Connie Spears

Connie Spears earned a high school diploma from E.B. Erwin High School and a bachelor's degree from Auburn University in 1986. Her career experience includes working as a community volunteer.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I served 10 years on the City of Madison Board of Education and 5 years on the Madison City Council. I am an advocate for all children and public education.

I was elected to serve on the Madison City Council as the city’s representative for District 2 in 2020. I served as the city’s representative on the Madison Utilities Board and the Top of Alabama Region Council of Governments Board (TARCOG). I served as the TARCOG Board President from 2023-2025. I also served as Chair on the city’s Finance Committee and is the city’s liaison for the Madison Chamber of Commerce, The council liaison for Information Technology Department the Planning Department and the City Clerk’s Department.

I retired from the City of Madison Board of Education after being appointed in 2009 and serving 10 years. I served on the district's Capital Planning, Safety and Security, Policy, Community Relations and Advocacy, Curriculum and Instruction and Finance Committees. I also served as the board’s Legislative Liaison, advocating for children in both Montgomery and Washington, DC. While on the Board of Education, I served two terms on the Alabama Association of School Boards Board of Directors and also Chaired their Advocacy Committee.

I am dedicated to serving the citizens of Limestone, Madison, Jackson and DeKalb counties.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Our students’ education should not be dependent on their zip code. It is well past the time that every student should have access to the educational resources they need to excel at not just at the state or national level, but at the global level. I pledge to work hard to ensure that every student gets these resources. We have made great strides, but we must keep pushing for continuing improvement.Education professionals are the backbone of our school systems, and their expertise must be respected and valued. I am committed to advocating for educators’ voices in discussions about educational policy and reform. It is essential to listen to teachers, administrators, and support staff who understand the needs of our students firsthand. I will listen to and work with educators to share their insights and experiences, ensuring that decisions made at the state level are informed by their expertise and the best interest of our students.Parental involvement isn't just helpful—it's essential. It builds a strong foundation for a child’s success in school and in life. When parents actively participate in their child’s education, whether by attending school events, helping with homework, or communicating with teachers, children are more likely to perform better academically and develop positive attitudes toward learning. This support not only boosts grades but also builds confidence, discipline, and motivation. Ultimately, when parents and schools work together, children thrive both inside and outside the classroom. I will always stand with our parents.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

It’s essential to find an approach to education policy in line with Alabama’s values. We must advocate for policies which respect state & local control while ensuring that federal resources are used effectively to support our schools. We must work collaboratively with federal & state agencies to address the unique needs of Alabama’s students & educators. By building & growing relationships with our lawmakers & encouraging frequent free-flowing communication between the state board, state superintendent & our legislators, we can build a collaborative force to work more effectively for our schools. A collaborative approach respects the autonomy of local education authorities & ensures accountability.