The catchphrase “why not us” is something I started using as a personal reminder to keep student success and safety at the center of everything I do in this role. It was quickly adopted throughout the district as a mantra to continuously seek internal improvement. Over the last seven months, we’ve been intentional about listening to the needs of our families and making changes where we can to eliminate any hurdles.
When I was appointed just before this school year, I was resolute in becoming a student of how and why our district works the way it does, vowing not to make any significant changes in the first year of my Superintendency. However, within days of taking office, I found myself in systemic shifting conversations that required immediate action to preserve our district – not just the nostalgia and comfort of how it’s always been but difficult decisions to financially sustain the system with expiring funding sources and rising inflation, all while keeping student success and safety our first priority.
District and school administrators have been working diligently since August to improve our schools and to give our students the best educational experience possible. While this climb up the proverbial ladder will not happen overnight, I’m pleased to share that it has begun and will continue with the support of our families and communities.
Stakeholder input prioritized several projects that we have begun to implement. Early in the school year, the district purchased new metal detectors and security wands that are now in use in our schools. Administrators have the ability to use the detectors in any way that they deem necessary. We have improved communication by implementing a new platform known as ParentSquare. New academic offerings, such as robotics teams, STEM partnerships, and the Twilight School Program, ensure that all students have an equal opportunity for success.
You are encouraged to continue sharing your feedback and suggestions to help improve Autauga County Schools by participating in the district’s upcoming State of the School meetings in your community! These town hall meetings will begin with a short presentation regarding school data, and then the meetings will open up to community members so that we can listen and learn from attendees. Community-specific dates will be announced soon on ParentSquare and the district’s social media channels.
Lyman Woodfin is a 17-year veteran of the school system having served as a classroom teacher, coach, and school administrator. Most recently, Lyman Woodfin was the Marbury High School principal, serving the 560-student school since 2018. During his tenure, he was credited with overhauling the curriculum offerings to meet all students’ educational needs, including adding new vocational classes in broadcasting, business, agriculture, and construction. He is married to Staci and they have five children who attend school in the district.
