STATE OF SCHOOLS
ABOUT ORANGE BEACH CITY SCHOOLS
Located in the heart of paradise, Orange Beach City Schools serves students beginning in K4 through grade 12. We have two campuses, Orange Beach Elementary and Orange Beach Middle & High School. We provide a K-12 results-based experience that focuses on the whole student, one that incorporates challenging academics and skills acquisition, strong character development and solid citizenship which will build our next generation.
Lisa Nix
Dr. Nelson Bauer
Randy McKinney
TO THE ORANGE BEACH COMMUNITY,
Momentum. That’s the word that defines where we stand—propelled by the progress behind us and aimed at the possibilities ahead. In this edition of The Current, we’re proud to share the story of a school system that has not only moved forward but surged ahead.
Three years, countless wins—each one building a foundation for what’s next.
In just a short time, Orange Beach City Schools has established itself as a leader in public education across Alabama. Through the dedication of our students, staff, families, and partners, we have:
• Earned the prestigious Attorney General’s Safe School Award, affirming our commitment to student safety and well-being.
• Achieved a 100% graduation rate, ensuring every student leaves our schools ready for their next chapter.
• Reached 100% credentialing, with all graduates earning industry-recognized certifications and career-readiness credentials.
• Maintained the distinction of being the only school system in Alabama with 100% of third graders reading at or above grade level for two consecutive years.
• Improved proficiency and growth scores, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement.
• Raised expectations and results in AP and ACT performance, positioning our students for success in college and beyond.
• Demonstrated excellence in both athletics and the arts, proving that our students are thriving in every area.
• Established a unifying belief system that models the way, not only for our schools but for the entire Orange Beach community. These accomplishments are more than milestones; they are a testament to what is possible when a community comes together with a shared vision, values, and purpose. Our foundation is strong, and the road ahead holds even greater promise. With gratitude and determination,
Randy Wilkes Superintendent, Orange Beach City Schools
SAFETY FIRST
Orange Beach City Schools remains deeply committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all students, staff, and visitors. Through a combination of forward-thinking strategies and collaborative partnerships, the district continues to implement meaningful improvements that enhance campus safety. Orange Beach Middle & High School was recently honored with the TAASRO School Safety Partnership Award, a recognition given to school personnel who go above and beyond in demonstrating leadership, innovation, and dedication to student safety while strengthening the School Resource Officer (SRO) program.
Several recent enhancements highlight this commitment. A six-minute safety awareness film has been installed on exterior glass doors and windows at OBMHS to reinforce situational awareness and promote emergency preparedness. At Orange Beach Elementary School, the addition of a secure vestibule improves front-entry safety and access control. Every classroom across both campuses is now equipped with First Aid and Stop the Bleed kits to ensure readiness in the event of an emergency. Both schools have implemented the Circool Visitor Management Platform, allowing for streamlined and secure check-ins for all campus visitors. The Centegix Alert System—an advanced emergency response tool—has been expanded to include the new Athletic Complex and Orange Beach Sportsplex. In addition, new security cameras and electronic door access points have been installed to further strengthen day-to-day safety measures.
These initiatives reflect the district’s unwavering focus on providing a safe, supportive learning environment and its belief that safety is foundational to student success.
ATTORNEY GENERAL’S SAFE SCHOOL AWARD
Orange Beach City Schools proudly celebrated two major achievements in school safety this year. Orange Beach Middle High School was named a recipient of the 2024 Alabama Attorney General’s Safe Schools Award, and Orange Beach Elementary School earned the Silver Model of Enhanced School Safety Award. These honors reflected our commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all students!
A DATA-DRIVEN LOOK AT ACHIEVEMENT
At Orange Beach City Schools, academic achievement is at the heart of everything we do. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the data that highlights student progress, growth, and readiness for future success. This overview provides a snapshot of key academic indicators that demonstrate how our schools are preparing students to thrive, both in the classroom and beyond.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT
DATA FROM COLLEGE BOARD
ACAP READING SUBTEST
THIRD GRADE
OF ORANGE BEACH CITY SCHOOLS STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN THE 2025 ACAP AND ACT TESTING!
COLLEGE CREDIT ATTAINMENT
GRADUATION & CREDENTIALING RATES
CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM
18 OR MORE UNEXCUSED AND EXCUSED ABSENCES
ORANGE BEACH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ORANGE BEACH CITY SCHOOLS
ORANGE BEACH MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL
CREDENTIALING
STUDENTS EARNED THEIR COLLEGE AND CAREER
STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
MORE THAN HALF OF THE JUNIORS AND SENIORS TOOK AT LEAST ONE AP COURSE LAST YEAR.
NEARLY THREE-QUARTERS OF ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TOOK AT LEAST ONE HONORS COURSE LAST YEAR.
GIFTED AND SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
210
STUDENTS DETERMINED
ELIGIBLE FOR GIFTED SERVICES
109
STUDENTS DETERMINED
ELIGIBLE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
ORANGE BEACH CITY SCHOOLS MET ALL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING SPECIAL EDUCATION INDICATORS:
• Indicator 3A: Participation Rate for Children with IEPs
• Indicator 4B: Significant Discrepancy by Race/Ethnicity in Suspension/Expulsion
• Indicator 9: Disproportionate Representation
• Indicator 10: Disproportionate Representation in Specific Disability Categories
• Indicator 11: Child Find
• Indicator 12: Early Childhood Transition
• Indicator 13: Secondary Transition
• Timely Correction
• Timely Data Submission
• Cleared Financial Audit
FINANCE
The Orange Beach City Schools Finance Department successfully completed another audit with no findings. This achievement reflects the department’s commitment to transparency, accuracy, and responsible financial stewardship. Their consistent performance ensures that resources are managed effectively in support of student success and long-term goals. We are proud of the team’s hard work and dedication to maintaining the highest standards in public school finance.
REVENUE SOURCES
Orange Beach City Schools has received an incredible in grant funding, thanks to the hard work and dedication of those who pursued these opportunities. These funds will support a variety of initiatives that directly benefit our students—enhancing academics, expanding the arts, strengthening athletics, and enriching the overall educational experience. We are deeply grateful to everyone who played a role in securing these transformative resources!
$7,127,721
GoMESA FUNDING
Governor Kay Ivey announced over $30 million in funding through the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GoMESA) to support 25 projects across Alabama, focusing on environmental conservation and education. One of the key projects is the revitalization of the Sea, Sand, and Stars Steven W. Baker Science and Nature Center at Orange Beach Elementary School. Orange Beach City Schools has received $979,684 in GoMESA funds to enhance the Sea, Sand, and Stars!
ALABAMA K-12 CAPITAL GRANT
Orange Beach City Schools was awarded a second Alabama K-12 Capital Grant from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, totaling $182,804. These funds will enhance safety and security at the new $46.1 million athletic complex through the installation of surveillance cameras and door access systems. Orange Beach City Schools continues to invest in top-tier facilities that support academic, artistic, and athletic excellence!
STATE TEST SUCCESS
Orange Beach City Schools has achieved remarkable success in Alabama’s academic rankings in under two years. The school system’s performance on the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) and Advanced Placement® (AP) Exams has placed it among the state’s top educational institutions.
During 2024 state testing, Orange Beach City Schools demonstrated outstanding proficiency scores at the state level, ranking 3rd in Mathematics, 3rd in Science, and 7th in English Language Arts (ELA). The school system exceeded expectations by entering the top ten in all subject areas in under two years, surpassing its goal to enter by its fourth school-year as a district. Orange Beach City Schools’ average proficiency scores significantly surpass state averages, with scores 23 points higher in ELA, 34 points higher in Mathematics, and 33 points higher in Science. Over the past year, there have been notable proficiency improvements, including a seven-point increase in ELA, a four-point increase in Math, and a remarkable 16-point increase in Science.
In addition to its performance on the ACAP, Orange Beach City Schools’ students have excelled in Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which are designed to mirror college-level coursework. On the 2024 AP Exams, 22 students from Orange Beach High School earned the AP Scholar award by scoring three or higher on three or more AP Exams. Furthermore, three students received the AP Scholar with Honor designation for achieving an average score of at least 3.25 across four or more exams, while two students were recognized as AP Scholars with Distinction for maintaining an average score of 3.5 on five or more exams.
3rd in Math
3rd in Science
7th in ELA
THANK YOU, TEACHERS!
The Orange Beach Board of Education provides incentives for educators based on state test scores to support student success. At the September Board Meeting, teachers whose students placed in the top five in the state in grade-level subject areas in the 2024 ACAP score rankings were honored. Each honoree received a $1,500 stipend for their outstanding achievement. Additionally, the board awards a $200 stipend to the corresponding teacher for each student who scores a three or higher on AP exams. A total of 134 qualifying scores resulted in $26,800 allocated in stipends, showcasing the academic accomplishments of both students and teachers at Orange Beach High School. We are truly fortunate to have such dedicated and talented teachers in our schools!
ACAP 500
Orange Beach Elementary went full throttle for the 2025 ACAP with its high-energy, ACAP 500-themed testing week! The school focused on building excitement and encouraging attendance with daily prizes and class-wide incentives, helping students stay motivated and engaged throughout the testing process. Their efforts paid off—every single student participated, earning the school a 100% testing participation rate. To celebrate, students were invited to a “Victory Lap” celebration, complete with a classic car parade and refreshing popsicles for all.
READING ACHEIVEMENT CELEBRATION
For the second year in a row, 100% of Orange Beach Elementary’s third-grade students are reading at or above grade level—a remarkable achievement that reflects the school’s strong focus on early literacy, dedicated teachers, and supportive learning environment. Orange Beach Elementary School hosted a celebration ceremony to honor the students and teachers who reached this milestone. The whole school cheered them on as they celebrated on stage!
STATE REPORT CARD
Orange Beach City Schools has emerged as one of Alabama’s top-performing districts, earning an overall score of 95 on the Alabama State Department of Education’s State Report Card. This impressive achievement reflects significant year-over-year growth at both campuses. Orange Beach Elementary rose from a 95 to a 97, while Orange Beach Middle and High School made a remarkable nine-point gain, jumping from 85 to 94.
We attribute this progress to improved student attendance, a rigorous academic focus, and a culture of high expectations. These results reflect the collective efforts of students, staff, and the broader school community. Orange Beach City Schools continues to build on this momentum, committed to academic excellence and long-term student success.
To celebrate the exciting news together, all classrooms joined a live video call to watch a fun, school system wide reveal video featuring Superintendent Wilkes and our beloved mascot, OB, on a series of playful adventures leading up to the big announcement. OBES students joined in the spirit by wearing face tattoos!
for students, teachers, parents, and friends to participate in diverse environmental and sustainable activities. Orange Beach Elementary School provides learning programs that promote environmentally sustainable practices, empowering students to become dedicated “Ocean Guardians.” We are excited the Orange Beach Elementary School received this designation for the work they are doing both in the classroom and in our local ecosystem!
HANDS ON LEARNING
Each fall, 5th graders take a field trip to Bird Island in Orange Beach to study the marine ecosystem. They learn about food chains, identify organisms, and discuss the importance of a clean environment for wildlife. Students also practice throwing a cast net and using a seine net. Carter Luke Mosley is pictured preparing to throw a cast net.
SEA, SAND, AND STARS
Thanks to the $979,684 GoMESA grant, Orange Beach City Schools is launching a major revitalization of the Sea, Sand, and Stars campus—a cherished destination for hands-on learning in the heart of our community. These funds will breathe new life into this unique environmental center, enhancing both its educational impact and visitor experience.
The revitalization will include nine new interactive exhibits that celebrate the story of Orange Beach, from its vibrant ecosystems and marine life to its deep-rooted history and continued commitment to coastal sustainability. Existing features, including the 5,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, touch tank, planetarium, and 900-foot elevated boardwalk, will also be upgraded to reflect the latest in environmental education and exhibit design.
Through these updates, Sea, Sand, and Stars will continue to inspire curiosity, exploration, and stewardship for generations of students and visitors alike. The learning center will officially reopen on Wednesday, August 6.
CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA
Orange Beach Elementary School’s Gifted Program hosted its fourth annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at Bear Point Community Beach. Elementary students built boats using only cardboard, paint, tape, and glue—then raced them through the canal in front of a packed crowd of families and community members.
Students competed solo or in teams, with prizes awarded for grade-level winners and fun categories like Most Creative Theme, Best Design, and the crowd-favorite “Most Dramatic Sink Award.” The event continues to be a beloved hands-on tradition combining creativity, teamwork, and fun.
STEM
Innovation is thriving at Orange Beach Middle and High School, where the Engineering, Computer Science, and STEM Club students are tackling real-world challenges with creativity and curiosity. This year, students proudly hosted a STEM Project Fair in the STEAM Lab during the Coastal Alabama Chamber of Commerce’s campus visit, showcasing hands-on projects in engineering, coding, and fluid dynamics.
Highlights from the year include a field trip to Alabama Power’s Barry Steam Plant in Bucks, AL, where students explored power generation systems and career pathways, thanks to the hospitality of Mr. Michael Metz and his exceptional team. From interactive presentations to rooftop views of the sprawling facility, this eye-opening experience left a lasting impression on our future innovators.
Back in the classroom, Mr. Paul’s Computer Science class earned recognition at the 2024 OWA Scarecrow Competition with a working scarecrow prototype—complete with C++-coded sensors, flashing LEDs, and a delightfully quirky soundtrack. Students also tackled challenging pneumatic and hydraulic systems in fluid dynamics, applying engineering principles in engaging, hands-on ways.
This exciting work wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of community partners like Sean Irby, whose funding ensured each of our 30+ STEM students had the materials and tools needed to bring their ideas to life.
MAKO SCHOLAR SOCIETY
Orange Beach City Schools proudly celebrated academic excellence with the induction of 64 outstanding students into the prestigious Mako Scholar Society. These scholars earned the honor by scoring in the 99th percentile on the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) Summative—a rigorous, statewide benchmark that measures mastery of the Alabama Course of Study Standards.
Each inductee received a certificate of achievement, a Mako Scholar t-shirt, a commemorative lanyard and pin, and a plus-one pass to all Orange Beach City Schools events—a symbolic invitation to stay connected and celebrated throughout the year. Superintendent Randy Wilkes also encouraged students to carry the values of The Mako Way—honesty, trust, respect, caring, and integrity—into their future pursuits. He challenged them to remain curious, face academic challenges head-on, and become leaders within and beyond the classroom.
Joining the celebration were Mayor Tony Kennon, City Council Member Annette Mitchell, OBMHS Principal Chris Shaw, OBES Principal Dr. Mary Catherine Law, the Orange Beach City Schools Board of Education, and proud families and staff. These 64 scholars represent 10% of all students who participated in ACAP testing in the spring of 2024—a powerful testament to the academic momentum building within the Orange Beach school community.
Orange Beach Middle & High School was proudly named “Best High School in Baldwin County” by Gulf Coast Media’s Best of Baldwin, earning top honors among more than 400,000 votes!
A+ COLLEGE READY
Orange Beach High School was named a 2024 A+ College Ready School of Distinction!
A+ College Ready honors Schools of Distinction for achieving or surpassing their goals for two consecutive years, as well as for their exceptional academic performance and dedication to the objectives of the A+ College Ready program.
Principal Chris Shaw was presented with a resolution by Alabama State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Mackey, and State School Board Member, Jackie Zeigler in recognition of this achievement.
Softball dominated this year with a remarkable run, earning the titles of Area Champions, Regional Champions, and five-time State Champions. The team finished second in the nation in the 2025 MaxPreps Softball rankings.
Cheerleading claimed the titles of Regional Champions and 4A State Champions, and finishing in the Top 5 nationally at UCA Nationals.
Bowling captured an Area Championship and finished as 1A–5A State Runner-Up. Coach Phil Clemons was named the 1A-5A State Bowling Coach of the Year.
Volleyball reached new heights by advancing to the 4A State Final Four.
Boys Basketball secured the Area Championship and advanced to the Elite 8 with a strong postseason performance.
Girls Basketball also made a deep playoff run, reaching the Elite 8 regional appearance.
Girls Soccer advanced to the Second Round (Elite 8) of the playoffs, continuing to build on a strong program.
Boys Soccer matched that success with their own Second Round (Elite 8) appearance.
Cross-Country had two girls and the entire boys team qualify for the State meet.
Swimming had six female athletes qualify for the State Championship.
Track & Field saw seven individual athletes qualify for State, marking a successful season across multiple events.
Wrestling had one standout athlete qualify for State in the 144 lb. weight class.
Girls Tennis qualified as a team for the state tournament, reflecting depth and talent across the lineup.
Girls Golf advanced to the Sub-State round as a team to close out their season.
THEATER
It was a great year for Orange Beach Middle and High School Theatre, filled with bold performances and major accomplishments. The season opened with a lively fall production of PUFFS, delighting audiences with its humor and heart. In the spring, the theatre department truly soared—as characters took flight in a dazzling production of Mary Poppins that showcased not only the students’ remarkable talent but also the strong sense of community that defines the program.
Senior-led PlayFest also returned for its second year, with directors Cami Wiles and Lilly Fagan guiding their peers through one-act plays in a one-night-only showcase that emphasized leadership and originality. Festival season brought even more reason to celebrate. Middle school students earned eight superior and three excellent scores at Trumbauer Jr. Festival, while high school students made program history at the Trumbauer State Festival—every individual event qualified for state, a first for OBMHS Theatre. The team earned 12 superior scores and placed in both set and prop design, standing out among more than 120 schools across Alabama.
From quirky comedies to classic musicals, festival wins to first-time honors, Orange Beach Theatre wrapped a remarkable year defined by growth, passion, and community. The curtain may be down for now, but this program’s spotlight is only getting brighter.
The Orange Beach Band program has wrapped up a year marked by growth, dedication, and standout performances. From the debut of brand-new marching uniforms to top scores at competitions, the program continued to hit all the right notes.
Throughout the year, students performed in four major concerts, including their first-ever Veterans Day Concert, and brought school spirit to more than 25 athletic events and pep rallies. The Marching Makos earned all Superior ratings at two marching competitions, while the 7th Grade Concert Band made program history by participating in the Alabama Music Performance Assessment for the first time. Both the 7th grade band and the High School Wind Ensemble earned Superior ratings, with the Wind Ensemble receiving a perfect sightreading score for the second year in a row.
Beyond the stage and stadium, twelve students represented Orange Beach at Honor Bands and Solo & Ensemble events. The band also gave back to the community by performing in local parades, pep rallies, and graduation ceremonies. This spring, students in grades 7–12 traveled to Orlando to perform in the STARS Performance Series and take part in the “Art of Foley” workshop at Universal Studios, where they explored the intersection of music and media.
Behind every performance was a deep commitment—marching students and staff dedicated over 100 hours outside of class to perfecting their routines. Their efforts helped raise more than $8,000 for new instruments and contributed to a surge in student retention, setting the stage for the largest high school band in program history.
VISUAL ARTS
From colorful campus displays to community-wide exhibitions, the Visual Arts program at Orange Beach City Schools continues to inspire creativity and shine a spotlight on student talent. This year, every visual art student at OBMHS had work featured at the Seafood Festival Art Show, a growing annual tradition that showcases the artistic voices of our young creators. Additional displays were featured at school and during Fine Arts Night, ensuring our students’ work reached a wide audience, including visiting state representatives. 71 entries were judged for Orange Beach Elementary School’s Fine Arts Night display, with seven students earning top honors across grade levels.
Individual achievements included a student’s work selected for display at the new Gulf Shores International Airport, as well as a strong showing in the Gulf State Park Art Contest, where OBES students earned six winning entries and one honorable mention. Despite weather-related delays affecting entries to the State Superintendent Art Show, OBES still proudly submitted seven student pieces for display in Montgomery. With participation, passion, and public presence on the rise, the visual arts are flourishing across Orange Beach City Schools.
Support Orange Beach City Schools students’ academics, arts, and athletics while enjoying exclusive benefits and becoming an active part of our Mako family. As a member, you’ll gain access to special benefits, events, and opportunities to give back to our community.
Special thanks to our Diamond Sponsors for their generous contributions of $50,000 or more in support of Orange Beach students!
SPONSORSHIPS
Orange Beach City Schools is proud to reflect on a milestone year of growth and community support through its unified sponsorship effort with the Mako Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club (MAAAC). Our collaborative sponsorship program launched this spring designed to strengthen opportunities for students across academics, arts, and athletics, just in time for the upcoming debut of the new athletic complex. Through this effort, our community pledged more than $700,000 in sponsorship contributions. These funds will help support academic programs, fine arts programming, and athletic excellence across all grade levels during the 2025-2026 school year.
MAAAC’s continued leadership in fundraising played a key role in this success. Over the years, the organization has contributed more than $1.5 million to Orange Beach City Schools, and this year’s sponsorship campaign built upon that legacy—expanding benefits for returning partners while welcoming new sponsors into the Mako family. From sports games and arts showcases to academic incentives, the impact of these sponsorships will be felt in every corner of the school system!
MAKOS ON MAIN
Orange Beach City Schools kicked off the 2024–2025 school year in style at Makos on Main, held at The Wharf in early August. The event brought together students, families, teachers, school leaders, and city officials for a festive parade down Main Street, live music, and spirited Mako pride. It celebrated both community unity and the energetic start to a new academic year in the Mako spirit.
HOMECOMING
2024 Homecoming was one to remember! Students wowed the crowd with high energy lip-sync performances at the pep rally, while families came together for a spirited tailgate celebration. The crowning of our newest Homecoming royalty added a touch of tradition and pride, all leading up to a thrilling 42–32 victory by the football team. It was a week filled with school spirit, unforgettable moments, and lasting memories!
PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS DAY
Orange Beach City Schools proudly welcomed families to campus for special events celebrating the vital role parents and grandparents play in our students’ lives. During the Thanksgiving season, both Orange Beach Elementary and Orange Beach Middle & High School hosted festive lunch events, allowing parents to enjoy a traditional feast alongside their students. At OBES, the holiday spirit continued as grandparents were invited back to create Christmas ornaments and share meaningful moments with their grandchildren. These heartwarming events helped strengthen the bond between home and school. These events remind us all of the joy that comes from learning and growing together!
C.A.K.E. DAY
Our young entrepreneurs wowed the community at the 2nd Annual Coastal Alabama Kid Entrepreneurs (C.A.K.E.) Day on May 10. After months of preparation, students proudly launched their businesses, turning creativity and hard work into a full day of fun and learning. From colorful stands to clever products, their entrepreneurial spirit was on full display. Orange Beach City Schools is proud to celebrate these future leaders for dreaming big and making it happen!
CLASS OF 2038
Orange Beach Elementary School welcomed its newest Makos during Kindergarten Signing Day! Incoming students and their families celebrated this exciting milestone with photos, special treats, and a warm welcome from staff. The event marked the official start of their journey in Orange Beach City Schools—and the beginning of many great memories to come!
VETERAN’S DAY PROGRAM
Orange Beach Elementary School’s 2024 Veterans Day Program was a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who have served our nation. The event featured student-led poetry recitations, performances by the OBES Choir, and songs performed by the entire study body that filled the auditorium with pride. As veterans arrived, they were warmly greeted by smiling first graders and welcomed into a celebration of service and sacrifice. Moving video interviews—created by student Peighton Proctor as part of her Red Ribbon Week campaign—offered personal glimpses into the lives of local heroes. It was a meaningful day of honor, gratitude, and community.
FIRST RESPONDERS LUNCHEON
Orange Beach City Schools proudly hosted its annual First Responder Luncheon to recognize the brave men and women who serve and protect our community each day. Local police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and emergency personnel were invited to both Orange Beach Elementary and Orange Beach Middle & High School for a special lunch with our students. This event provided an opportunity for students to connect with local heroes and learn more about their vital roles, all while getting to bond with our local first responders. This event is a small way to show our deep appreciation for their daily service, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our schools and city.
LEGACY BANQUET
On January 30, Orange Beach City Schools hosted its second annual Legacy Banquet at the Orange Beach Event Center. This event is an evening dedicated to celebrating the individuals and partners who make a lasting impact on our schools and community. This invitation-only event brought together school system leadership, educators, and special guests for a night of recognition, reflection, and gratitude.
The district proudly honored John McInnis and Cameron Price of the Orange Beach Store as the 2025 Partners of the Year for their unwavering support of students and programs across all campuses. Recognized for their exceptional contributions in the classroom and beyond, Morgan Soutullo was named Teacher of the Year for Orange Beach Middle & High School, and Svea Tierce received the same honor for Orange Beach Elementary School. Support staff members Kathleen Messer (OBMHS) and Kendra Cline (OBES) were also celebrated for their outstanding service and commitment to student success.
Board President Randy McKinney and Superintendent Randy Wilkes delivered heartfelt remarks, reflecting on the progress, partnership, and people that define the Mako Way. From honoring those who lead with excellence to fostering a culture of appreciation, the 2025 Legacy Banquet served as a powerful reminder of the strength of the Orange Beach community and the lasting legacy we are creating together.
PARTNERS OF THE YEAR
JOHN McINNIS & CAMERON PRICE
OBMHS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
MORGAN SOUTULLO
OBES TEACHER OF THE YEAR
SVEA TIERCE
OBES STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR
KENDRA CLINE
OBMHS STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR
KATHLEEN MESSER
REPRESENTATIVE BARRY MOORE
Orange Beach Middle & High School welcomed U.S. Representative Barry Moore for a special campus visit. During his time at OBMHS, Representative Moore shared inspiring words with students and toured the school to see the innovative learning and programs taking place firsthand. We extend our sincere thanks to Representative Moore for his time and support!
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
Orange Beach Middle & High School junior Paige Lipke was honored for earning a perfect composite ACT score of 36—twice. Orange Beach Elementary School third-grader Emery Adam Pate was named an honorary Junior Officer by the Orange Beach Police Department, and the day was officially proclaimed “Emery Pate Day” by Mayor Tony Kennon and the City Council.
Both students received Certificates of Recognition and were applauded for representing the very best of The Mako Way. We thank the City of Orange Beach for celebrating and supporting our students.
100
Both Orange Beach Elementary and Orange Beach Middle & High School earned perfect 100s on all health inspections for the second year in a row! In celebration of School Lunch Hero Day, Superintendent Randy Wilkes and CNP Coordinator Michaela Miller honored our amazing Child Nutrition Program teams for their dedication to student health, safety, and service.
9th GRADE SERVICE DAY
Orange Beach Middle & High School hosted its annual 9th Grade Service Day, bringing together freshmen for a day of hands-on community engagement. Students partnered with local nonprofit organizations, beautified public spaces, and supported service projects across our city. Through teamwork and purpose, our ninth graders not only contributed to the well-being of Orange Beach but also cultivated leadership, citizenship, and pride in their community!
RED RIBBON WEEK
Red Ribbon Week took on a powerful, student-led approach across Orange Beach City Schools. Led by Paige Lipke and Allie Roach at Orange Beach Middle & High School and Peighton Proctor at Orange Beach Elementary School, the national drug awareness campaign was brought to life through engaging, impactful activities.
At OBES, the theme “Life is a Movie, Film Drug-Free” featured an interactive scavenger hunt with 3D glasses and a spirited Red Ribbon parade. At OBMHS, 131 students publicly pledged to live drug-free, volunteering for random drug testing as a sign of accountability and commitment. A special assembly celebrated those who pledged, recognized student achievements, and highlighted the shared values of The Mako Way. Red Ribbon Week showcased the strength of student leadership and the growing culture of healthy choices throughout the system.
ISLAND SCHOOLS SPECIAL OLYMPICS
Students from Orange Beach City Schools proudly participated in the 2025 Island School Special Olympics, joining peers from Gulf Shores City Schools for a day filled with competition, celebration, and camaraderie. Our athletes showcased their determination, talent, and joyful spirit in events that highlighted their individual strengths. Surrounded by supportive staff, families, and classmates, the day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion and the incredible potential of every student. It was a proud and inspiring moment for the entire island community.
EXCEPTIONAL THANKSGIVING
Orange Beach City Schools hosted an Exceptional Thanksgiving Feast, bringing together students and staff for a warm and inclusive celebration. Tables were filled with festive favorites, shared laughter, and heartfelt connections!
CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
Orange Beach City Schools spread holiday cheer with two standout performances! Students at Orange Beach Elementary warmed hearts at the Oraneg Beach Event Center with their festive Christmas concert, showcasing vocal talent and seasonal spirit. Meanwhile, the Orange Beach Middle & High School band program delivered a captivating holiday performance at the Performing Arts Center, dazzling audiences with timeless favorites and spirited renditions.
SENIOR WALK
The Class of 2025 took their Senior Walk through the halls of Orange Beach Elementary School, joined by the graduating Kindergarten class. This special tradition offered a heartwarming visual of growth and accomplishment, celebrating how far our seniors have come, from their earliest school days to the verge of graduation. It was a joyful and emotional moment shared by students, staff, and families alike!
BACCALAUREATE
The Class of 2025 Baccalaureate Ceremony was held at the Performing Arts Center in a student-led evening that provided seniors with a final opportunity to address peers, teachers, families, and the community. Through reflections, readings, and meaningful messages, a select group of graduates honored the journey of their time at Orange Beach City Schools and celebrated the bonds that have shaped them. The event was a touching prelude to graduation.
CLASS OF 2025
On Thursday, May 22, Orange Beach Middle & High School proudly graduated the Class of 2025—one of the most accomplished senior classes in school history. For the second consecutive year, OBMHS celebrated a 100% graduation rate, a remarkable and rare achievement statewide. Even more impressively, 100% of graduates earned college and career-ready credentials, reflecting the district’s strong commitment to preparing students for life beyond high school.
This class also marked a historic milestone as the first to include students who attended Orange Beach schools from kindergarten through graduation. The Class of 2025 truly embodied the values of the Mako Way—and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
THE MAKO WA Y LIVING THE MAKO WAY
The 2024–2025 school year marked the successful launch of The Mako Way value system—and it was embraced wholeheartedly across both campuses. Students and staff alike committed to living out the district’s core values each day.
Feather flags displaying each value were proudly flown at both schools throughout the year, serving as daily reminders of what it means to be a Mako. At Orange Beach Elementary, students were recognized with Mako Way coins for exemplary behavior and had the opportunity to shop at the newly introduced Mako Way Market, reinforcing positive choices in a fun and meaningful way.
We are incredibly proud of how our school community has leaned into the values that define us—and continues to live The Mako Way every single day.
