CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman City School Board at its March 17 meeting approved two principal contracts and recognized outstanding students and faculty.
The board approved a three-year contract for Allison Tuggle to continue serving as principal of Cullman High School. In a statement, the board said Tuggle will remain in her leadership role, continuing to guide the high school in academics, student achievement and school culture.
Dr. Elizabeth Shaddix also received a three-year contract to continue serving as principal of Cullman City Primary School. Under her leadership, the school will continue its focus on early learning excellence and supporting the district’s youngest learners, said the board in the same statement.
“These leadership decisions position CHS and CCPS well for the future,” said Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff. “Both of these administrators bring valuable experience and leadership to our district, and their unique strengths will help us continue providing a high-quality education for our youngest and our oldest students.”
Two retirements were on the agenda: Kristy Liverett, special education teacher at Cullman Middle School, effective June 1, 2026, and Dr. Jay Page, principal at West Elementary School, effective June 30, 2026. Look for a separate feature about Dr. Page soon.
The board also recognized faculty and staff members from CHS. Erica Ball was praised for her dedication to students and leadership within the school’s special education department, and support staff member M’kori Johnson was also recognized for her daily contributions to the school community, being a friendly and encouraging presence to all.
CHS Student of the Month Reese Hopper was recognized in absentia for academic achievement, leadership and positive impact on campus. Administrators described Hopper as a strong student, athlete and peer who consistently supports classmates.
The board celebrated the CHS Theatre program, which earned “Best in Show” at the State Walter Trumbauer High School Theatre Festival. The program will represent Alabama at the Southeastern Theatre Conference. Students also received multiple individual awards, including honors in musical theater and playwriting, as well as All-State All-Star cast selections.
Two students were recognized as winners in the Governor’s App Challenge. Henry Hackbarth and John Harding developed apps focused on teaching American history. Both advanced through regional competition and will compete at the state level in April.
The January financial report showed revenues at approximately 45% and expenditures at 33% of the annual budget, with the higher revenue percentage reflecting early receipt of property tax funds. The system reported a fund balance of about $16.4 million, representing a 4.72-month reserve.
Board members approved several additional action items, including a job description for a career technical education instructor, demolition approval for the Thomas property and updates to textbook and career technical education policies.
The board approved rejecting a bid on the soccer field house project at CHS after exceeding budget expectations. Officials said they will work with stakeholders to revise the project scope before moving forward.
The board also approved multiple consent agenda items, including travel agreements, purchasing partnerships and student program approvals, as well as the system’s personnel report.
Kallhoff recognized National School Social Work Week and highlighted the contributions of the district’s social worker as well as the boys’ basketball team’s appearance in the state championship game and announced an upcoming job fair taking place at Cullman Middle School.
The next Cullman City School Board meeting is scheduled for April 21, at 5 p.m. at the central office.
