Suzanne Lacey holds a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Auburn University, a Master’s of Science and Educational Specialist degrees in elementary education and school administration from the University of Montevallo, and a Doctorate in educational leadership from Samford University.

Suzanne has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, Elementary/Federal Programs Coordinator, Director of Personnel and Deputy Superintendent in Talladega County Schools prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2008.

Dr. Lacey holds membership with School Superintendents of Alabama (SSA) where she served as president during the 2015-2016 year and is past president of both the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) and the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS).  She is also a member of Leadership Alabama Class XX.

Dr. Lacey serves on the Board of Directors for HIPPY, Ritz Theatre, Easter Seals, and Sylacauga Alliance for Family Enhancement (SAFE).  Recently, she was selected to serve on the Advisory Council for the Alliance for Excellent Education and the League of Innovative Schools.  Included as 100 Outstanding Superintendents from across the nation, she was selected to attend President Obama’s ConnectEd Initiative in Washington, DC.  In 2016, Samford University recognized her with the “Learning for Life Award”.

Under Dr. Lacey’s leadership, Talladega County Schools has implemented a comprehensive plan to increase student engagement and to integrate technology to support learning.  Her goal of empowering both students and teachers to “own” their learning is a trademark throughout Talladega County Schools and well-known at both the state and national level. Schools throughout the district are recognized for their exemplary work by such organizations as the Alliance for Excellent Education, National Principals Leadership Institute, the Council for Leaders in Alabama’s Schools, and the U.S. Department of Education National Green Ribbon School Program.  In 2014, the district was the featured school system on National Digital Learning at a ceremony held at the Library of Congress. In 2015, the district was selected as a member of the League of Innovative Schools, a national organization, who recognizes districts across the country for innovation and technology.  Most recently, Talladega County Schools has embarked on an impressive journey with STEAM (Science, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) which includes labs and makerspaces all designed to prepare students for the increasing demand of STEM-related careers. All seventeen schools are currently working toward AdvancED STEM Certification.