MADISON – Madison Board of Education has selected Sharon Powell as Secondary Instruction Coordinator for Madison City Schools.

After completing student teaching with MCS, Powell knew she wanted to teach and enroll her son in the district. University of Alabama in Huntsville had hired her as a graduate teaching assistant but she declined the offer for a temporary slot at Bob Jones and never regretted that decision. She taught for 13 years and then worked two years as Secondary Instructional Specialist.

“Teaching at Bob Jones High School was my dream job when I was younger because we have amazing children in our district. In fact, if your child graduated from Bob Jones, there’s a good chance that I had the pleasure of teaching her/him,” Powell said.

As she gained experience, Powell realized she could influence more students “as a servant-leader for secondary schools.” Supporting administrators and teachers as they guide Madison’s children is an honor, she said.

Powell will work closely with Dr. Heather Donaldson, Melissa Mims, Daniel Whitt, Natalia Dooley at Central Office and secondary administrators. She will continue a focus on curriculum, including Advanced Placement and Career Tech; expanding internship opportunities; and identifying opportunities for students.

At UAH, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English/language arts and a master’s degree in English. Powell received Administration Certification from the University of North Alabama.

Powell’s priority is to confirm individualistic opportunities for students. “Students don’t all need (or want) the same things. Our district is an innovative one. We’ve been creative in structuring our middle-school schedule and curriculum development in high school,” she said. “We’ll (respond) to the ever-changing world we live in and our students’ talents and interests.”

Martha Boggs greatly influenced Powell. “Martha taught me how to appreciate the challenge of brilliant students and how to support all learners. She encouraged me when I stumbled as a brand new teacher and celebrated my successes. She is the most selfless, intelligent and loving educator that I’ve ever known.”

Sharon’s husband Tim Powell works as a claims estimator at Landers McClarty Chevrolet. Their son Mason graduated from Bob Jones and is majoring in biology with a pre-med focus at UAH.

Her spare-time enjoyments are reading and time outside with family. “Unplugging and being in the moment — in the conversation or space without distractions — is very rewarding and helps me reconnect with my loved ones and recharge,” Powell said.