Marengo County Schools joined with other school systems throughout the state to salute local education leaders during Alabama’s annual School Board Member Recognition Month in January.

The commemorative month is designed to recognize the contributions made by Alabama’s more than 800 local school board members, including the members of the Marengo County Board of Education, who are charged with governing public education under state law.

Alabama school board members are chosen by their communities through election or appointment to manage local schools. They oversee multi-million dollar budgets which fund education programs for more than 744,930 Alabama school children. Local school board members are part of a statewide team that supervises 91,277 employees, including 46,539 teachers, 3,100 administrators, and 35,712 support workers and others in 1,467 schools.

These volunteer leaders also are responsible for formulating school system policy, approving curricula, maintaining school facilities, and adhering to state and federal education law. Legal concerns and the complexities of school finances, including budgeting and taxation, require them to spend many hours in board training programs and personal study to enhance their understanding of these issues.

“Our deepest appreciation is extended to the dedicated men and women who make it possible for local citizens to participate in education in our community. We salute the public servants of the Marengo County School System whose commitment and civic responsibility make local control of public schools in our community possible,” stated a press release issued by MCSS officials.

MCSS board members are: Freddie Charleston, Lynda Joiner, Mike McAlpine, Chester Moore, and Rayvell Smith.

(This article originally appeared in the Saturday, February 3 issue of the Demopolis Times.)