ACS - Alabaster City Schools Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers has been named the national recipient of the Hank Grishman Consistency in Leadership Award, presented in early November at "The Supes’ Choice Awards" hosted by the Institute for Education Innovation (IEI) in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The award recognizes education leaders who demonstrate long-term stability, adaptability through change, and a proven record of building strong and successful school communities. Dr. Vickers was selected from a national field of superintendents for his sustained leadership and measurable impact on two Alabama school districts.
Dr. Vickers has served as the founding superintendent of Alabaster City Schools since 2013, guiding the newly formed district through its establishment and into its current position as one of Alabama’s highest-performing systems. Upon the district’s creation, he led efforts to build a unified identity, adopting the motto “Champions of Our Future” to anchor the system’s culture and vision.
Under his leadership, the district implemented a comprehensive five-year strategic plan, achieved COGNIA STEM District Accreditation, and completed a $100 million capital campaign that delivered a new high school and major facility upgrades across all campuses. Academic performance has also soared, with Alabaster City Schools reporting a 99 percent graduation rate, a 99 percent College and Career Readiness Score, and record-setting participation in dual enrollment programs. The district’s ACS Champions Craft Academy—a workforce development center—has expanded career pathways and industry certifications for students.
Prior to his work in Alabaster, Dr. Vickers served as the founding superintendent of Saraland City Schools, another Alabama district that has become a statewide leader in academic achievement. His 36-year career in public education includes service as a teacher, school administrator, district leader, and state-level contributor. He has spent the last 19 years as a superintendent.
The award’s namesake, Hank Grishman—last year’s recipient—spent more than 40 years as a superintendent in New York and is widely regarded for his steady, student-centered leadership. The award honors leaders who demonstrate the same enduring commitment to their communities.