Hale County Board Members

 Mr. Christopher Carter is a native of Newbern, AL and also a High School graduate of Sunshine High School. After High School, he continued his education by earning a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in English with a concentration in Journalism.

 A highly advanced communication skill set let to a career in the jewelry industry for over 20 years. Now recently in the last few years becoming a proud owner of his own business "The Jewelry Professional". He seeks to provide jewlry service in the Black Belt Community.

 As part of his dedication and passion for helping his community grow, he also took his role further by becoming an educator for over 3 years now. He seeks to inspire and empower his community through hard work and being a positive influence in a much needed educational environment.

Keisha Thigpen is a native of Greensboro, Alabama and is a graduate of Greensboro High School. She continued her education at Alabama A&M University, earning a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education. Mrs. Thigpen also received a Masters of Education and an Ed.S degree in Elementary Education from the University of West Alabama. Mrs. Thigpen is an educator with 28 years of experience and is currently working as a Reading Specialist. She is a proud wife, mother, and grandmother. Additionally, she has served as an educator, mentor, and is an esteemed member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. As a member of the Hale County Board of Education, her focus is on fostering a safe, inclusive, and innovative learning environment where every student can strive.

Verlander Jones is a native of Greensboro, Alabama and is a graduate of Greensboro High School.  She attended University of West earning a degree in elementary education and educational administration.  Mrs. Jones is a retired educator who worked 27 years in various roles as a teacher, assistant principal and district technology coordinator.  She is currently enjoying serving on the Hale County Board of Education.  She is committed to ensuring that all the students in the Hale County School System receive the education needed to prepare them for the real world. 

Chad Payne represents District 4 on the Hale County Board of Education. A proud Hale County native, Chad graduated from Hale County High School, Shelton State Community College, and the University of Alabama. He brings his expertise as a mechanical engineer, dedicated community member, and loving father to his role.

Chad also serves as Vice President of Oak Hill Cemetery in Moundville and is committed to serving the community with care and compassion. He enjoys spending quality time with his wife and daughters, who love horseback riding and the outdoors. Grateful to be part of the Hale County Board of Education, Chad is dedicated to advocating for students, families, and schools.

Ray Grantham has been a resident of Hale County for 24 years. He served as a volunteer firefighter at the Friendship Fire Department in Hale County and became an EMT in 2006. He advanced to become a Paramedic in 2008 and earned his FP-C (Flight Paramedic) certification in 2022.

Ray holds both an associate and a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health from Columbia Southern University. Since 2009, he has been an EMS instructor at the Alabama Fire College. Currently, he serves as a full-time EMS Training Specialist and Clinical Coordinator at the college.

Additionally, Ray has been the pastor of a local church in Hale County for 28 years. He is an active supporter of Hale County educators, coaches, and staff and has served as the president of the Hale County Athletics Booster Club for several years.

Ray is deeply committed to ensuring that all Hale County students have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed at every level of education.