CONTRIBUTED BY CLAS
OPELIKA —
The Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) is thrilled to announce the election of Dr. Michelle Washington as the 2023-2024 CLAS president-elect. Washington, esteemed director of human resources for Lee County Schools, has been chosen by the CLAS membership, through a ballot process, from among two other worthy nominees. Nominated by the Alabama Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA), Washington’s selection marks a pivotal moment in her exceptional career as an educational leader.
Washington’s extensive educational background is a testament to her commitment to lifelong learning and academic excellence. She holds a Doctor of Education degree in educational administration and leadership from Walden University, earned in 2017. Additionally, she obtained a Master of Education degree in Library Media from Alabama State University in 1999, and a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Troy University in 1995. She is a proud graduate of the Tuskegee Institute High School Class of 1990.
With more than two decades of remarkable professional experience, Washington has consistently demonstrated leadership and unwavering dedication to her educational pursuits. Since 2005, she has been the director of human resources for Lee County Schools. Prior to this position, she served as the system test coordinator/curriculum coordinator for Lee County Schools from 2002-05, and as a library media specialist at Loachapoka High School within the same district from 1998 to 2002. Washington’s early career began as a first-grade teacher at Lake County Schools in Florida, from 1995-96, followed by a role as an elementary teacher at Macon County Schools from 1996-98.
Washington’s dedication to professional development and her active involvement in various educational organizations exemplify her commitment to elevating education in Alabama. As a CLAS member since 2005, she has continuously contributed to the growth and advancement of the organization’s mission. Her influential role as president of the Alabama Association of School Personnel Administrators from 2017 to 2019 further showcases her leadership capabilities. Additionally, Washington has been a devoted member of the American Association of School Personnel Administrators since 2005, the Alabama Association of School Business Officials since 2019, and the Society of Human Resource Management since 2020. Her long-standing commitment to education is also reflected in her membership with AEA/NEA since 1996 and her role as president of the Lee County Education Association from 2001 to 2022.
Beyond her contributions to the education sector, Washington actively engages in community and civic activities. She has been a valued choir member at Greenwood Missionary Baptist Church and a member of the Tuskegee Optimist Club. Her profound commitment to service is further demonstrated through her 29 years of active membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She is currently a member of the Tuskegee Alumnae Chapter and has served as 1st vice president from 2018-22, 2nd vice president from 2016-18 and other leadership positions.
Dr. Vic Wilson, CLAS executive director, expressed his excitement about Washington’s election, stating, “We are delighted to have Dr. Michelle Washington assume the role of CLAS president-elect. Her extensive experience, proven leadership, and dedication to education make her an outstanding choice to lead our organization. We look forward to the transformative impact she will have on educational leadership in Alabama.”
As the 2023-2024 CLAS president-elect, Washington will serve a one-year term in preparation for her presidency in 2024-25. Her vision and commitment to excellence in education promise to inspire positive change and create lasting impacts for students and educational leaders alike.
Washington is the oldest daughter of Jennifer Oliver Washington and the late Ted Washington, Sr.
ABOUT CLAS
CLAS, the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools, was founded in 1969 by a small group of school leaders to provide targeted professional learning and support for Alabama’s public school administrators. CLAS now serves 12 affiliates representing each type of public school/school system leader. CLAS provides the framework to connect dedicated school administrators and other successful leaders with a network for professional growth and support. CLAS is the premier professional learning provider for administrators in public schools in the state of Alabama.