The Current Fall 2025

FROM VISION TO LEGACY This fall marks a defining chapter in the legacy of Orange Beach City Schools—a season where learning, leadership, and lasting impact came together in remarkable ways. The revitalization of Sea, Sand & Stars, our beloved environmental learning center, stands as a tribute to curiosity, conservation, and the spirit of discovery that defines this community.

Paired with the unveiling of the world-class Mako Athletic Complex, these milestones remind us that proper education extends far beyond the classroom walls. They are living symbols of what can happen when a community commits to building not just for today, but for generations to come.

The same spirit of collaboration has fueled one of the most inspiring displays of community support anywhere: 143 sponsors contributing a combined $995,500 to Orange Beach City Schools this year. Through the Makos Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club (MAAAC), these partnerships are powering programs, enhancing facilities, and opening doors for students across every grade level—proving once again that excellence is a shared investment.

That shared pride reached new heights when Orange Beach City Schools hosted the AHSAA Game of the Week, showcasing to the entire state the passion and pageantry of Mako athletics. The excitement of that night carried seamlessly into another first—the Sounds of the Island Marching Band Festival, where students from across the Southeast filled our stadium with music, precision, and joy. These moments were more than celebrations; they were the beginnings of traditions that will echo for years to come.

Yet even amid these celebrations, our most significant victories are found in the classroom. Orange Beach City Schools now ranks #1 in Alabama in Science, #2 in Mathematics, and #4 in English Language Arts on the state’s ACAP assessments—proof that our academic foundation is every bit as strong as our facilities. These results are not merely numbers; they represent the collective effort of teachers who inspire, students who strive, and parents who believe.

This fall, we celebrate more than buildings, banners, and scores—we celebrate a community that dreams boldly, works tirelessly, and builds purposefully. Together, we are shaping a legacy that will endure long after the cheers fade and the ribbons are cut.

Thank you,

William R. Wilkes, Superintendent

SOARING TO THE TOP

Orange Beach City Schools continue to set a new standard for excellence in Alabama education, achieving some of the most significant proficiency gains in the state over the past three years. Since the district’s establishment, student performance has soared. English Language Arts (ELA) scores have increased by 9%, Math by 10%, and Science by an impressive 19%. Orange Beach now ranks second in the state in proficiency scores, with an outstanding 81% of students in grades 3-8 scoring proficient across Math, ELA, and Science. These results place Orange Beach City Schools among Alabama’s top-performing districts and highlight the district’s steady climb in statewide ACAP proficiency rankings.

Fourth and eighth-grade students achieved the highest science proficiency scores in Alabama, ranking first in the state. Students in grades 3-8 ranked second statewide in math performance and fourth in the state for English Language Arts proficiency.

Superintendent Randy Wilkes celebrated the milestone as a reflection of the district’s innovative approach and collective effort. “We are extremely proud of these results,” Wilkes said. “To see our students rank first in the state in science proficiency is a testament to their curiosity, effort, and the power of our handson, real-world approach to learning.”

This year’s progress marks notable growth from last year’s results, with science improving from third to first, math from third to second, and ELA from seventh to fourth. “Our math proficiency gains—ranging from 10% to 17% across multiple grade levels— are nothing short of remarkable and reflect the deep commitment of our students, teachers, and administrators,” Wilkes continued.

“We’re equally proud of our English Language Arts performance, with several sub-areas reaching 90% student proficiency. These achievements place Orange Beach City Schools among the top systems in Alabama and affirm that our relentless pursuit of excellence is paying dividends.”

Orange Beach Elementary School Principal, Dr. Mary Catherine Law, emphasized the district’s immersive learning model as a key driver of success. “Our students are completely immersed in their education,” said Law. “Whether in the classroom, exploring the Sea, Sand, and Stars Environmental Learning Center, partnering with Coastal Resources, or participating in enrichment programs in the field, our students are learning everywhere they go. This holistic approach ensures that learning is meaningful, relevant, and unforgettable.”

Orange Beach Middle & High School Principal Chris Shaw echoed this sentiment. “Engagement in the classroom makes all the difference,” Shaw said. “When students and teachers work together—challenging and supporting one another— achievement follows. This success reflects the commitment of our educators and the drive of our students.”

In just three years, Orange Beach City Schools have risen to the top of Alabama’s academic landscape, proving that high achievement is possible through teamwork, dedication, and a shared belief in every student’s potential. With top-tier results in science, math, and ELA, the district continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the state’s premier public school systems— and a shining example of what’s possible when a community believes in its schools.

MAKO SCHOLARS SOCIETY The August Board Meeting was one to remember as Orange Beach City Schools proudly recognized a new class of academic standouts. During the Work Session, the district officially inducted its newest members into the Mako Scholars Society, honoring students who achieved exceptional results on the 2025 ACAP and ACT assessments.

Each of these remarkable students scored within the top 1% in the state for their respective grade level and subject area—a distinction that reflects both individual dedication and the district’s commitment to academic excellence. The Mako Scholars Society celebrates the highest level of student achievement, recognizing those whose hard work and perseverance set them apart as leaders among their peers.

The evening served as a powerful reminder of the talent, determination, and promise of the student body.

Special thank you to our Platinum Sponsors at Culver’s of Orange Beach for donating $20 gift cards for each qualifying score per Mako Scholars Society inductee. We appreciate their investment in supporting our students academic achievements!

ACAP & AP INCENTIVES The September Board of Education meeting was one of celebration and pride for Orange Beach City Schools, as board members recognized the exceptional work of educators whose dedication to student success has propelled the district to new academic heights. During the meeting, teachers and staff were honored for their outstanding performance on the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) and Advanced Placement (AP) exams, recognition that came with a combined total of $103,700 in incentives.

The evening began by celebrating teachers whose students ranked in the top five statewide in ACAP proficiency.

Those honored included Becca Atkins and Abby Bauer for third-grade math; Janna Bradford for fourth-grade math; Nikki Walker for fourth-grade science; Callie Morgan, Liz Dore, and Caitlin Lawrence for fifth-grade English Language Arts; Kristen Rayborn for fifth-grade math; Lora Haghighi for sixth-grade math; Julie Robinson for seventh-grade math; and Brooke Neal for eighth-grade science.

Orange Beach City Schools also ranked among the state’s top five systems for second-grade reading proficiency, with students performing at or above grade level. Teachers in preschool through second grade were honored for ensuring at least 95% of the second-grade students read on or above grade level. Those recognized were Liz Wilson (K4), Kimberly Hollis, Sarah Hartley, Andrea Lynn, and Brandy Reeves (Kindergarten), Laura Blackburn, Phuong Doffee, Kelly Pouncey, and Shelly Ford (First Grade), and Svea Tierce, Laura Brannon, Karen Gentry, and Holly Barber (Second Grade).

High school Advanced Placement (AP) teachers were also commended for driving a 73% increase in passage rates, an impressive 14% improvement over the previous year. The district celebrated a record 385 qualifying AP scores. Those recognized included Chesley Sullivan (Biology), Drew Castillow (Calculus and Pre-Calculus), Morgan Soutullo (Chemistry and Environmental Science), Daniel Paul (Computer Science), Kim McBee (English Language), Kristie Garner (English Literature), Ben Slaton (Macroeconomics and Government), Rhonda Prater (Spanish), Madison Fields (Statistics), and Matthew Loper (U.S. History).

Orange Beach Elementary School was recognized for placing in the top 10 out of more than 1,500 public schools in Alabama. Every OBES employee received a $350 incentive in celebration of this milestone, which highlights the power of passionate teaching and strong community support.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the Board’s dedication to supporting the professional growth of its educators and providing an environment where every student can thrive. The recognition of these outstanding teachers reflects Orange Beach City Schools’ ongoing pursuit of excellence and sets the tone for another year of achievement and pride across the district.

HARD WORK, HIGH HONORS

Several students from Orange Beach City Schools have earned national recognition as AP Scholars, a distinction awarded by the College Board to students who demonstrate exceptional achievement on Advanced Placement (AP) exams. These honors celebrate students who have not only challenged themselves with rigorous, college-level coursework but have also excelled in mastering the material at a level that places them among the top-performing students in the country.

The AP Scholar designation is given to students who score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams, with higher distinctions, AP Scholar with Honor and AP Scholar with Distinction, awarded to those who achieve even higher averages across multiple exams. This year’s honorees represent a growing culture of academic excellence across Orange Beach City Schools, where students continue to push the boundaries of achievement and college readiness.

AP SCHOLARS Alison Archer Banks Bass Joseph Brown Blake Brunick Jason Courtney Alexandra Davis Richleigh Davis Ella Floyd William Glover Lily Godwin Charlotte Griffin Madeline Hembree Seanna Howard Mark Kalinauskas

Karley Knoth William Lawrence Luke Major Caroline McCloskey Mary Montgomery John Patty Jacob Peet Lakin Smith Breanna Stacy Blake Sterling Grayson Tucker David Walters Rivers Webb Mattison West

AP SCHOLARS WITH HONOR Maria Agundis Elijah Cardwell Sarah Claire Carswell Annie Foust Daniel Hembree Gracie McCoy Steven McNeal Meadow Ogg John Quigley Aidan Smith Mason Steiner

AP SCHOLARS WITH DISTINCTION Camryn Johnson Paige Lipke Bailey Miller Jake Phillips Kai Price Kaitlynn Roberston Clara Stone Georgia Welch Cameron Wiles

NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALIST P A I G E

L I P K E

For the first time in history, Orange Beach City Schools is proud to announce that a student has been named a National Merit Semifinalist. More than 1.3 million juniors from 20,000 high schools entered the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT/NMSQT®. Senior Paige Lipke has earned this designation. Fewer than one percent of U.S. high school seniors earn Semifinalist status, making this a incredibly remarkable and prestigious accomplishment.

INSTITUTE AWARDS

Orange Beach City Schools hosted its annual Institute in August and honored educators and staff for their exceptional contributions to student success.

The 7th Grade received Best Student Attendance, while 3rd Grade earned the State Sufficiency Award for the second year in a row. Leading academic excellence, 5th Grade Teachers Callie Morgan, Liz Dore, and Caitlin Lawrence were recognized for both Highest Student Proficiency and Highest Growth in ELA, and Kristen Rayborn received Highest Math Proficiency. Additional honorees included Julie Robinson for Math Growth, and Nikki Walker for Science Proficiency.

At the secondary level, Drew Castillow earned recognition for Highest Mean Group Score and Highest Percentage of AP Qualifying Scores, while Kristie Garner was honored for Most Exams Scoring 3+. Stephanie Dillon received the award for Greatest Number of Credentialed Students.

The 5th Grade Team was named PLC of the Year, and the OBMHS Counseling Team earned GRIT Team of the Year. Individual honors included Maggie Slaton with the Above & Beyond Award and Kayley Hoyle with the Mako Way Award.

Additional celebrations included the 80’s, 90’s, and 100 Clubs, recognizing outstanding academic performance and student proficiency across multiple grade levels. The ceremony concluded with a special acknowledgment of the OBES and OBMHS Child Nutrition Program Teams for their second consecutive year of receiving all 100s on their health inspections.

The Institute Awards showcased the dedication, collaboration, and excellence that define Orange Beach City Schools and its mission to provide exceptional opportunities for every student.

Second grade teacher Laura Brannon earned a place in the 100 Club at this year’s Institute event, an incredible achievement recognizing that 100% of her students were proficient during the 2024-2025 school year.

Congratulations, Mrs. Brannon!

MAKOS ON MAIN

To kick off each school year, The Wharf transforms into a sea of orange and blue for the annual Makos on Main celebration. This event brings together students, families, educators, and community members to celebrate all things Mako spirit. The evening begins with a student grade level parade. Spectators line the streets, cheering as the Marching Makos fill the air with music and the cheerleaders rally the crowd! Following the parade, the celebration continued with performances and pep-rally-style festivities at the new Portside at the Wharf stage. We are thankful for our partnership with The Wharf and for the support of our community!

PEP RALLIES

Pep rallies are one of our favorite traditions here in Orange Beach!

These spirited celebrations bring together students, staff, and families to cheer on our teams, recognize achievements, and build unity across our schools. Whether we’re firing up the football team for a Friday night game, celebrating A and A/B Honor Roll students at Orange Beach Elementary, or introducing our Homecoming Court to the community straight from the beach, each pep rally captures the energy and pride that define the Mako spirit. Special thank you to CoastAL for allowing us to host our Community Beach Pep Rally on their beachfront every year!

SEA, SAND, AND STARS REOPENING

Orange Beach City Schools celebrated the grand reopening of the Sea, Sand & Stars Steven W. Baker Science & Nature Center following a major revitalization project made possible through nearly $1 million in GoMESA funding.

The $979,684 investment, awarded through the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GoMESA), supported the addition of 18 new interactive exhibits and extensive upgrades to the facility, which continues to serve as a cornerstone for STEAM and environmental education at Orange Beach Elementary School.

Distinguished guests and Orange Beach Elementary School faculty and staff gathered for a special event marking the reopening. The program featured remarks from Superintendent Randy Wilkes, Principal Dr. Mary Catherine Law, Director Mary Courtney, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship, Pastor Jim Kinder, Representative Frances Holk-Jones, and Senator Chris Elliott. A guided tour of the newly enhanced center followed the ceremony.

The enhancements at Sea, Sand & Stars highlight a shared commitment to excellence in education, environmental stewardship, and student enrichment. The center will serve Orange Beach Elementary students throughout the school year and is expected to reopen to the public next summer.

MAKO STADIUM The lights of Mako Stadium shone for the very first time on Friday, August 22, 2025, as the Orange Beach Makos Varsity Football Team took the field against the Elberta Warriors. The long-awaited debut of the stadium included in the $46.1 million Athletic Complex brought the community together in a celebration years in the making.

Even a rain delay couldn’t dampen the spirit of opening night.

Excitement pulsed through the stands as fans filed into the gleaming new facility. The Shark Shack concession stand debuted its premiere lineup of local favorites, including Culver’s ButterBurgers, Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs, and Vinny’s Pizzeria slices. The orange and blue stadium lights danced across the crowd while the state-of-the-art jumbotron came to life in the south end zone.

The Marching Makos delivered a powerful halftime performance, the cheerleaders kept the energy high, and the MAAAC Tailgate under the pavilion, catered by Alabama Coastal Catering, buzzed with excitement. The night culminated in a commanding 34-14 victory for the Makos, sealing the game as a milestone moment in Orange Beach athletics history.

Just a few weeks later, the new stadium earned statewide attention as the Makos hosted Satsuma on September 18 for the AHSAA “Game of the Week,” televised live on Alabama Public Television. The broadcast featured a comprehensive pregame show and showcased every facet of a Mako game day, from the spirited cheerleaders and the Marching Makos performing live on air to photos of the stunning new facilities.

Before kickoff, the field came alive with a celebration of academic achievement as students from Orange Beach Elementary and Orange Beach Middle and High School paraded across the field during the district’s first annual Proficiency Parade, sponsored

by Cosmo’s Restaurant. The event honored those who scored at or above proficiency on the state ACAP assessments in Math and Reading, recognizing students for their hard work and success. Each student received a $25 gift card to Cosmo’s in recognition of this accomplishment.

Between the first and second quarters, the Makos Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club (MAAAC) presented a $75,000 donation to Orange Beach City Schools in a formal check presentation on the field, symbolizing the organization’s continued commitment to supporting students across all areas of achievement.

CoastAL Orange Beach, one of Orange Beach City Schools’ Diamond Sponsors, catered that evening’s MAAAC Tailgate and even welcomed the APTV crew for a delicious meal. Under the Friday night lights, the Makos once again rose to the occasion, defeating Satsuma 47 to 21.

SPONSORSHIPS

Orange Beach City Schools and the Mako Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club (MAAAC) launched a unified sponsorship initiative for the 2025-2026 school year, creating a powerful partnership that continues to strengthen the connection between schools, students, and the community.

The effort aligned perfectly with the opening of the new $46.1 million Athletic Complex, offering local and regional businesses a chance to play a direct role in supporting student success. Through this unified approach, sponsors were able to contribute to academics, arts, and athletics while gaining exclusive visibility across a passionate and engaged Mako community.

Since its introduction, the program has grown rapidly, with 143 sponsors collectively contributing just under $1 million in support of Orange Beach City Schools. The success reflects the community’s deep commitment to investing in opportunities that enhance the educational experience and celebrate student achievement in every arena.

MAAAC has long served as a driving force behind this mission, contributing more than $1.5 million over the years to support student programs and initiatives. The unified sponsorship program built upon that legacy, simplifying the process for partners and expanding the range of benefits available through new tiered sponsorship levels. Businesses of all sizes found meaningful ways to participate, from stadium signage and digital exposure to event recognition and VIP experiences.

The addition of the new athletic facilities provided sponsors with unmatched opportunities for brand exposure, connecting their businesses to the historic moments this school year. From game days and performances to academic recognitions, sponsor involvement became an integral part of the Orange Beach City Schools experience.

With the program’s early success, the district and MAAAC demonstrated how a shared vision can bring together community partners in support of students. The unified sponsorship initiative stands as a model of collaboration, showcasing what can be achieved when schools and community members work side by side to advance educational opportunities.

THANK YOU

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RIBBON CUTTING

Orange Beach City Schools officially celebrated the grand opening of its long-awaited Athletic Complex with a ribbon cutting ceremony that marked a defining moment in the district’s history. The state-of-the-art facilities, representing a $46.1 million investment, symbolize years of planning, collaboration, and commitment to providing first-class opportunities for students.

Community members, city officials, school leaders, sponsors, and students gathered in the new gymnasium to commemorate the milestone. The ceremony showcased the strength of partnership that made the vision a reality. Superintendent Randy Wilkes, Mayor Tony Kennon, and Board of Education President Randy McKinney shared reflections on the journey that transformed a dream into one of the premier athletic venues in Alabama.

Following the formal ribbon cutting, guests were invited to tour the expansive new facilities, which include Mako Stadium, a Kinesiology and Exercise Science buidling, a covered practice pavilion and a new gymnasium. The design of the complex reflects the district’s commitment to excellence, ensuring that every student-athlete, performer, and fan experiences the best that Orange Beach has to offer. The celebration extended beyond athletics, highlighting the collaboration between Orange Beach City Schools, the City of Orange Beach, and the Mako Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club. Diamond and Platinum sponsors who contributed to the project and the unified sponsorship program were recognized for their continued investment in student success. Their support helped ensure that the new complex would best serve the Orange Beach students.

As guests explored the new spaces, it was clear that the Athletic Complex represents far more than new buildings. It stands as a symbol of progress, pride, and purpose for a district that continues to set the standard for excellence in the state of Alabama. The ribbon cutting ceremony marked the beginning of a new era for Orange Beach City Schools. It was a day filled with gratitude, excitement, and a shared belief in what can be achieved when a community unites around its schools.

This fall season was one to remember for Orange Beach Middle & High School as our student-athletes demonstrated determination, growth, and school spirit across every field, court, and course. From the roar of the crowd in the new Mako Stadium to record-setting performances across multiple sports, the fall of 2025 reflected the heart of what it means to be a Mako.

VOLLEYBALL The Orange Beach Varsity Volleyball team had a remarkable season, earning the title of Area Champions and advancing to the regional championship game before competing at the state tournament. The Makos finished among the top four teams in Alabama. Their teamwork, energy, and consistent play kept fans on their feet all season and set a new standard of excellence for Orange Beach Volleyball.

CROSS COUNTRY The Cross Country team made steady strides throughout the fall, showing impressive growth and improvement at each meet. The team’s dedication paid off at the Baldwin County Championships at Bicentennial Park, where junior Aaron Tierce earned an outstanding 3rd place overall finish. His performance highlighted the team’s perseverance and commitment to representing the Makos with pride.

SWIMMING The Orange Beach Swim team made waves this season by hosting its first-ever home meet, a milestone moment for the program. The team continued to build momentum throughout the season and is set to compete in the upcoming district meet. The swimmers’ dedication and teamwork both in and out of the pool reflected the growing strength of Orange Beach aquatics.

FOOTBALL The Mako Football team took the field this season with renewed excitement, opening a new era in the all-new Mako Stadium. Each home game brought the community together under the lights, filling the stands with energy and marking the beginning of a new chapter for Mako Football in one of the premier athletic venues in the state.

CHEERLEADING Orange Beach Cheer had a standout season, showcasing both school spirit and competitive excellence. The Varsity Cheer team earned a 2nd place finish at Super Regionals to qualify for the State Championship, while the Orange Beach Middle and High School JV Cheer team captured the title of JV Regional Gameday Champions.

Both teams continued to energize crowds at every event, from pep rallies to Friday night games, embodying the enthusiasm that defines the Mako spirit.

CHAMPIONS HONORED During the August meeting of the Orange Beach Board of Education, the district proudly recognized the Trap and Skeet team and the Softball team for capturing state championships during the 2024–2025 school year. Their success served as a reminder of the exceptional talent and drive within the Orange Beach athletic community and inspired every fall athlete who wore the Mako logo this season.

From community celebrations to competition success, the band showcased the pride and excellence that define Orange Beach City Schools. The Marching Makos earned top honors at the White Sands Marching Competition, receiving Superior ratings in Music Ensemble, Drum Major, and Color Guard, along with Excellent ratings in Percussion, Visual Ensemble, and General Effect. They also took home Best in Class 2A Auxiliary, with Drum Major Paige placing among the Top 3 Drum Majors of the entire competition.

The Marching Makos also performed the National Anthem at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Orange Beach City Schools Athletic Complex. During Homecoming Week, they energized every event, from the elementary and OBMHS pep rallies to the Community Pep Rally at the beach. Their performances brought the celebrations to life and united the entire Mako family.

A huge shoutout to our amazing Marching Makos parent volunteers working hard in the Shark Shack. All proceeds from the Shark Shack directly benefit our growing band program. Thank you for giving your time and supporting The Marching Makos. We couldn’t do it without you!

LEARNING THROUGH THE LENS

Mr. Felkel’s Digital Media students have officially launched Makos in the Morning, a student-led broadcast that highlights the creativity, collaboration, and communication skills of Orange Beach Middle and High School students. Broadcasting from the school’s new studio, built courtesy of a Middle School Innovation Grant, students are gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of production. From writing and filming to editing and on-air delivery, they are learning the full scope of broadcast journalism while keeping their peers informed and engaged. In addition to producing Makos in the Morning, the students also create The Mako Minute, a daily radio segment airing on SUNNY 105.7 that keeps the community updated on school events and accomplishments.

The program continues to grow as students develop their voices and technical expertise, proudly representing Orange Beach City Schools on air and in the community. Through these efforts, the next generation of Mako media leaders is learning to tell the stories that matter most to their school and their city.

T H E

M A K O

W A Y

At Orange Beach City Schools, Living the Mako Way is about more than achievement. It reflects a daily commitment to caring, honesty, respect, integrity, and trust. These values guide how students learn, how teachers lead, and how the community comes together in support of one another. Whether in academics, the arts, or athletics, Makos strive to do their best and lift others along the way. Living the Mako Way is the foundation of who we are and the spirit that defines Orange Beach City Schools.