Hoover City Schools is pleased to announce Andrea Fordham as the new principal of R.F. Bumpus Middle School. A proud graduate of Hoover City Schools, Fordham brings more than 20 years of experience in education and is thrilled to return to the district that helped shape her as a student and an educator.

She is currently the Assistant Principal at Pelham Park Middle School, where she has led schoolwide initiatives focused on academic achievement and teacher development. Prior to her work in administration, she taught at Thompson Middle School and served as Athletic Director, making an impact in the classroom and through student activities. 

“I am honored to join Bumpus Middle School and serve alongside the amazing students, staff, and families,” Fordham said. “As a Hoover graduate, I have unique ties to the community, and it is such a special place. I’m so excited to be a Hoover Buccaneer again! This is truly a full-circle moment for me. GO BUCS!”

Throughout her career, she has contributed to strategic planning, school accreditation, master scheduling, and a wide range of student support initiatives. Her leadership experience includes serving as a 504 coordinator, truancy officer, and active member of school advisory committees, demonstrating her commitment to ensuring all students have the tools and support they need to succeed.

Her work goes beyond the school building as she is an active member of the Principal Leadership and Mentoring Act (PLMA) Design Team. This statewide group is tasked with developing Alabama’s Principal Leadership Development System. The team focuses on leadership standards, mentoring programs, a statewide academy, and professional learning and evaluation systems for school leaders.

Fordham’s educational contributions have been recognized through several honors, including being named Alabaster City Schools’ Secondary Teacher of the Year and a Shelby County Educator of the Year nominee.

“As a Hoover City Schools graduate, she brings not only a wealth of experience but also a deep personal connection to our community,” said HCS Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maddox. “She understands the values that make this district special and is passionate about supporting students and teachers. We are excited to welcome her home.”

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from Auburn University and holds a master’s and an educational specialist degree in instructional leadership from the University of West Alabama. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in educational leadership from the University of the Cumberlands.

Fordham will step into the role July 1 following the retirement of Donna Burke, who has dedicated 34 years to Hoover City Schools.

Please join us in welcoming Andrea Fordham to the Bumpus Middle School family.