Inside Look: Superintendents Mark Sullivan and Walter Gonsoulin Dive into Alabama's Public Education Needs

Birmingham City Schools (BCS) Superintendent Mark Sullivan, Ed.D., and Jefferson County Schools (JEFCOED) Superintendent Walter Gonsoulin, Ed.D., are no strangers to hurdles. As they gear up for the start of the 2025-2026 school year on August 7, challenges persist. The U.S. Supreme Court recently enabled the Trump administration to dismiss over 1,000 employees from the U.S. Department of Education. Furthermore, just days later, it was reported that the release of over $6 billion in federal grants would occur. Nevertheless, Gonsoulin and Sullivan have proven their mettle throughout their careers. Gonsoulin, Alabama’s first African American school leader, earned the prestigious title of National Superintendent of the Year. Meanwhile, Sullivan has significantly improved academic metrics since 2021, enhancing student support programs drastically. Their recently held joint interview at the Birmingham Public Library shed light on key topics, including the urgent need for varied educational representation, the potential dismantling of the USDOE, and reaffirming their commitment to uplifting public education in Alabama.