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COLUMBIANA – Lewis Brooks won a tight election over Kristi Sayers on Tuesday, June 5, to become the next superintendent of Shelby County Schools.

Brooks received 12,626 votes, or 50.7 percent, to Sayers’ 12,259 votes, or 49.3 percent in the Republican Primary Election.

With no Democrat challenger for the General Election, Brooks will replace Randy Fuller, who served as superintendent beginning in 2006.

“I’m humbled by the support,” Brooks said. “It’s just been a great honor to have so many people say so many wonderful things about you and to know you have impacted kids’ lives.

“I just want the citizens of Shelby County to know that my commitment to their children has not wavered, and it’s going to be an even greater commitment in this position.”

The election results will not be final until the 58 provisional ballots are counted.

Brooks said a “grass roots” campaign effort that included conversations across the county helped him understand stakeholders’ values.

Brooks said one of his first priorities will be attention to organizational commitment, which is a foundational piece of his vision for Shelby County Schools and includes ensuring people feel valued.

“I want to make sure every employee, everyone in our organization, everyone connected to our organization understands how important they are to Shelby County Schools,” he said.

Sayers, who is principal of Oak Mountain High School, said she was thankful to have been able to participate in the election process and to all her supporters.

“I have met some wonderful people and have found some really fun things to do all over this great county,” Sayers said. “I have no doubt that Dr. Lewis Brooks will do great things for Shelby County Schools!”

Brooks held the position of assistant superintendent of administration and pupil services for the past six years.

In this role, Brooks is known for his development and implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative in which he partnered with the county commission, sheriff’s department and local law enforcement agencies to secure resource officers in our schools and to create controlled access entrances. In addition, he has fostered strong community partnerships with parents, businesses and civic leaders.

Brooks’ platform was comprised of a three by three plan that focuses on school improvement and safety, community partnerships and student innovation.

“As superintendent, my administration will be centered around leadership development, organizational commitment and the recruitment and retention of highly qualified employees at every level,” Brooks said.

Brooks said he also aims to enhance innovation and create more opportunities for 21st century teaching and learning experiences.

“We will prepare our diverse body of students for the careers of the future,” Brooks said.

Brooks plans to engage stakeholders by developing student, teacher and parent advisory committees throughout the district.

“Stakeholder interaction and input are certainly integral pieces to the overall success of our district,” Brooks said.

For more information, visit Drlewisbrooks.com.

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