LETTER FROM Superintendent Wilkes There are moments in a school system’s life when it’s essential to pause and celebrate the work of many people coming together around a shared purpose. This is one of those moments. When the Alabama State Department of Education released its annual report cards, Orange Beach City Schools was ranked #2 in the entire state. For a district established in 2022, this recognition reflects the collective efforts of our students, teachers, administrators, and staff, and it is something our entire community can be proud of. Our students continue to demonstrate growth, perseverance, and a willingness to rise to high expectations. Our teachers bring expertise, creativity, and care into classrooms every day. Our administrators and staff build systems that support learning, consistency, and opportunity. Together, you have created a culture focused on both excellence and continuous improvement. State report cards provide a critical snapshot of how school systems are serving students. They consider multiple factors, including academic achievement, academic growth, college and career readiness, attendance, and graduation rates. We view these measures as valuable indicators—tools that help us celebrate progress, identify strengths, and guide future work. Being ranked #2 in the state is a meaningful milestone, but it is not the destination. It is encouraging that our focus on students, rigorous instruction, and aligned systems is making a difference. We remain committed to learning from the data, building on our successes, and continuing to grow together. Thank you for your trust, support, and belief in Orange Beach City Schools. The momentum we are building is real, and the future ahead is bright. Sincerely,
William R. Wilkes, Superintendent
98 STRONG The Mako Way Orange Beach City Schools (OBCS) continues its remarkable rise as one of Alabama’s highest-performing districts, earning an impressive 98 on the 2025 Alabama State Report Card, based on 2024-2025 school year data. An achievement earned in three short years, this score places OBCS firmly among the state’s elite school systems. This year’s results build on a strong upward trajectory across all academic indicators. As a school district, Orange Beach City Schools scored 1st in the state in Math, 2nd in Science, and 4th in English Language Arts on the 2025 state testing. These outcomes highlight the district’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that every student receives a rigorous, high-quality educational experience. At Orange Beach Elementary School (OBES), the academic gains were extraordinary. OBES increased its report card score from a 97 to a 99, placing the school less than twelve one-hundredths of a point away from a perfect score. The accomplishment reinforces OBES’s reputation as one of the strongest elementary programs in the state. Orange Beach Middle & High School (OBMHS) also made notable improvements, increasing from a 94 to a 95 while earning 100% of possible points for graduation rate. The school’s commitment to student success extends far beyond academics, reflected in its significant strides in reducing chronic absenteeism. Improving student attendance has remained a major focus across the district. Over the past two years, OBMHS reduced chronic absenteeism from 27% to less than 12%, while OBES decreased its rate from 9% to 4%. We are incredibly proud of our students, teachers, staff, and administrators for their dedication to excellence!
WIGGING OUT
Orange Beach Elementary School was “wigging out” over their incredible report card score! The staff celebrated in style by wearing colorful wigs during the school day when the scores were released. OBES students were treated to bounce houses during PE a few days following the announcement!
2ND IN THE STATE When Orange Beach City Schools launched in 2022, Superintendent Wilkes and city leadership set an ambitious target: to become one of the Top 10 school systems in Alabama within four years. Today, OBCS has exceeded that goal, achieving #2 in just three years. Even with this milestone, Orange Beach City Schools remains forward-focused. The district’s priorities continue to be strong attendance, ensuring students are present and fully engaged each day, and continued growth in academic proficiency, with students working toward mastery in every subject and at every grade level.
FIRST RESPONDER Appreciation Luncheon Our second annual First Responder Appreciation Luncheon was a truly special day for our schools. Thanks to the generous support of one of our MAAAC sponsors, Rouse’s Markets, we were able to provide a delicious meal in honor of our hometown heroes. The Orange Beach Fire Department joined our elementary students for lunch, while the Orange Beach Police Department visited with students at Orange Beach Middle & High School. Throughout the lunch, students had the opportunity to connect with our first responders, learning more about their work and building meaningful relationships. We are deeply grateful for the brave men and women who protect and serve our schools and our city every day!
VETERANS DAY
Program
The annual Veterans Day Program at Orange Beach Elementary School was once again a meaningful and memorable celebration of service and sacrifice. Our first-grade students proudly lined the hallway to the gymnasium, waving American flags as they welcomed veterans into the building with smiles and gratitude. The program featured heartfelt poems shared by students, moving performances of the National Anthem and “Thank You, Soldier” by the OBES Choir, and a patriotic Military Medley performed by each grade level. We are deeply thankful for the veterans who have served our nation, and we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom.
EXCEPTIONAL Thanksgiving Feast On Friday, November 14th, Orange Beach City Schools celebrated our second annual Exceptional Thanksgiving Feast! Students enjoyed festive Thanksgiving arts and crafts, fun holiday-themed games, and a delicious Thanksgiving meal. It was a truly memorable day filled with joy, laughter, and gratitude!
PARENTS’ DAY Thanksgiving Feast Orange Beach City Schools celebrated another unforgettable Parents Day Thanksgiving Feast, a cherished tradition that continues to grow each year. The festivities began at Orange Beach Middle & High School, where a record number of meals were served to visiting families. The celebration continued across two days at Orange Beach Elementary School, welcoming parents from every grade level to share in the joy of the season. Our outstanding Child Nutrition Program team worked diligently behind the scenes, preparing a feast that was both homemade and heartfelt. From the savory cornbread dressing to the much-anticipated pumpkin fluff dessert, every dish reflected the care and dedication our staff brings to students each day. Parents Day is one of our favorite annual traditions, offering families the chance to gather around the table, connect with one another, and experience a small piece of daily life on our campuses. We are grateful for the opportunity to welcome our parents into our schools and look forward to continuing this special celebration for years to come.
FARM TO SCHOOL Culinary Challenge Orange Beach Middle & High School is proud to be selected to participate in the Alabama Farm to School Culinary Challenge, an exciting statewide initiative led by the Alabama State Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs in partnership with the Chef Ann Foundation. Supported by the USDA 2022 Farm to School Formula Grant, the program encourages schools to incorporate fresh, Alabama-grown ingredients into scratch-made, student-approved meals. Out of schools across the state, Orange Beach Middle & High School was selected as one of approximately 15 schools to participate in this hands-on culinary opportunity. The challenge is designed to build culinary skills, expand scratch cooking, and increase the use of locally sourced products in school cafeterias while giving students nutritious meals. Throughout the 2025-2026 school year, students at Orange Beach Middle & High School have already enjoyed a series of scratch-made dishes featuring local ingredients. Highlights so far include: • October 2025: Pulled Pork Sandwich with Alabama White Sauce, featuring locally sourced pork from Foley, Alabama, paired with a scratch-made white barbecue sauce • November 2025: Chicken Tacos with Citrus Salsa and Cajun Sweet Potatoes, showcasing locally grown potatoes from Silverhill, Alabama • December 2025: Herb Roasted Potatoes, prepared fresh in-house The excitement continues into the spring semester with upcoming student taste-tests that invite feedback and engagement in the menu development process. Planned dishes include: • January 30, 2026: Green Beans with Warm Bacon Vinaigrette • February 2026 (TBD): Watermelon Smoothie Bowl • March 2026 (TBD): Thai Peanut Chicken Noodles • April 2026 (TBD): Blueberry Coffee Cake • May 2026 (TBD): Cheesy Squash, Sausage, and Rice Casserole This initiative not only introduces students to fresh, flavorful meals made from Alabama-grown ingredients, but also creates meaningful connections between classrooms, cafeterias, and local agriculture, one delicious dish at a time.
Our theatre program proudly presented “Girls in the Boat” this past fall! Based on true events, the production tells the inspiring story of a fearless team of women rowers who push past doubt, fight for their place, and discover the strength found in teamwork, grit, and perseverance. Through powerful performances and thoughtful storytelling, the cast and crew brought this message of determination, friendship, and breaking barriers to life across four outstanding performances.
STATE Trumbauer Festival
Orange Beach Theatre students attended the State Trumbauer Festival, competing alongside more than 2,500 students from across the state. Their talent and preparation were on full display as they brought home outstanding honors, including first place in Set Design for Paige Lipke; second place finishes for Tennyson Tucker, Sam Robertson, and Carlli Lenze in Pantomime and for Dustin Opperud in Lighting Design; and a third place award for Annabelle Brown in Solo Musical. In addition, the group earned an impressive 23 Superior scores and three Excellence scores. We are incredibly proud of the heart, discipline, and creativity demonstrated by this remarkable crew!
BOYS BASKETBALL
MAKO Athletics
The Orange Beach Makos boys basketball program continues to build momentum as one of Alabama’s premier teams. Ranked #4 in the ASWA Class 4A poll, the team put together an eight-game winning streak and earned statement victories over UMS-Wright, Gulf Shores High School, Foley High School, and defending state champion The Montgomery Academy. Orange Beach also showcased its growing role as a host site, welcoming 14 teams for a Thanksgiving tournament and 16 boys and girls teams for a pre-Christmas event. Over the holiday break, the Makos traveled to Birmingham, earning wins over defending state runner-up Tuscaloosa Academy and 6A opponent Hueytown High School, before a hard-fought loss to defending state runner-up Mars Hill Bible School.
GIRLS BASKETBALL
The Lady Makos entered January tested and battle-ready, having played one of the toughest schedules in the state. According to MaxPreps, Orange Beach owns the third-toughest strength of schedule among 68 Class 4A girls basketball teams. A signature win over perennial powerhouse UMS-Wright on December 9 marked a milestone moment in the new competition gym. Over Christmas break, the Makos went 2–1 at the Gulf Shores Tournament, continuing to gain confidence and experience. With a young roster poised for growth, January begins with area play. Adding to the excitement, Coach Chase sits at career win number 599, just one victory away from joining the elite 600 Win Club, an achievement reached by only 18 girls basketball coaches in the history of the Alabama High School Athletic Association.
BOWLING
Orange Beach bowling continues to be a model of consistency and competitiveness. The girls bowling team remains undefeated, ranked #3 in the state in Classes 1A-5A and currently holding the #1 spot in area play. With six seniors providing leadership, the Lady Makos have qualified for regional competition on January 22-23 and enter the postseason with high expectations. On the boys side, the Makos also feature six seniors and are ranked third in area play with two area matches remaining. Sporting a 5-4 overall record, the team is battling for the crucial #2 regional seed. January will wrap up the bowling season, with both programs aiming to make another strong run toward a state championship.
WRESTLING
The Orange Beach wrestling program continues to develop and grow within the winter athletics lineup, reaching several historic milestones that highlight the hard work and determination of the Makos on the mat. This season, the program captured the Gulf Shores JV Kickoff Tournament for the first JV tournament win in school history and followed with a victory at the Gator Duals Tournament in Satsuma, marking the first varsity tournament championship in program history. The Makos currently hold a 14-3 duals record, with all three losses coming only against 7A schools, and have already set a new program record for most dual wins in a season with a month remaining. Orange Beach also hosted its first Varsity Boys’ and Girls’ wrestling tournament on campus since 2021, utilizing two mats in the new Athletic Complex Gym and two mats under the pavilion.
TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
JANNA BRADFORD
ORANGE BEACH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Janna Bradford, Fourth Grade Math Teacher at OBES, has been named Elementary Teacher of the Year. Known for her calm, patient, and consistent approach, she teaches math in a way that “just clicks” for students. Her class earned the #1 ACAP Math scores in the state of Alabama, and her students routinely demonstrate some of the highest growth and proficiency in our school. It isn’t just her exceptional academic results, it’s her heart that truly sets her apart. She builds strong, caring relationships with her students, holds high expectations while meeting each child exactly where they are, and pours into our community—spending afternoons tutoring at Expect Excellence and evenings connecting with families. We are proud to honor her remarkable impact on OBES.
GRACE STANTON
ORANGE BEACH MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL
Grace Stanton, our wonderful Theatre Director and Drama teacher at Orange Beach Middle/High School, has been named Secondary Teacher of the Year. She inspires students every day with her passion, creativity, and belief in their abilities. Her students often say she “helps everyone do their best, whether they are onstage or working behind the scenes,” and she creates a classroom where they feel supported and encouraged. Her coworkers describe her as “a strong leader who turns ideas into great performances,” and families often share that she “makes theatre feel like a home for every student.” Through her hard work and care, Mrs. Stanton has built a program that highlights student talent and teaches confidence, teamwork, and the joy of performing.
STAFF MEMBERS OF THE YEAR
ELIZABETH WOOD
ORANGE BEACH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Elizabeth Wood, Special Education Paraprofessional, has been named OBES Staff Member of the Year. Elizabeth has the biggest heart for children and treats every student as if they were her own. Her flexibility and willingness to jump in—always saying, “Put me where you need me!”—make her an invaluable support across our school. She brings tremendous joy and compassion to our special education department and to OBES as a whole. Her sweet, calming presence helps every child feel important, valued, and loved. Dependable, hardworking, and always ready to help before help is even requested, Elizabeth lifts up everyone around her. Her positive influence is felt by students, teachers, and families alike. We are truly fortunate to have her on our team.
RACHEL PETTIWAY
ORANGE BEACH MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL
Rachel Pettiway, our outstanding bookkeeper at Orange Beach Middle/High School, has been named OBMHS Staff Member of the Year. She is known for her steady professionalism, positive attitude, and willingness to help others. Teachers often say she “keeps our school running smoothly every single day,” and that she is “the person we can always count on.” Staff members frequently mention that she “handles every task with patience and kindness,” making everyone feel supported and valued. Her attention to detail, dependability, and friendly nature make Ms. Pettiway an essential part of our school family and a true example of dedication and service.
CHRISTMAS Band Concert The Orange Beach Middle & High School Christmas Band Concert brought the sounds of the season to life during a festive evening at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center. Families, friends, and community members gathered to celebrate the talents of student musicians while enjoying a thoughtfully curated program that highlighted growth, versatility, and holiday spirit across the band program. The concert opened with the Beginning Band, whose performance reflected the strong foundation being built among the district’s youngest musicians. Selections such as Holiday Rock, Jingle Bells, In Time for the Holidays, and We Wish You a Merry Christmas filled the room with cheerful melodies, showcasing the students’ early progress and enthusiasm for music. Next, the 7th Grade Band took the stage with a lively and entertaining set that included First Rocking Christmas, Christmas Fun, and 20 Carols in 2 Minutes. Their performance demonstrated growing musical maturity and an ability to balance fun with focused musicianship. The Jazz Band added a dynamic and energetic layer to the program with festive classics including Christmas Is Coming, Jingle Bell Rock, and Santa Claus Is Coming to Town. Their upbeat rhythms and polished style brought a contemporary holiday flair that energized the audience. The High School Wind Ensemble, delivering a powerful and polished performance featuring Sparkling Lights, Sleigh Ride, Air for Band, Christmas Vacation, and You Better Sleigh. Their set highlighted advanced musicianship, strong ensemble balance, and expressive performances that reflected the depth and excellence of the program. The Color Guard also performed a festive, student-choreographed number to conclude the evening. From beginner musicians to advanced performers, each ensemble contributed to an evening that captured the joy of the season while showcasing the dedication, growth, and talent of the Orange Beach Band Program.
Orange Beach Elementary School hosted its annual Christmas Program at the Orange Beach Event Center, highlighting the musical talents of students in Kindergarten through fifth grade. Families and community members filled the venue to enjoy festive performances that celebrated the holiday season and the hard work of the students and staff.
G R A N D P A R E N T S’ Day at OBES We were rocking around the Christmas tree at Grandparents Day this year, and what a special celebration it was! Orange Beach Elementary was filled with joy, laughter, and holiday cheer as our students spent meaningful, quality time with some of their very favorite people: their grandparents. From festive photo spots that captured priceless memories, to custom photo ornaments to treasure for years to come, every detail was designed to make the day extra special. Add in the sweet treats shared and the warm smiles throughout the building, and it was clear just how much these moments meant to everyone involved. We are so grateful to our grandparents for joining us and making this holiday celebration one to remember!
NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NB ANGELANBCT MURDY NBCT BROOKE NEAL NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NBCT NB NBCT NBCT NB STEPHANIENBCT DILLON We are incredibly proud to celebrate three outstanding educators for achieving one of the highest credentials in the teaching profession. Mrs. Angela Murdy earned her National Board Certification as an Exceptional Needs Specialist, Mrs. Brooke Neal earned her National Board Certification in Science, and Mrs. Stephanie Dillon successfully maintained her National Board Certification in Career and Technical Education. Their dedication to excellence, professionalism, and continued growth reflects the high standards of teaching and learning at Orange Beach City Schools.
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RESPECT. HONESTY. TRUST. INTEGRITY. CARING.