Rayford Williams

Last week, we watched the Class of 2026 walk across the field at Pete Rich Stadium for the last time — not as students, but as graduates. It's a moment that never gets old, and one that means the world to this community. We are so incredibly proud of each and every one of them. The years of hard work, the late nights, the challenges they overcame — it all led up to this moment. Now, the next chapter begins, and we cannot wait to see where life takes them. Congratulations again, Class of 2026. We will always be cheering for you. 📸 View graduation photos here: signumstrategies.pixieset.co… #WeArePC | #PellCitySchools | #ClassOf2026

This month's Moment with the Superintendent is a special one. Dr. Burns sat down with four of our seniors – Aubrey Tucker, Amelia Dillard, Jacob Burgos, and Bryant Phung – for a bittersweet and inspiring conversation about their time at Pell City Schools and the road ahead. It's the kind of conversation that reminds you just how fast it all goes. These four once roamed the halls of our elementary schools, and in just a couple of weeks, they'll walk across the field at Pete Rich Stadium as official graduates of Pell City High School. We are so proud of them – and we think you will be too. Give this month's episode a watch and see what these incredible young people have to say. 🎓 #WeArePC | #PellCitySchools

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Harley Lamey as our new Athletic Director and Keyon Williams as our new Pell City Boys Basketball Coach! Both bring valuable experience and leadership to Pell City Schools, and we believe they will play an important role in helping us continue to pursue excellence both on and off the field. We are looking forward to the impact they will have on our student-athletes, our programs, and our community! Welcome to Pell City! #WeArePC | #PellCitySchools

You’ve probably noticed a new phrase showing up more and more this school year: #WeArePC. But it’s more than just a hashtag – it’s a mindset. It means we’re all on the same team, working toward the same goal and united by the same mission. From City Hall to every school campus, from our local businesses to our churches, the entire community is pulling together to make Pell City a better place to live, learn, grow, work, and call home. #WeArePC represents pride, unity, and the belief that when one part of our community succeeds, we all succeed. It’s a reminder that our schools don’t stand alone – they are supported by an entire city that cares passionately about its students and its future. So when you see those three words, remember why we do what we do: because we all bleed Black and Gold. Go Panthers. 🐾 #WeArePC | #PellCitySchools

Your voice matters – and we want to hear it. Pell City Schools will host a Community Meeting on Thursday, February 19 at 4:00 PM as part of a series of public sessions designed to gather input from the people who know our community best. This is your opportunity to share your thoughts on the current state of our school system and help determine where we go from here. Over the coming weeks, we will be collecting feedback through public comments, community discussions, and an online survey to better understand the needs, priorities, and vision of those we serve. This input will play a key role in developing a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan for Pell City Schools – one that truly reflects our community. These conversations are an important step toward strengthening the connection between our schools and the families, businesses, and residents who support them every day. If you live in the Pell City attendance zone, we encourage you to attend, share your perspective, and be part of the process. The future of our school system is something we build together. Community Meeting #1: 📅 Thursday, February 19 🕓 4:00 PM 📍 Pell City Board of Education Community Meeting #2: 📅 Tuesday, February 24th 🕓 5:30 PM 📍 CEPA We hope to see you there! #WeArePC | #PellCitySchools

February happens to be Career & Technical Education (CTE) Month, which serves as a great opportunity to spotlight the many ways Pell City Schools is preparing students for life beyond the classroom. College is a great path for many students, but it’s not the only path. Our commitment is simple: every student should have an opportunity to be the best version of themselves. Through our CTE programs, students gain hands-on experience in real-world environments, learn foundational skills, and begin building operational knowledge that gives them a head start after graduation. Many of our students also have opportunities to earn certifications and credentials that stand out to future employers. We offer a wide range of CTE pathways spanning agriculture, construction and welding, health sciences, biomedical science, engineering, business and marketing, education and training, hospitality and tourism, law enforcement, military science, and human services. These programs are designed to meet students where they are and help them discover what they’re passionate about while developing practical, career-ready skills. We’re also excited about the future of CTE in Pell City. Recently, we announced plans for a new, much-needed Career & Technical Education facility that will provide modern learning spaces, updated equipment, and room for students to safely apply their skills in meaningful ways. While it won’t house every program, this facility represents a major step forward in giving our students the space and resources they deserve. Career & Technical Education is about opportunity, preparation, and possibility. We’re proud of the students who choose these pathways and grateful for the educators who help make them thrive. Help us celebrate all the many wonderful things about our CTE program! 🎉 #CTEMonth | #WeArePC | #PellCitySchools

Pell City Schools, City of Pell City to Partner on Major Facility Improvement Projects PELL CITY, AL — Pell City Schools and the City of Pell City are proud to announce a historic partnership to reimagine educational facilities, marking a major investment in the future of our students and community. This joint effort, made possible by voters in the 2024 General Election, is the first of many coordinated projects expected between the City Council and the appointed Board of Education, and it signals a new era of unity for Pell City. In an initial move that aligns with community sentiment and a shared vision for growth, the partners are prioritizing a state-of-the-art Career and Technical Education (CTE) Facility on the campus of Pell City High School. The CTE Facility will offer a wide range of career paths designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world. It will house several of the school system’s most impactful programs, including agriscience, business, forensics, culinary arts, and welding. With two-thirds of Alabama high schoolers now participating in these programs, it is clear that career tech is an essential foundation for college and career readiness. This facility ensures that Pell City remains a destination for families who want their children to be equipped, competitive, and ready for the global stage. “Our goal is to create pathways for every student to succeed and achieve excellence,” said Pell City Schools Superintendent Justin Burns. “This investment allows us to meet students where they are, while preparing them for where they want to go.” Following the CTE Facility, the partnership will focus on the Panther Performance Complex. This comprehensive multi-use facility will serve as a centralized home for the majority of PCSS athletic programs, including football, basketball, wrestling, and volleyball. This modern complex will provide a premier space for training and development while significantly enhancing the overall appeal of the City to new families and residents. “This will be remembered as the beginning of a stronger relationship between the City and our schools,” Council President Jud Alverson said. “We are moving forward together, focused on the quality of life for the families who live here today and the students who will lead us tomorrow. When our schools excel, every resident in Pell City wins.” “Words can’t describe what this means for our school system,” Dr. Burns said. “It is my personal goal, both as a father and as Superintendent, to ensure that all children — regardless of background or interest — have the opportunity to succeed at Pell City Schools. These projects represent just the beginning of a very bright future for our schools and our community.” Both projects are currently in development. Additional details will be released at a later date.