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Dr. James A. Street Award
Heath Grimes Receives Dr. James A. Street Award
The Dr. James A. Street Award is presented by the CLAS Board of Directors in recognition of exceptional service to Alabama public education. The award’s namesake, Dr. Street, was the first fulltime executive director of the Alabama Council for School Administrators and Supervision (ACSAS), which is now CLAS. Dr. Street was a visionary leader who served in many capacities in public education in Alabama.
Recipients of this award may be an educator or layperson, a school system, or public or private institution or organization, profit or non-profit, that the CLAS Board of Directors considers worthy of such recognition. The James A. Street Award can be presented to a member or non-member for exceptional service or achievement that furthers the cause of public education and the interests of school administrators.
This year’s Dr. James A. Street Award was presented to Dr. Heath Grimes at the Awards Luncheon during the CLAS Convention on June 13, 2023. Grimes was recognized for his remarkable contributions and tireless advocacy for English Learner (EL) funding in Alabama schools.
A testament to his leadership and unwavering commitment, Dr. Grimes played a pivotal role in crafting an education bill that adopts a “common sense” approach to accountability for EL students in Alabama schools. This groundbreaking legislation removes EL students from a school’s achievement component for the students’ initial five years, enabling a more equitable and supportive educational environment. Dr. Grimes’ advocacy and policy initiatives have also led to the establishment of the EL Instructional Department at the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE), ensuring dedicated resources and support for English Learners statewide.
Dr. Grimes’ exceptional leadership extends beyond his legislative accomplishments. Russellville City Schools, under his guidance, has undergone a profound transformation in mindset and culture, garnering national recognition for their innovative approach. Recently featured in Education Week, Dr. Grimes and his school district have become a beacon of inspiration for their progressive educational practices and dedication to creating an inclusive learning environment that values the diverse backgrounds and experiences of their students.
