Meet Mr. Dixon

A Lifetime of Service to Students

For nearly three decades, Joel Dixon has devoted his life to public education—as a teacher, principal, and district leader. Now in his 28th year in education, Joel’s passion has always been the same: helping students grow academically, socially, and personally so they are prepared for meaningful, successful lives.

He believes public schools play a vital role in shaping not just strong students, but strong citizens.
 

“Public schools are where students learn to think critically, ask questions, explore new ideas, and engage respectfully with people who see the world differently. Our schools don’t just prepare students for tests, they prepare them for life.”
 

A proud resident of Columbiana, Alabama, Joel has dedicated his career to strengthening schools, supporting educators, and advancing the mission of Shelby County Schools—preparing every child for the journey ahead.
 

Experience That Matters

In the Classroom

Joel began his career as a high school English teacher at McAdory High School, where he spent ten years shaping young minds and building a deep appreciation for the power of education.
 

In School Leadership

His passion for service led him into administration, where he served as:

• Assistant Principal, Calera High School

• Principal, Vincent Middle High School

• Principal, Calera High School

In every role, Joel focused on raising academic achievement, strengthening school culture, and building meaningful partnerships with families and communities.
 

At the District Level

Since 2020, Joel has served Shelby County Schools as:

• Human Resources Supervisor

• Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources
   

In these roles, he has led efforts in:

• Teacher recruitment and retention

• Leadership development

• Building support systems that help educators thrive
   

Joel believes that when schools invest in teachers and staff, students win.
 

Education & Professional Training

Joel’s leadership is grounded in both experience and education:

• Bachelor of Arts in English – University of Alabama at Birmingham

• Master of Arts in Secondary Education – UAB

• Administrative Certification – University of Montevallo

• Education Specialist Degree in Instructional Leadership – UAB
   

These credentials support his thoughtful, strategic approach to leading one of Alabama’s strongest school districts.

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Rooted in Family and Community

Joel and his wife, Amy, live in Columbiana with their children, Emily and Will. Their family life is centered on faith, service, and community involvement, values that guide Joel’s work every day.

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“Shelby County is made up of diverse communities, each a wonderful place to raise a family. While our seven school zones are unique, I’m proud that the quality of instruction is strong across the entire district. Every student deserves access to excellent teachers and the resources they need to succeed.”

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From small-town schools to larger campuses, Joel sees firsthand the dedication of educators across the county and works daily to support them.

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A Vision for Shelby County Schools

As a candidate for Superintendent, Joel Dixon is committed to leading with:

• Vision – planning for the future of education

• Compassion – caring deeply for students and educators

• Integrity – stewarding public trust and resources wisely

• Excellence – ensuring every child has access to outstanding instruction

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His promise is simple:
To serve every student, every educator, and every family in Shelby County with heart, humility, and unwavering dedication.