MONTGOMERY, AL – Governor Kay Ivey announced Tuesday her appointment of Ami Brooks as the new secretary of the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education. Brooks will assume the role on June 16, 2025, following the departure of current acting secretary Jan Hume, who is stepping down after nearly 14 years with the Department.
Hume, who has led the Department as acting secretary for the past two years, will join Auburn University—her and the governor’s alma mater—as a Professor of Practice in Public Administration. Governor Ivey praised Hume for her dedication and contributions, citing her leadership in programs such as the Alabama First Class Pre-K program and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
“People like Jan and Ami are why Alabama has led the nation in early childhood education for 19 consecutive years,” said Governor Ivey. “I am grateful to Jan for her service and know Auburn will benefit from her expertise. I am equally excited to promote Ami to lead the Department of Early Childhood Education.”
Brooks currently serves as director for the P-3 Partnership at the Department, where she oversees implementation of Governor Ivey’s Strong Start, Strong Finish education initiative. With nearly two decades of classroom experience and a history of leadership within the Department, Brooks has played a central role in enhancing early learning outcomes across the state.
Brooks’ accomplishments include managing the implementation of a statewide assessment tool and leading revisions to the Kindergarten Entry Assessment. She also served as one of Alabama’s first coach facilitators and was recognized in 2017 as a finalist for Alabama Teacher of the Year.
“It’s an incredible honor to be appointed by Governor Ivey,” Brooks said. “Young children have always been my joy, and I’m thrilled to continue contributing to the mission of giving every child a strong start.”
Hume will remain through the summer to support a smooth transition.
