MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) is pleased to announce its new director of public relations, who brings extensive experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, brand management, and public education advocacy to the staff.

Rebecca Thomas joins AASB with a proven track record of leading communications initiatives in Alabama schools, after establishing the communications office for Autauga County Schools. During her tenure in public education, she served as a key advisor to district leadership while leading internal and external communications efforts. Her leadership was instrumental in supporting strategic priorities and critical initiatives, such as a Superintendent search, school closure, and ad valorem referendum, all while strengthening community trust through clear, consistent, and proactive communication.

In her new role with AASB, Thomas will lead statewide public relations strategies, strengthen member communications, support advocacy efforts, and help amplify the voice of Alabama’s local boards of education through innovative storytelling and strategic outreach efforts.

The Alabama Association of School Boards serves as the statewide voice for local school boards, providing advocacy, leadership development, and services that support excellence in public education.

“Effective communication is essential to building trust and strengthening relationships between schools and communities,” said AASB Executive Director Sally Smith. “We are excited to welcome someone with such a strong background in this area, and look forward to the energy, creativity, and leadership she’ll bring to our organization and to school boards across Alabama.”

Prior to her work in public education, she served in a similar position at a K-12 private school in Central Alabama for several years, following several marketing and advertising roles in the financial services industry.

“Public education is at the heart of strong communities,” said Rebecca Thomas. “I am honored to join the Alabama Association of School Boards in supporting that mission. I look forward to working alongside school leaders across the state to celebrate achievements, strengthen partnerships, and help tell the story of the incredible work happening in Alabama schools.”