Dr. Fred Abernathy has over 25 years of education as a special educator, coach, administrator, adjunct professor, and director. His education background consists of the following (1998)- Associate in Arts Pre-Secondary Education from Northwest- Shoals Community College (2000)- BS. Ed. in Collaborative Education ( K-6) Athens State University, (2002)- M. Ed in Collaborative Education ( 6-12) from Alabama A&M University, (2007) Ed.S in Collaborative Education ( 6-12) from Alabama A&M University, (2012) Ed. D in Executive Leadership from Lincoln Memorial University, and (2014) M.Ed in Instructional Leadership from University of West Alabama.
He is a graduate of the 2022-2203 CIL (Certified Instructional Program for Leaders) cohort through CLAS Leaders. In addition, he is a graduate of the 2024-2025 Alabama Superintendent Academy which is a highly selective, advanced development program for talented, innovative from across Alabama. Lastly, he is a graduate of the 2024- 2025 inaugural CASE SELI (Council of Administrators of Special Education Special Education Learning Institute) which is a national program for leaders across the country. The Special Education Leadership Institute (SELI) is a hybrid instructional model, including both in-person and virtual professional learning throughout the year. Each session is based on the Special Education Administrator Leadership Standards.
Dr. Abernathy's career highlights decades of service, local leadership, state leadership, and national leadership. He is a strong advocate for all students learning, special education advocacy, and mentoring future educators. His work reflects on inclusion, equity, continuous professional learning, and fostering supportive environments for both students and educators.
He enjoys spending time with his family, running, working out, movies, and reading interesting educational books.