Dear Parents,
As September unfolds, I’m pleased to share that Year 10 at Pike Road is already off to a great start! While we celebrate our growth and look forward to what’s next, we remain focused on the present.
As we welcome back more than 2,800 students—from our youngest kindergarteners learning to be a student to our seniors enjoying all of their final firsts—we are committed to fostering academic success in a safe and supportive environment.
This year, one of our key initiatives is encouraging students to keep their electronic devices in their backpacks, and powered off throughout the school day. I believe this step will not only support their mental health but also help them engage more fully in their academic studies.
In addition to academic focus, we’re planning to “Catch Kids in Acts of Kindness.” Throughout the year, we’ll be on the lookout for students who go out of their way to be kind, and we’ll let them know that their actions have been noticed and are appreciated. Kindness is a big part of our community, and I’m excited to see how our students will rise to this challenge.
September also brings cooler nights, perfect for enjoying fall sports. We are looking forward to an exciting season ahead with our Cross Country, Volleyball, and Football teams. Friday Night Lights in Pike Road is always an exciting time, bringing our students, teachers, parents, and community together to support our athletes.
In August, I had the privilege of starting the 2024-2025 school year by riding a school bus with some of our students. It was a reminder of what makes our district so special—our students, their energy, and their enthusiasm for learning.
As we kick off another school year, I’m more excited than ever to see what our students will accomplish.
Superintendent, Dr. Keith Lankford has a wealth of experience in public education in Alabama. Before earning his Bachelor’s, Master’s, Education Specialist, and Doctorate, Dr. Lankford served several years in the Army and the National Guard. He has worked at almost every level of education, including paraprofessional, teacher, principal, and superintendent.
