Alabama Code Title 45. Local Laws § 45-37A-50.06

A vacancy on the board of education shall be filled by appointment by a majority of the remaining members of the board of education for the unexpired term. If the vacancy is not filled by the remaining members of the board of education within 30 days, the chair, or the vice chair in the absence of the chair, shall notify the Birmingham City Council which shall fill the vacancy by appointment by a majority of the members of the city council for the unexpired term. If the vacancy is not filled by the city council within 30 days after notification, the local superintendent of education shall notify the State Superintendent of Education who shall fill the vacancy by appointment for the unexpired term. A person filling a vacancy on the board of education shall reside in the district which the vacating member represented. The provisions of Section 45-37A-50.05 apply only when one year or less remains in the unexpired term. Otherwise a special election shall be called as provided by state law.