following: 

Bathen Cathey, Social Studies Teacher, Huffman Middle School

For years, Mr. Cathey has been painting ceiling tiles for classrooms to reflect the subject matter, and now the entire school is filled with incredible works of art! 

This excellence shows in his classroom too, as his students create the most wonderful social studies projects. He assists students in building their own race cars as well, incorporating science into social studies. The students race the cars and decorate them as well. During units on Egypt, his eighth grade students create pyramids and other buildings out of rice crispy treats. He hosts a dinner for the students in his classroom to teach etiquette and table manners. 

He does so many things with students that it is impossible to list them all here. Thank you for your consideration! 

Nominated by: Dinah Denison, Huffman Middle School

Dr. Pamela Underwood, Program Specialist, Special Education

The Special Education teams at Huffman Academy and Martha Gaskin would like to proudly recognize Dr. Pamela Underwood as an outstanding Program Specialist who truly deserves employee recognition.

Dr. Pamela Underwood is an exceptional special education leader who consistently goes above and beyond for her team. She is always available to support us—day or night—even when we are working from home. Whether we need guidance with IEPs, paperwork, meetings, or parent concerns, she is patient, responsive, and genuinely happy to help.

What sets Dr. Underwood apart is her ability to guide without judgment. When we have questions or make mistakes, she never makes us feel inadequate; instead, she provides clear, nurturing support that helps us grow and succeed. Her leadership style fosters confidence, trust, and professionalism among her team.

Dr. Underwood is not only a resource for teachers, but also for principals, administrators, and school counselors who rely on her expertise and guidance. She is a natural leader who inspires us to be our best and encourages us to stay on top of our practice at all times.

Because of her unwavering support, many of us have developed a deeper love for special education and for teaching within Birmingham City Schools. She creates an environment where teachers feel comfortable, valued, and empowered to be themselves.

Nominated by: Felcia Pinkston and the Special Education teams at Huffman Academy and Martha Gaskins Elmentary 

Mildred Funderburg, Executive Secretary, Curriculum and Instruction

Mrs. Funderburg consistently goes above and beyond the expectations of her role, serving as an invaluable resource not only to the Academic Division but to departments across the entire district. 

Mrs. Funderburg is always willing to assist wherever she is needed. She supports departments by submitting NextGen board agenda items, provides training and guidance to administrative secretaries,coordinates hundreds of summer stipend requests for district personnel, and plays a critical role in organizing academic meetings for district staff and principals. Her attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage complex responsibilities ensure that district operations run efficiently and effectively.

Beyond her official responsibilities, Mrs. Funderburg is known throughout the district for her exceptional customer service. Every day, she assists parents, school principals, community partners, and district employees with professionalism, patience, and kindness. Whether answering questions, resolving concerns, or helping someone navigate district processes, she approaches every interaction with a positive attitude and a genuine desire to help.

What many people may not realize is the personal commitment Mrs. Funderburg makes each day. She commutes from Sylacauga to Birmingham and back, traveling more than two hours daily. Despite this demanding commute, she is consistently punctual, often arrives early, and frequently stays late to ensure the work is completed. She never complains, regardless of the workload, and greets everyone with a warm smile and a servant's heart.

Mrs. Funderburg exemplifies the values of Birmingham City Schools through her professionalism,dependability, and selfless dedication to serving others. Her willingness to support colleagues across departments, her commitment to excellence, and her positive spirit make her an outstanding candidate for recognition. She is truly one of the unsung heroes of Birmingham City Schools, and her contributions have had a lasting impact on the success of our schools, staff, and students.

Nominated by: Dr. Pamela Williams, Chief Academic and Accountability Officer, Birmingham City Schools