January 2024 Student Spotlights – Montgomery

Here at Montgomery Catholic, we serve the community around us far and wide in many ways year-round. During the Christmas season, however, is when our students love to serve the most! Here are a few of the ways our students actively participate in giving to those around them!
Our Key Club members were joined by the Lieutenant Governor of District 11 for the state of Alabama, Raina Valliani, to stuff nearly 30 stockings full of candy, hot cocoa, gift cards, and more for the Brantwood Children’s Home. The stockings will be donated to Brantwood to distribute. This fundraiser was a wonderful joy and an incredible way to give back to the community.
Our High School House Leadership went on a team shopping trip to gather presents for the students we serve at Father Purcell Memorial Children’s Center every Wednesday. They divided into teams, were given a list of what the students wanted, and had to manage their time and money to provide for these students during the Christmas season. These gifts touch the students’ hearts deeper than we ever imagined, and will be delivered to these students during our annual Christmas party we throw for them!
All four of our campuses participated in the annual Box of Joy fundraiser organized by Cross Catholic Outreach this year as well. This annual fundraiser is a beautiful effort to provide Christmas gifts for the children we visit during our mission trip to Honduras. This year we collected over 250 boxes that will be sure to put a smile on the children’s faces.

At Montgomery Catholic, we are always working towards a goal, a higher point, an elevated status, a standard. We have always set the standard in our academics and our service to the greater community, and we are proud to add athletics to that growing list of accomplishments. This year, the MCPS football, volleyball, and flag football teams celebrated first-ever historical seasons.
The Montgomery Catholic Football team won the Super Seven Class 4A State Championship for the first time in program history on Friday, December 8. They defeated the Cherokee County Warriors 35-0 to capture this year’s championship. Coach Kirk Johnson instilled strong character, leadership, and grit in his players throughout the season.
The Montgomery Catholic Volleyball team won back-to-back Class 4A State Championships on November 2, also a program first. They defeated UMS-Wright Prep in a clean sweep to secure this year’s title. In just her first year, Coach Jenn Denham was able to bring these state champs back to center stage and complete a repeat.
Finally, in just their second year as a program, the Montgomery Catholic Flag Football team went to the Class 1A-5A State Championship and finished as runner-up on Wednesday, December 6. In only our second year, Coach Whitney Toole and her players put in months of hard work and dedication, and made it to the Finals.
This is only the beginning of what these programs will do. We are proud to Be The Standard.

Students in Mrs. McLemore’s AP Environmental Science class at The Montgomery Academy recently completed a soils lab where they determined the soil types for samples brought from home. They also measured the pH, nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus contained in their samples. Soil type and nutrient amounts help farmers and gardeners determine the health of their soil.

Dr. Morris’s Economics class at The Montgomery Academy visited Tucker Pecan Company to understand the business model used for a privately owned business. They discussed entrepreneurship, supply and demand, product differentiation, and customer service. There is a lot of work behind the scenes to keep the shelves stocked and our students got a first-hand look at it all. Thank you to David Little for hosting and sharing knowledge of the rewards and challenges of real-world business!

Two Montgomery Academy teams recently competed at Youth Judicial. John Alford, Lulu Espy, Will Hardin, Ellery Link, Mere Morrison, and Ethan Yi’s team placed sixth in the statewide competition. Their team won the Justice Hugh Maddox Award, presented to the “2023 Best Overall Team” for “superior performance in all aspects” of the competition and will go on to compete at the National Judicial Competition in St. Paul, MN next summer. John Alford received a top ten attorney award and Will Hardin received a top ten witness award.
Anna Brown, Emily-Kathryn Casey, Frances Fitzpatrick, Virginia Haugabook, Sailor Vance and Maggie Whitt also participated as a team in the competition. Virginia Haugabook received a top ten attorney award. Sarah Kate Ingram and Killian White served as judges at Youth Judicial, and were assisted by bailiffs An Wilkes Cavanaugh and Sophia Cho.

The Forest Avenue Chorus treated the students to a Christmas Concert today. Twelve Forest Avenue Faculty Members helped by performing in the “Twelve Days of Christmas”.

Forest Avenue’s December PBIS Caught Being Good winners:
Aiden Kim, Preston Williams, Lakyn Lassic, Marsha Kouaho, and Zion Nguyen (not pictured)

Two Macon East student-athletes were honored to participate in the 2023 AISA All-Star Football game held November 30 at Cramton Bowl. Barrett Spaeth represented Macon East for the East team. Kaiden Byrom cheered the East team on from the sidelines as part of the all-star cheerleading squad. She was an All-Star scholarship recipient receiving a $500 scholarship in recognition of her hard work and leadership on and off the field.

Ivy Ashworth’s Upper School Astronomy class at The Montgomery Academy took a late night field trip away from the bright Montgomery lights and out to Cecil, AL for a picture perfect viewing of the December night sky. There, they were led by Pike Road astrophotographer Russ McKinney and his incredible sky watching equipment, taking in views of Jupiter, Saturn, craters of the moon, a number of constellations, and nebulas. Thank you to Mr. McKinney for lending his expertise to our students!

Macon East Academy student Kelsey Smith attended the Alfa Youth Leadership Conference November 13-14 at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana. The conference teaches students how to advocate for agriculture, identify their potential and step into leadership roles. The event is for 9th and 10th graders. Sponsors are Alabama Farmers Federation, Elmore County Farmers Federation, Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit. She is pictured with Alabama Farmers Federation’s Matthew Durdin.

Each December brings an annual Montgomery Academy Kindergarten tradition to the calendar: a field trip to the Christmas tree farm to select a perfect tree for their classrooms! Congratulations to our littlest Eagles on finding the perfect trees for holiday decorating and thank you to our friends at Wadsworth Tree Farm for hosting us!

In a recent assembly, the vibrant city of Montgomery took center stage as community leaders gathered to share their love for the city and discuss its unique charm. Moderated by Todd Strange, the assembly featured a distinguished panel comprising John Ed Mathison, Ken Austin, and Jay Wolf. The panelists passionately articulated why they cherish Montgomery and highlighted the city’s special attributes. From its rich history to its welcoming community, each speaker shed light on what makes Montgomery a truly unique place.
Adding an interactive touch, students from the Alabama Christian Academy (ACA) actively participated by submitting thought-provoking questions for the panelists. This engagement not only facilitated a dynamic conversation but also allowed the students to gain insights into the perspectives of these influential figures.
As the assembly reached its conclusion, the panelists left a lasting impression by challenging ACA students. They encouraged the students to introspect and explore how they could contribute to the betterment of Montgomery. The call to action was clear – to seek opportunities for service within the city and become active participants in shaping its future.
This assembly served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community engagement and encouraged residents, especially the younger generation, to take an active role in fostering positive change. By instilling a sense of responsibility and pride in their city, events like these contribute to the ongoing narrative of Montgomery as a place where unity and service go hand in hand.

Ms. DeHart’s trained support animal, Wotan (pronounced VOH tahn), visited River Region Academy students recently. He had a positive, calming effect on our students and staff. He and our students enjoyed their time together.

Theology class is taught every day in grades K3-12 and is considered one of our core subjects. For Catholic students, we offer sacramental preparation in 2nd grade for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion. December is extra special for our 2nd graders at both Holy Spirit and St. Bede Campuses as they received their First Reconciliation. This important spiritual step is furthering their faith as they prepare to receive their First Holy Communion next spring.

A beautiful dog named Cat was a recent visitor to River Region Academy! Cat has already helped increase positivity and decrease anxiety and stress among students. Welcome to River Region Academy, Cat!

River Region Academy primary students In Mrs. Bonner’s class read Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me by Eric Carle, and learned about the phases of the moon. To complete this moon activity, students used Oreo cookies and removed some frosting on each one to show the different phases, such as waxing gibbous, waning crescent, and new moon. Then they ate the evidence!

Garrett Elementary dancers performed to Christmas pieces at their winter Christmas program. The girls dance once a week with Tonya Speed Dance Connection doing ballet, jazz and tap. Great job, dancers!

The Montgomery Catholic junior class received their class rings on Wednesday, December 13, 2023. This ceremony is meant to symbolize the class’s dedication to living the school’s mission of forming students of faith, virtue, and wisdom, and reminds our students to live out this mission in their daily lives.

On Thursday, November 16, the Saint James Arts Department held its first-ever Arts Showcase. The event featured performances by the STJ Jazz Band, Elementary Choir, Middle School Choir, High School Choir, and many talented students who performed various acts.
Guests also enjoyed watercolor and printmaking stations where they created one of a kind artwork led by our STJ Visual Arts teachers and students.
The evening of fun was a great way to highlight the many arts programs Saint James School offers in all grades and the accomplishments of the students in all areas of visual and performing arts.

Saint James School is proud to be the only school in Alabama to host middle school and high school equestrian teams. Both teams are having an excellent season as they have competed in two weekend shows.
During September, the high school team was awarded Reserve Champion at the show hosted by Jackson Academy in Madison, Mississippi. Josephine Foshee rode away with a first and second in over fences. Anne Kingsley Shaul helped secure the high school reserve champion with her first in over fences. Elley Goff had a great show with a first place in over fences and second place on the flat on day two of competition.
The teams also competed during the weekend of November 18-19, 2023 at the Authentic Show held in Huntsville. The Trojans won the high school team championship both days of showing. This is a record for the STJ team! Callie Barnett won first place in her flat classes both days. Her sister, Ellen Barnett won first place in over fences and on the flat for Saturday’s show to secure the champion ribbon on day one of competition. On Sunday, Alex Clenney helped secure the champion ribbon with her third place in over fences while teammate, Ava Donaldson came in fourth. Elley Goff sealed the deal with her first place in over fences and second on the flat.
The Saint James high school team has already qualified to advance to regional competition while the middle school team is only 2 points away from qualifying. This would be a first if both teams advance in competition.
In order for a team to advance to regional competition, the team must earn 20 points. The regional competition will be Chelsea, Alabama at the Northeast Alabama Ag Center on February 3, 2024 with those who receive a first or second place advance to Zone competition on March 17, 2024 at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Tryon, North Carolina.

Saint James School centers its focus and mission around educating the whole child. Whether the child finds his/her talents to be in academics, arts, or athletics, Saint James encourages and fosters those talents throughout the student’s years at Saint James. As a college preparatory school, Saint James offers academics which allow students to achieve their highest potential and go on to any number of institutions of higher learning both in state and out of state.
The Fall Recognition Ceremony held each year celebrates the nationally recognized academic achievements of its high school students. These achievements include National Merit Semifinalists and Commended Students, AP Scholars, Global Seal of Biliteracy, as well as perfect scores on AP and ACT/SAT testing. These achievements show just what can be accomplished with the tools and education provided during the Saint James experience.
This year’s group honored at the Fall Recognition Ceremony are a group of students who have used a combination of their talents and the education provided at Saint James to do great things.
As the ceremony commenced on Wednesday, November 15, Academic Dean Susan Atkins congratulated Will Alexander from the Class of 2024 who has been named as a National Merit Semifinalist.
Also recognized at the ceremony were AP Scholars. Saint James students in this category total 35, but this includes 25 students who were a part of the Class of 2023. Current students include Luke Berry, Alex Clenney, Logan Hartson, Brea Ledford, Mia Moran, Rylee Richardson, Elaine Vo, and Cora Wojak. Cole Williams received the designation of AP Scholar with Honors. In addition, Will Alexander and Will Gulsby were awarded the designation of AP Scholar with Distinction.
The Fall Recognition Ceremony further recognized students who scored a 5 on the AP exams associated with AP classes taken at Saint James. Saint James offers a variety of Advanced Placement classes in most disciplines. Students currently at Saint James who were recognized for making a perfect score on the May 2023 AP exams are the following. Wendy Stombaugh made a perfect score of 5 in 2D Art and Design. For both AB Calculus and AP Chemistry, Will Alexander scored a perfect 5. For AP US History, Will Alexander, Will Gulsby, Logan Hartson, and Rain Johnson scored a 5. In AP World History, Jack Caradori and Haley Hust scored a perfect 5. In AP Language and Composition, perfect scores were achieved by Will Gulsby, Rain Johnson, and Madison Walton.
Students who earned perfect scores on ACT or SAT sections were also lauded. Students who achieved the goal of scoring a 36 on one or more sections of the ACT to date in 2023 are Will Alexander, Harrison Allen, Alex Clenney, Will Gulsby, and Woochan Kim. Students who scored a perfect 800 in the Math section of the SAT are Woochan Kim and Jacob Shin.
Further, a special recognition was given to Brea Ledford, Rylee Richardson, and Cora Wojak who earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy in English and Spanish. Two additional students from the class of 2023 received this honor for a total of five recipients.

On Tuesday, November 28, four students from Saint James School participated in the VA Clinic’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This event was held at 11:00 a.m. at the Central Alabama Montgomery VA Clinic on Chantilly Parkway.
During the event, ninth graders Abigail Roark and Hilma Seeman performed “Silent Night” (in two languages) and fifth graders Amelia Rasmussen and Sam Snyder presented the pictures, cards, and notes that the Saint James elementary students created on Community Day, thanking veterans for their service. The pictures, notes, and cards will be distributed among men and women who are currently patients at the local VA Hospitals and Clinics.
The students’ participation in such a special event that recognizes men and women in uniform reinforces the Saint James focus on service to the community.

Saint James School is honored to have more than 90 military families, representing both the United States and our international allies, as part of its school family this year. On Thursday, November 9, Saint James held a Veterans Day Assembly in the school’s gymnasium.
This assembly for grades 1-12 featured performances by the Saint James Combined Choirs and Marching Band, including soloists Austin Oh and Rylee Hoeft. The assembly speaker was Major General Parker Wright of the U.S. Air Force. General Wright currently serves as Commander for the Curtis E. LeMay Center for Doctrine Development and Education, as well as Deputy Commander of Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base. In his remarks, he focused on the values held by all service men and women and their families. He also found examples of Character, Commitment, Courage, and Community within the military families currently at Saint James School.
His speech was followed by a dramatic recitation of Herbert Lee Wadkins’s poem “Come Fly with Me” by Mrs. Norma Jo Roberts. The assembly concluded with a prayer by SGA President, Gracie Sommer and remarks by head of school, Dr. Larry McLemore.
Saint James School is proud to have such a robust number of military families as a part of its school family.

Congratulations to Forest Avenue 4th graders Clara Kim, Eunchan Kwak, and Daeun Hwang on winning the Montgomery Art Center’s Holiday Greeting Card Contest. There were over 500 entires! We are so proud of these three!

Forest Avenue 5th grader, Luke Lee, won Honorable Mention in the 2023 PALS Poster Contest and received his award at the Governor’s Luncheon recently. PALS also featured Mrs. Hale’s 4th grade classes doing a campus clean up last April at the luncheon. Congratulations to Luke!

The fourth and fifth graders at Montgomery Christian School watched history come alive on their field trip to Fort Toulouse, one of the largest and most authentic living history events in Alabama. MCS fourth and fifth graders were excited to explore the well-preserved site, that showed how the south transitioned for the Creek Indian lands to military forts and civilian homesteads. MCS fourth and fifth graders were able to see engaging historical reenactments and get a small glimpse of what life was like in the in the early 18th and 19th centuries.

The Forest Avenue Chorus had a wonderful time singing at the Montgomery Zoo’s Tree Lighting Ceremony. You can see them sing again on the 18th at the Governor’s Mansion! See you there!

Forest Avenue 4th grader Gabriel Carbajal performed in the Montgomery Music Project’s Christmas Concert as the First Violin.

Participating in Student Government Association (SGA) helps students develop valuable skills that will help them at school, and in life; those skills include leadership, time management, organizational and planning; as well as understanding how to make various points of views and advocate for others while being a team-player. SGA represents the best interests of a school’s student body and helps shape students ‘experience on campus. The students at TEA Christian Academy, Inc. are all enrolled in leadership and enrichment classes to help sharpen their leadership skills. The SGA is a group of students that are charged with managing a wide range of events, activities, programs, policies, and initiatives on school campuses; such as organizing student activities, dances, spirit weeks, community service, fundraising and assemblies. Some members are elected by the student body, and others have been appointed by the elected officials to help with specific tasks or areas of interest.
TEA Academy’s SGA will take on a wide range of responsibilities, centered around the school and its needs. These efforts will be led by President Jamari Davis, a senior and honor student, along with elected SGA leaders John Cruz, III, Cydnee Dixon, Vice-President; Savian Ross, Kevis Harriel, Janiya Pelts, John Cruz, and Zytrell Bowan. The installation of the students took place on November 1, 2023, on the campus of TEA Academy, a delicious spaghetti luncheon was prepared by the staff. TEA Academy, Inc. takes pride in continuing to “Take an Extra Step Towards Educational Excellence”.

Montgomery Christian School’s Kindergarten classes had an unforgettable field trip to the Wadsworth Christmas Tree Farm in Wetumpka, Alabama. MCS Kindergarteners were able to learn about the many different types of trees that the farmers grow on site each year. The highlight of the day was when the MCS Kindergarteners and family members took an exciting tractor ride through the Christmas tree farm that allowed them to see the farm’s many attractions.

Montgomery Christian School’s third grade students went on an educational adventure at the Tuskegee Airmen Museum, and they were up close and personal with vintage aircraft, uniforms, and photographs that brought the historical narrative to life. MCS third graders also engaged with interactive exhibits that celebrated the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and saw artifacts that depicted the accomplishments of African American aviators during World War II.

TEA is like most schools there is always a series of stories to reflect on, the positives as well as the stories that shape the culture of the school community,
while making a difference in the lives of students; and giving parents Peace of Mind. TEA Academy’s measurable outcome with students’ performance is the overall focus, our mission and our passion to assisting our students in rising to the occasion of being a successful student. We thrive on positive formative and summative teaching which yield to influence learning in a
positive and caring environment. TEA Academy felt compelled to hiring an Interventionists Coordinator to assist ALL students with Math and Reading skills; understanding that COVID-19 played a role in some students having difficulty. In spite of most of our students having done exceptionally well; we had a 20-percent increase in our enrollment, and we wanted to make sure ALL students continue to excel.
TEA Academy will continue to make decisions centered around curriculum, instruction, and assessment. The context also impacts the way a school stays faithful to its vision. Many factors contribute to the overall narrative from our stakeholders, a description of stakeholder
engagement, the trends and issues affecting the school, and the kinds of programs and services
that is implemented to support students’ learning.
TEA Christian Academy, Inc. held its year-end assessment, which allowed the opportunity to conduct an assessment with not only the teachers; but the parents and Board Members as well. The results will help make predictions and future academic decisions for all students. Students’ benchmark testing, quizzes, and report cards will be compared and analyzed from the beginning to end of the school year-allowing an overall understanding as to where students stand (below grade level, on grade level, or above grade level). TEA is constantly on a mission researching, meeting and conducting their school and teachers’ formative assessments in an effort to continuing “Taking an Extra Step Towards Educational Excellence”, because our students matter!

Understanding the process of planting is a very important process, when it comes to successful home gardening one must carefully plan and constantly pay attention. Beginning with selecting the right site carefully, planting at the appropriate time, and using the right amount of fertilizer, and pest control-as well as understanding high nutrient levels in plant tissue and or sap for many plant-feeding pests. TEA Christian Academy Science Club students have spent time learning the processing steps; understanding the parts tissue or sap and the plants, photosynthesis, weather conditions, soil composition, and so much more. TEA Academy has partnered with the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, and the students are so excited, and are eager to learn and they are applying what has been taught. Mr. Roosevelt Robinson (Urban Regional Extension Agent) has been leading the way and directing us with setting up raised flower beds, and establishing the irrigation system, as well as testing the soil. Mr. Robinson is a great role model for students; and he has the tool to direct students that are interested in pursuing a career in science medicine, natural resources development, landscaping to name a few career fields. Our students have learned the importance of selecting the right type of plants suitable for Alabama’s weather and soil. We are planting flower bulbs that will bloom in the upcoming spring, fruit trees; vegetables and herbs that will be used to cook a healthy meal.
Yesss! We let our students get their hands dirty so they can enjoy the fruits of their labor.
We will share more details and photos in the upcoming articles. Submitted by
Mrs. V. Warren, Science Instructor.

Macon East Academy’s Lower School collected donations for the Wounded Warrior Project with a penny war competition between grades. Students brought in money to help their grade win the competition. Pennies and paper money earned positive points for their grade, while silver coins could be used to subtract points from other grades. After careful calculation and much anticipation, Fifth Grade had the highest number of points, winning the penny war! The Lower School raised a total of $1313.71 to donate to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Macon East Academy students recently participated in the AISA Spelling Bee. Jace Kendrick (4th), Lane Wallace (5th), Halyn Wren (6th), Bella Ann Spires (7th), and Eli Churchwell (8th) represented their respective grades. Eli Churchwell placed second among the eighth-grade spellers. Lane Wallace placed first for fifth grade and represented Macon East at the state spelling bee. Alternates who attended in support of their classmates were: SJ Jemison (4th), Glen Browder (5th), Bentley Faulk (6th), Conner Wallace (7th), and Hadley Sirmon (8th).

Kennedy Softley, a student at Evangel Christian Academy, recently competed at a state gymnastics competition. Gymnasts from all over the state attended the competition. The event was held at the Multiplex in Montgomery, Alabama. Miss Softley competed in several events which included Vault, Floor, Beam, and Bar exercises. She won several awards which included first place in Vault, first place in Floor, first place in Bar and third place in Beam. She also won the distinguished honor of being the Level 5 All-around Champion for her age group. ECA teachers Mrs. May and Mrs. Dorsey, attended the event and were excited to witness Kennedy’s outstanding performance.

Macon East Academy Senior, Gunner Justice, recently signed his letter of intent to continue his academic and baseball career with Coastal Alabama Community College (South) in Bay Minette to play for the Coyotes and new coach J.D. Pruitt. As a three-year starter at shortstop for the Knights, Justice has showcased incredible leadership and athletic ability that sets him apart from his peers. Justice’s decision to join Coastal is a testament to his dedication and passion for both academics and baseball. His exceptional skills on the field, combined with his strong work ethic, make him an invaluable asset to any team. As Justice embarks on this new chapter in his academic and athletic journey, it is clear that he possesses the qualities necessary for continued excellence. Coastal is fortunate to have secured such a talented and driven individual like Macon East Academy’s Gunner Justice as part of their team.

In a heartwarming initiative, the ACA WeServe program has teamed up with the tight-knit community of Timbers to bring joy to widows and widowers during this holiday season. Basketfuls of goodies, carefully curated to brighten spirits, were delivered to their doorsteps by dedicated upper school students and their supportive parents.
This thoughtful endeavor goes beyond just material gifts, embodying the true spirit of community and compassion. The ACA WeServe program has not only provided tangible support but also fostered meaningful connections between generations, creating a sense of unity and shared goodwill in the Timbers neighborhood.
As the festive season unfolds, the impact of this outreach becomes evident in the smiles and gratitude exchanged between the givers and receivers. The ACA WeServe program’s commitment to service and empathy shines brightly, making the holidays a little warmer for those who may be experiencing the bittersweet tinge of loss.
This collaborative effort between students, parents, and the ACA WeServe program exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives, proving that small acts of kindness can have a profound effect on the well-being of individuals and the cohesion of neighborhoods.

In a spirited class competition at ACA, seniors triumphed in the 9-12th grade category, while the golden eagles soared to victory in the middle school division. Halls transformed into enchanting winter wonderlands and delightful gingerbread houses, creating a festive atmosphere that resonated throughout the school. The competition showcased the creativity and holiday spirit of ACA’s students, making it a memorable and joyful experience for all.

In a heartwarming display of compassion and community spirit, ACA Lower School recently embarked on a charitable initiative to sponsor two young girls from Agape. Each student contributed a minimum of $2, fostering a sense of unity and philanthropy within the school.The initiative not only aimed at providing financial support to those in need but also allowed students to actively participate in the act of giving. Every student who donated was rewarded with the opportunity to showcase their creativity by decorating a unique ornament for the beautifully adorned tree in the Lower School lobby.
This dual-purpose project not only instilled the values of empathy and generosity but also transformed the school into a festive hub of goodwill. The decorated ornaments serve as a visual representation of the collective efforts of ACA Lower School students coming together to make a positive impact beyond their immediate community.
As the holiday season unfolds, the adorned tree stands as a symbol of the school’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. The act of sponsoring these two young girls from Agape not only touches the hearts of those directly involved but radiates a ripple effect throughout the school, inspiring future acts of kindness and benevolence.
ACA Lower School’s sponsorship initiative serves as a shining example of how educational institutions can play a pivotal role in shaping compassionate, socially responsible individuals. By seamlessly blending philanthropy with creativity, the school has successfully created an atmosphere where students learn the joy of giving while also nurturing their artistic talents.
In the end, the ACA Lower School community can take pride in knowing that their collective efforts have not only brightened the lives of the sponsored girls from Agape but have also sown the seeds of empathy and generosity in the hearts of the future leaders and contributors to society.

Trinity School’s SGA presented a $2,000 check to the Joy to Life Foundation. K3 – 12th grade students donated their change in the month of October for their weekly Change 4 Change service project.

Trinity School’s Fine Arts Department presented ‘Twas the Night, a Christmas evening filled with talent and joy. From graceful dancers to the harmonious show choir, soul-stirring melodies from the band, and breathtaking artistry, the students enchanted the hearts and reminded the audience the true reason for the season.

Dalraida Elementary Schools PPA President Mrs. Lisa Christain was awarded the Vance Law Firm/WAKA Pay It Forward Award, and we are so proud of her! She is deserving of this award!

Trinity School alumnus, Major Kyle Shaw, came back to lead the lower school in STEM lessons. Major Shaw taught the students about the US Space Force and its importance to our lives. The students got to power rockets, build card towers, and engineer heat shields!

Trinity School’s Algebra classes played Cartesian Coordinate System Twister to incorporate kinesthetic learning with math concepts on linear equations. They used metal math to play this fun math game!

Unleashing the magic of the Christmas season with the cutest stars. The Trinity School kindergarten class presented the Christmas story.

On the final day of school before the holiday break, TEA’s performing arts students put their talents into practice. Their performance in the musical, The Greatest Gift, showcased their musical, acting, and dance skills. Singing classic Christmas carols, accompanied by choreographed dancing, biblical verses, as well as holiday decor, set the tone for the theatrical debut organized by Performing Arts teacher, Mrs. Bonnie Robinson.
Great performance by the students and definitely a great way to end the first semester of the 2023-2024 school term. May the peace of God be with you all during this holiday season and beyond. Happy Holidays!

It’s not all the time that students get the opportunity to attend a play in a theater. TEA Academy students were afforded this opportunity on November 14th to attend the play, “The Wiz”, on ASU campus at the Tullibody Fine Arts Building. Many of the students were performing arts students, and they saw firsthand all they had learned about the theater. They were amazed at how disciplined and how energetic the cast members were.
Some students were not familiar with the play at all, so they were extremely excited to see the play. ASU’s Theater Department students were simply amazing! At TEA Academy, our goal is to expose students to different aspects of life-changing avenues that showcase the evolution of technology. Montgomery has a wealth of cultural sites that will serve as future field trip opportunities for TEA Christian Academy students.