By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Voters elected three new members to the Crenshaw County Board of Education on Nov. 5. The newly appointed members were sworn in during a Tuesday evening ceremony, ushering in a wave of leadership focused on strengthening the county’s schools and fostering student success. 

Bry Findley, a 2008 Highland Home School graduate, succeeds outgoing board member Steve Jackson and takes the District 1 seat.

Findley, a third-generation logger, balances roles as owner of Bry Logging LLC and co-owner of Findley Timber Inc. His commitment to community extends beyond business. Married to Kristin Faulk Findley, the couple has four children, including two current Highland Home School students and two future Flying Squadron students. 

Findley’s long-term vision for the county includes fostering opportunities that benefit all Crenshaw County families and taking actions that will attract dedicated teachers, medical professionals and workers across various industries to live and work here.

“I’m personally invested in the success of our students and our community,” Findley said. “I will have children at Highland Home School for the next 18 years, and their success depends on the strength of the school system as a whole. A strong and united school system benefits the entire county. We need to give our kids a reason to stay in Crenshaw County to fill essential roles in healthcare, education, and other career fields.”

Forrest Cannon Albritton succeeds outgoing member Steve Hermeling who held the District 3 seat. Born in Montgomery, Albritton spent some of his youth growing up in Tampa and is proud to have been a Luverne resident for almost a decade. 

After a stint in Tampa, Florida, where his wife Julie hails from, the Albrittons returned to Alabama, settling in Crenshaw County to raise their two children, both of whom attend Luverne School. 

Albritton expressed deep gratitude for the community’s trust and support and shared his vision for positive, student-focused changes.

“I am honored to have been chosen by the district 3 voters to represent them on the Board of Education,” Albritton said. “I am committed to using this position to make equitable changes that benefit all students and to do so in a way that glorifies God. By working as a unified team, we can provide a well-rounded experience that helps every student excel.”

A volunteer coach for 15 years, even before his own children played sports, Albritton plans to advocate for increased resources for teachers and students, enhanced transparency between the board and the community, growth of athletic programs and a safe, inclusive learning environment, all while collaborating closely, effectively and efficiently with fellow board members.

LaFreda Daniels Griffin, longtime advocate for Crenshaw County students, claimed the District 5 seat replacing outgoing member Annie Zeigler.

Griffin retired Oct. 1 after a 36-year career with Crenshaw County Schools, where she most recently served as the Community Education and 21st Century After School Program director. Known for her dedication and inspirational leadership, Griffin also has a reputation for treating all students as if they were her own children. 

Griffin’s extensive career included roles as assistant to the Child Nutrition Director, superintendent’s secretary and recording secretary for the board. Her leadership has brought significant benefits to students, and she now looks forward to continuing her service on the board.

“It has been an incredibly rewarding experience to work with Crenshaw County Public Schools, alongside the administration and school personnel,” Griffin said. “I feel like my career has come full circle. I was the first person to sit where Mrs. Windy Taylor now sits at every board meeting, recording and transcribing the minutes and it is an honor to now be the District 5 board member.I am so proud that I can continue serving the children of Crenshaw County.”

The newly elected board members bring varied perspectives and skills, unified by a commitment to advancing Crenshaw County’s educational opportunities. Their collaborative approach aims to strengthen academics, support teachers and create a thriving environment for students and families alike.