Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Image by Jolei Higgins
For more than 27 years, Kyle Dutton has dedicated himself to public education, taking on roles as a teacher, counselor, principal, and now as a District Administrator for Walker County Schools. Recently, he added another achievement to his career: completing the Alabama Superintendents Academy.
While the program is designed to prepare educators for potential superintendent roles, Dutton’s goal in completing the academy was not to pursue that position but rather to strengthen his leadership abilities and better serve Walker County students and educators.
A Jasper native, Dutton never set out to be an administrator, but thanks to strong mentors, he found himself drawn to leadership.
“I was fortunate to work with Dr. Diane Jones, who hired me as a teacher at T.W. Martin School in 1998, and I was able to follow her to Carbon Hill High School in 2000,” Dutton said. “She believed in me and gave me opportunities to lead before I even realized I was capable. She pushed me to always be more than I thought I could.”
That belief stuck with him, shaping how he approaches his work today. Whether helping students or supporting teachers and administrators. Dutton has always been driven by the idea that strong leadership makes a real difference in education.
The Alabama Superintendents Academy, a highly selective program run by the University of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education, brings together educators from across the state to learn about school finance, law, curriculum, communication, and other leadership essentials.
“I appreciate the time and effort that Mr. Dutton put into the Superintendents Academy. The application process is very involved, and it is an honor just to be chosen to enter the program,” said Dr. Dennis Willingham, Superintendent of Walker County Schools. “Mr. Dutton is a servant leader to our students and school staff. Although he already does an exceptional job, this professional development will enhance his leadership skills.”
“I would encourage other administrators to apply to the Superintendents Academy, whether you are interested in pursuing the superintendency or just want to learn more about the way a school system operates,” Willingham added.
Over the course of a year, Dutton participated in sessions with a cohort of approximately 35 educators from diverse backgrounds across Alabama.
“The best part was getting to learn from other educators who deal with the same challenges every day,” Dutton said. “We built strong relationships, and I walked away with a lot of valuable insight.”
One unexpected bonus? Reconnecting with an old friend.
“Chad Shannon and I started our teaching careers together when he was in Jasper more than 25 years ago, and now he’s an administrator in Cullman City,” Dutton said. “Going through this program together after all these years reminded me how small the education world can be and how important those lifelong connections are.”
Dutton’s participation in the program aligns with his ongoing efforts to bring innovative leadership strategies to Walker County Schools. While some participants in the academy may use the training as a stepping stone toward a superintendent role, Dutton remains focused on applying what he learned to his current position.
“This program is great for any educator in leadership, whether you’re a campus or district administrator,” he said. “This was a chance to learn from some of the best while also sharing my own experiences.”
Dutton continues to focus on making a difference in Walker County, helping students succeed, supporting teachers, and ensuring the district continues moving forward. WL
