During its regularly scheduled board meeting on October 6, the Birmingham Board of Education recognized Mrs. Aretha Ball-Cargill with the Power of Partnership Award for her outstanding commitment to our students, families, and schools.

For more than a decade, Mrs. Ball-Cargill has been a consistent and dedicated presence in Birmingham City Schools. Since 2015, she has faithfully volunteered her time and talents, supporting our district throughout her children’s educational journeys. Her service has touched several school communities, including Huffman Academy, Huffman Middle School, W.J. Christian, Ramsay High School, and Huffman High School.

Over the years, Mrs. Ball-Cargill has served in countless ways. She has been a PTO President, PTA Reflections Chair, crossing guard volunteer, field trip coordinator, active PTSA member, member of her school’s Parent Council, and a member of the district’s Parent Advisory Council.

But what makes Mrs. Ball-Cargill’s service so special is not simply the number of roles she has held. It is the commitment, consistency, and heart she has brought to each one. Whether organizing school events, supporting teachers, helping families become more engaged, or simply stepping in wherever there was a need, she has continually gone above and beyond for Birmingham City Schools.

Mrs. Ball-Cargill truly embodies the power of partnership. Her years of service remind us that strong schools are built not only by the people who work inside them each day, but also by families and community members who are willing to show up, lend a hand, and remain invested in the success of every child.