Chamber’s 2026 State of Education Forum Highlights Collaboration and Workforce Development
Local education leaders and students came together Tuesday, November 3, for the Chamber's 2026 State of Education Forum at the DoubleTree by Hilton Decatur Riverfront. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration in preparing students for success and meeting the evolving workforce needs of Decatur-Morgan County.
The forum featured the superintendents of Decatur City Schools, Morgan County Schools and Hartselle City Schools, along with the presidents of Calhoun Community College and Athens State University. Scott Mayo, Executive Director of the Cook Museum of Natural Science, moderated the discussion.
Bringing these education leaders together provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships across local school systems, colleges and universities. Their shared commitment to student success and workforce readiness plays an important role in supporting the future of the community.
Students from each participating institution also joined the conversation, sharing their experiences and perspectives as they prepare for the next steps in their education and careers. Student panelists included Angely Ramirez of Calhoun Community College, Ali Love of Athens State University, Damien Dobbins of Austin High School, Addison Caudle of Brewer High School and Jerry Rabadan of Hartselle High School.
Through initiatives such as Partners-in-Education, Endless Opportunities, the Career & Workforce Expo and the SuperStar Teacher Program, the Chamber continues to connect education and business while supporting students, educators and workforce development throughout Decatur-Morgan County.
Thank you to the education leaders, students and everyone who participated in this year's forum. These conversations and partnerships are essential to creating opportunities for students and building a strong future for our community.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor North Alabama Pepsi, gold sponsors Alabama Education Association and Ascend Performance Materials and silver sponsor North Central Alabama Regional Council of Governments (NARCOG).