MCS’ Dr. David West presented “Educator of the Year” award from Partnership for a Drug Free Community

MADISON – Dr. David West, Safety, Security and Emergency Management Coordinator for Madison City Schools, was presented the Educator of the Year Award Thursday from the Partnership for a Drug Free Community.

West arrived at Madison City Schools in January 2019, near the same time the Partnership was awarded a grant to advocate against vaping and tobacco use in schools.

“Vaping was among the priorities on his list,” said Wendy Reeves, interim executive director of the Partnership. “He met frequently with Partnership leaders where he shared statistics and brainstormed ways we could reach students. But he didn’t stop there. He wanted to include parents, as well. Together, we coordinated parent workshops and media interviews to help promote key points about vaping and its detrimental impact.”

West continues to be a strong supporter of the Partnership and its Youth Tobacco and Vaping program. “He sees the reports on tobacco and vaping incidents, which took all schools by storm in 2018-19. We appreciate his genuine concern. That’s why our staff recommended Dr. West as the first recipient of the Educator of the Year Award for Madison City Schools,” Reeves said.

West is in his 17th year in education, including middle school principal jobs in Dale County and Enterprise City schools, assistant principal positions in Ozark and Crenshaw County schools and teaching experience in Dothan City Schools. He also served five years in the military police.

Madison City Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said the Outstanding Educator Award is deserving for all that Dr. West does in his safety and security role.