Power in the Voice: Celebrating Parent Leaders Across Alabama

On Saturday, April 5th, 2025, in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, the energy in the room was electric. Parents, educators, advocates, and community members gathered to celebrate the graduation of Parent Voice Cohort 3, a group of passionate charter school parents committed to improving education across the state.

Over the course of the day, these parents shared what it means to be not just involved—but empowered. Representing schools from Mobile to Birmingham to rural Alabama, these fellows are united by a simple truth: parents are the most important stakeholders in a child’s education.

Each fellow—Ashley Smith (i3 Academy), Barbara Harper (Alabama Aerospace & Aviation HS), Candice Land (Accel Academy), Christina Hill-Lapsley (Breakthrough Charter School), Latasha Tate (Legacy Prep), Latoya Strong (Empower Community School), Lavetta Harvell (i3 Academy), Melodie Scott (Legacy Prep), and Quintella Boyd (Alabama Aerospace & Aviation HS, University Charter School)—spoke with passion about how this fellowship helped them find their voice, advocate for change, and uplift other families in their communities.

Ida Evans. Accel Academy , Fellow of the Year

One of the standout moments came from Ida Evans, a graduate from Cohort 2 and parent at Accel Academy in Mobile. Ida was honored as the NSFA Parent Voice Fellow of the Year, and her speech reminded everyone why this work matters: “We are not just parents—we are leaders, organizers, and protectors of our children’s futures.”

The day featured powerful sessions, including remarks from Tyler Barnett, Dr. Erica Littleton, and Maritza Guridy. Maritza’s words sparked reflection: “You don’t need permission to lead—your lived experience gives you authority.”

As each parent received their certificate, it was more than a graduation—it was a movement. The Parent Voice Fellowship isn't just about training parents. It's about building a collective that holds schools accountable, champions educational equity, and ensures families are truly heard.

The 2025 Parent Voice Cohort 3 leaves behind a challenge for all of us: listen to parents, trust parents, and follow their lead.