Birmingham Education Chief Named Alabama's Top School Leader

Mark Sullivan recognized as Outstanding Superintendent of the Year by Alabama Education Association

Feb. 6, 2026 at 3:55pm

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Mark Sullivan, the superintendent of Birmingham City Schools, has been named the Outstanding Superintendent of the Year by the Alabama Education Association. Sullivan, who has led the school system since 2020, was recognized for his professional achievements, innovative support for schools, efforts to promote public education, and leadership that has enhanced the image of educators.

Why it matters

This award highlights the significant progress Birmingham City Schools has made under Sullivan's leadership. During his tenure, the district has received its highest-ever grade on the Alabama State Department of Education Report Card and seen improvements in test scores across multiple subjects. The recognition also underscores Sullivan's long-standing commitment to the Birmingham community, having worked in the school system for over 25 years as a teacher, principal, and now superintendent.

The details

Sullivan was selected for the award through a vote of his superintendent peers across the state. In addition to the academic improvements, the district has also executed a comprehensive plan focused on early literacy, instructional support, and expanding college and career pathways for students. Sullivan's leadership was also praised by the Birmingham Board of Education, which gave him high marks in his annual evaluation, citing his impact on student performance and the overall health of the school system.

  • Mark Sullivan has served as the superintendent of Birmingham City Schools since 2020.
  • In 2025, multiple Birmingham schools recorded improvements in test scores across several subjects.
  • In October 2026, Sullivan received high marks in the annual evaluation of his performance by the Birmingham Board of Education.

The players

Mark Sullivan

The superintendent of Birmingham City Schools since 2020, who was named the Outstanding Superintendent of the Year by the Alabama Education Association.

Birmingham Board of Education

The governing body of Birmingham City Schools, which gave Sullivan high marks in his annual evaluation and praised his leadership.

Alabama Education Association

The organization that awarded Sullivan the Outstanding Superintendent of the Year honor through a vote of his peers across the state.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to be recognized by my peers and the Alabama Education Association. But no single individual can take credit for the growing success of Birmingham City Schools. What's happening here is the result of a school board that continues to set the right tone, a faculty and staff laser-focused on getting results, students and families doing their part, and a city and community that have invested in our schools like never before.”

— Mark Sullivan, Superintendent, Birmingham City Schools

“This is such a well-deserved honor for Dr. Sullivan. His outstanding leadership has helped Birmingham City Schools make historic progress, and his work has made a tremendous difference in the lives of our students. I'm thrilled to congratulate Dr. Sullivan on behalf of the entire board.”

— Sherman Collins, President, Birmingham Board of Education

What’s next

The Birmingham Board of Education is expected to continue its strong support for Superintendent Sullivan's leadership and the district's ongoing academic improvements.

The takeaway

Mark Sullivan's recognition as Alabama's top school superintendent underscores the remarkable turnaround of Birmingham City Schools under his guidance. By fostering collaboration between the school board, faculty, students, and the broader community, Sullivan has driven significant academic gains and restored pride in the district, serving as an inspiring example of the impact effective leadership can have on public education.