June 2025 Student Spotlights – Montgomery

Bear Exploration Center received a generous grant from Mid-South RC&D Council which contributed to tables and seating in the outdoor classroom. This support helps Bear create engaging learning spaces for their students.

As part of their study of Alabama History, our fourth graders recently participated in Creek Week, a weeklong study of the lives and activities of the Muscogee people who are indigenous to Alabama. Students learned how the Creek people relied on each other and functioned as a community. Creek Week is a signature part of the fourth-grade experience!

Alabama Christian Academy (ACA) proudly recognizes seniors Chloe Jordan and Tyson Summers for their exceptional contributions to the school community, awarding them the prestigious Citizenship Award. This honor celebrates students who exemplify outstanding character, leadership, and service.
Chloe Jordan has distinguished herself as a dedicated student-athlete, serving as a defender on ACA’s varsity girls’ soccer team. Her commitment to teamwork and sportsmanship reflects her broader dedication to the school community. Beyond athletics, Chloe is known for her academic excellence and active participation in various school initiatives, consistently demonstrating integrity and a willingness to support her peers.
Tyson Summers has made significant contributions as a key player on both the varsity football and soccer teams at ACA. His athletic achievements are matched by his commitment to community involvement and leadership within the school. Tyson’s positive attitude and dedication to service have made him a role model among his classmates.
The Citizenship Award is a testament to Chloe and Tyson’s unwavering dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive environment at Alabama Christian Academy. Their exemplary conduct and service set a high standard for their peers and leave a lasting impact on the school community.

Saint James middle and high school artists who were recognized at the AISA District 5 Art Competition, held in April. Saint James School had 33 students compete at the district level, with 20 earning awards across a variety of categories.
In the middle school division, first-place winners will advance to the AISA State Art Competition. In the High School Division, both first and second place winners will move on to the state level.
We are proud to celebrate the creativity and achievement of these student artists:
Middle School Division Winners
• 1st Place – Non-Color Drawing: Violet Park
• 1st Place – Water-Based Painting: Hailey Shelton
• 1st Place – Mixed Media: Wafik Turki
• 2nd Place – Mixed Media: Hedda Stoerdal
• 2nd Place – Printmaking: Sophia Kim
• 2nd Place – Collage: Tristan Bentley
• 2nd Place – 3-D: Sam Bentley
• 2nd Place – Non-Color Drawing: Joy Seo
• 3rd Place – Painting: Minseo Song
• 3rd Place – Photography: Hazel Clinton
• 3rd Place – Water-Based Painting: Anna Rabon
High School Division Winners
• 1st Place – Printmaking: Davie Hipp
• 1st Place – Non-Color Drawing: Izzy Pappas
• 1st Place – Color Drawing: Alice Chen
• 1st Place – Photography: Erin Richardson
• 2nd Place – Water-Based Painting: Davie Hipp
• 2nd Place – Photography: Brenna Gregory
• 3rd Place – Printmaking: Yuha Shin
• 3rd Place – Painting: Mae Puckett
• 3rd Place – Mixed Media: Mae Puckett
We applaud these students for their dedication and artistic excellence and wish our advancing competitors the best of luck at the upcoming state competition.

Montgomery Academy’s Upper School Chorus competed in the Heritage National Choral Competition in New York City last week. The competition included choral ensembles from Minnesota, Massachusetts, New York, California, Texas, Florida, and even France. MA’s US Chorus earned First Place in Concert Choir Division (1A), and the Chamber Chorus earned Second Place in the Chamber Choir Division (1A).

Inside TEA Christian Academy’s Luncheon of Love and the Transformative Power of the Arts, TEA students are learn that their words matter, that creativity is a strength, and that self-expression is a bridge to understanding. In the words of James Baldwin: “The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came in.”
At TEA Academy, we are helping our students shape that world, thoughtfully, bravely, and beautifully. As part of their English curriculum, students were tasked with two assignments: writing a Mother’s Day essay and composing an original poem. What emerged were not only beautifully crafted words, but deep personal reflections that showed the emotional intelligence and literary promise our students carried.
During the luncheon, those poems were presented by the students. With voices clear and full of feeling, students honored the women raising them with strength and grace. Special congratulations to Nicalai Cleveland, whose essay traced the origins and evolution of Mother’s Day with precision and heart. Cleveland’s work stood as a shining example of academic research fused with personal insight. Dr. Maggie McElroy-Washington, the principal, reminds students and staff daily that excellence is not optional—it is expected. Great Job, Eagles! Written by Jimmie Ware

Montgomery Catholic is proud to announce Courtney Ward as the Girl’s Varsity Basketball Coach. “Coach Ward is an excellent addition to the Montgomery Catholic family. She brings incredible experience and a true winning spirit to an established program that is ready to continue the quest for championship quality play and even higher level of character,” says School President, Justin Castanza.
Coach Ward is a Montgomery, Alabama native was a standout point guard at Jeff Davis during her High School career. She led her team to a 6A State Championship and earned numerous accolades, including Alabama Miss Basketball nominee, All-State Super 5, and All-Metro Player of the Year.
At Florida State University, she was a four year starting point guard and left her mark as the All-Time Assist Leader, 3-Point Field Goal Leader, and one of the program’s Top 25 All-Time Scorers. Her leadership helped guide the Seminoles to multiple NCAA tournament runs, including Sweet 16 and Elite 8 appearances.
After college, she joined the WNBA’s Seattle Storm training camp and played professionally in Italy before transitioning to public service as a Police Officer and later a Deputy Sheriff in Montgomery County. In 2016, she was honored as an ACC Women’s Basketball Legend.
Courtney made history as one of the first women to coach boys’ varsity basketball in Alabama, leading programs at Sidney Lanier, Pike Road, and Park Crossing High School, where she consistently built winning teams and inspired student-athletes.
She is also the founder of CWARD Basketball Camps, a youth-focused training program rooted in discipline, leadership, and skill development. Known for her integrity, resilience, and commitment to community, Courtney Ward continues to mentor, lead, and empower the next generation through sport and service.
Athletic Director Daniel Veres said, “We are super excited to welcome Coach Ward and her family into our MCPS family. Her resume speaks for itself, and I can’t wait to see the heights she will take our program.”

Alabama Christian Academy is proud to announce the inaugural group of inductees into the newly established Gilliam-Black Society. This prestigious honor has been created to recognize Senior students who have distinguished themselves through exemplary spiritual maturity and service—core values at the heart of ACA’s mission.
The society is named in honor of Don Gilliam and Doug Black, two faithful men whose countless years of service and unwavering dedication to ACA have left a lasting impact on the school community. Their Christ-like leadership and heart for ministry have set a powerful example for generations of students and faculty alike.
This year, 21 seniors were honored as the first-ever inductees into the Gilliam-Black Society. These students were selected for consistently demonstrating servant leadership, spiritual growth, and a genuine desire to serve others both on campus and in the broader community. They not only reflect strong Christian character, but also inspire those around them through humility, compassion, and a commitment to living out their faith daily.
ACA congratulates this inaugural group of leaders and looks forward to the continued legacy of the Gilliam-Black Society. Their example sets a high standard for future classes and embodies the spirit of what it means to be a true servant leader.

Macon East Academy is proud to announce that Regan Frazer, Addison Little, Jadah Powell, and Miya Tatum have been selected to represent Macon East Academy in the AISA Softball Senior All-Star Game! A special shoutout to Jamya Powell, who was selected for the Junior All-Star Team—way to go! Thank you all for a successful and exciting season. We’re proud of each of you!

Mrs. O’s kindergarten class from Forest Avenue Academic Magnet had a great time visiting Dreamfield Farms!

Resurrection Catholic School welcomed Mr. Kevin King, Founder and Executive Director of the King’s Canvas Gallery and Studio! Thank you, Kevin, for visiting our school and sharing your artistic talent with us! Your passion for art is inspiring, and we’re so grateful for your presence and willingness to engage with our students.

We had a FUN FRIDAY at Resurrection Catholic School. We’re wearing our favorite pajamas and the principal is twinning with one of the students. Also pictured are 3rd and 4th graders!

Congratulations to our April Caught Being Good Winners: McKenna Dunn, Genevieve Lewis, Joshua Barnes, Bella Ratsabout, Rowan Young, and Olivia Thomas.

Our kindergarten, along with our friends from the Capital City Master Gardeners Association, worked together to plant sweet potatoes in Lilly’s Garden.

The Beta Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., proudly presented Faith Brown, a standout student from Brewbaker Technical Magnet School, with the Shining Star of Montgomery Award. This prestigious honor, also known as the Rising Star Award, recognizes individuals under the age of 25 who are making a significant positive impact in their communities and uplifting the lives of those around them. Recipients of this award are true change agents committed to service and leadership.
Faith exemplifies these qualities through both her academic and community involvement. At Brewbaker, she is an active member of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Varsity Soccer Team (serving as Goalkeeper), the Student Government Association, and was selected for the 2024–2025 Homecoming Court. She is also a dedicated member of the Fellowship of Christian Students.
Her service extends far beyond the classroom. In the community, Faith has been a Girl Scouts Ambassador for nine years, is a YMCA Youth Achiever Leadership Member, and serves as the Junior Editor of Life Express Digital Magazine. She also contributes her time and talents to Faith Church, where she participates in both the Media Ministry and Youth Ministry, and is proudly involved as a Belle in the Jack and Jill Beautillion Class of 2025.
Faith aspires to become a medical doctor, a goal that reflects her passion for healthcare and her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Mrs. Carter’s 1st and 2nd grade class did such an awesome job on their science projects that she rewarded them with a trip the Planetarium. The students were thrilled to see visualizations of the night sky, stars, planets, and comets.

The students of Forest Avenue Academic Magnet wore purple today in honor of the children of military members. We honor them and the sacrifices they make, along with the rest of their families.

Bear Exploration Center proudly hosted its annual Art Show in April. Every student had at least two pieces of artwork on display, transforming the school’s hallways into a vibrant, gallery-like showcase. Students proudly showed their families their colorful creations and celebrated their artistic achievements.

Sophia Grace Daniel (9) has published her first book! Her love for reading has taken her on an exciting journey as a young, published author. Stay tuned for more books in her George and Tommy series. Sophia also enjoys karate, golf, Girl Scouts and cooking classes. She attended Dozier Elementary in third grade and will attend MacMillan International Magnet for the 2025-26 school year.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School held its 4th Annual Scholarship Breakfast on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at the Wynlakes Country Club ballroom. Montgomery Catholic is proud to award individual scholarships to MCPS students annually. This year we awarded 39 scholarships to 33 current & new students for the 2025-2026 academic year. A total of $113,900 in Scholarships were awarded including 3 college scholarships for outgoing seniors, 22 High School students, 5 Middle School students and 4 Elementary students.
Montgomery Catholic Scholarships
The Legacy Scholarship
Padre Pio Endowed Scholarship
Barry & Bob Robichaux Memorial Scholarship
Anna and Harold Paige Scholarship
Larry Russo Memorial Scholarship
Richard and Reba Foley Scholarship
Anne Ceasar Endowed Scholarship (ACES)
Coach Ralph Furlong Scholarship
Frye, Arban, Ortega Scholarship
The Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins ‘08 Memorial Scholarship
Norma R. Mungenast Endowed Scholarship
Carole Skoneki Clark Endowed Scholarship
Helen Faircloth Gross & Charles J. “C.J.” Gross Endowed Scholarship
JJ Bednarz, Sr. Memorial Scholarship
Class of 2009 Juston Martin Memorial Scholarship
Dr. Tom Doyle Memorial Scholarship for Math & Science
Luke J. Whetstone, Class of 2018 Memorial Scholarship
Coach Wulf Koch Memorial Scholarship
St. Michael Scholarship for Military Families
St. Ignatius Scholarship
Scholarships for Graduating Seniors
Dottie Dean Memorial Alumni Association Scholarship
Anna “Anya” Cecile Bennett ‘18 Memorial Scholarship
Benefactor Awarded Scholarships
Knights of Columbus Council 12150 Scholarship
Total Image Scholarship
Montgomery Catholic was blessed to award 1 new scholarship for the 2025-2026 school year, The Jan Martin Mastin Memorial Scholarship.
Thank you to our Montgomery Catholic benefactors, Total Image and the Knights of Columbus Council 12150 who generously donate scholarships to our students annually.
Please visit www.montgomerycatholic.org for more information about each of our scholarships.

Arts and crafts offer numerous benefits, encompassing physical, emotional, cognitive, and social aspects. They can enhance fine motor skills, reduce stress and anxiety, stimulate creativity, and improve cognitive function. TEA Academy has been blessed to have a renowned global artist on our staff, none other than Mr. Frany Hardy. He started his career as an artist, drawing on whatever he had within his reach. As Mr. Hardy’s skills progressed, he branched off into other areas, including writing, boxing, drumming, dancing, drama, consulting, and teaching. Hardy has written best sellers, some of which will be highlighted in lights soon. Hardy expresses that because of his lack of formal art training, his ability is truly a gift from God. Hardy says, “You never know the true power of a gift unless it is shared.” TEA’s students are excited as they anticipate his arrival for class! TEA’s staff is also grateful for his humility and presence as he graciously embraces our slogan, “Taking an Extra Step Towards Educational Excellence!”

Last month, the Saint James School High School Choir participated in the Alabama Holocaust Commission’s Annual Gathering of Remembrance, held at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in observance of the Days of Remembrance.
The choir performed Mark A. Miller’s arrangement of “I Believe,” a choral setting based on words found written on a cellar wall in a concentration camp during the Holocaust. Their performance honored the memory of the victims and contributed meaningfully to the ceremony.
Governor Kay Ivey and members of the Alabama Legislature were in attendance, along with community members and dignitaries, underscoring the importance of remembrance and ducation.
The Saint James Choir has been honored to support the work of the Alabama Holocaust Commission, a state agency committed to providing Holocaust and genocide education through both public and private resources. The experience was deeply impactful for the students involved, many who have sung at this program for several years.

Montgomery Catholic’s Pro-Life club won the 2025 Hands On River Region’s Youth Group Volunteer of the Year Award. They were recognized for their hundreds of volunteer hours amassed over the school year and for their support of the Chappy’s Deli Breakfast for Babies event which netted $73,000 for local NICUs.
Students and Pro-Life Club members Mikiyah Washington, Anna Rose Schwarz (treasurer/secretary), and Rachel Stringer (current MS rep) attended the 51st annual event which was held at Trinity Presbyterian Church. Thank you to Mrs. Jennifer Rogers for nominating our club. We have been and continue to be very proud of what our Pro-Life Club students have accomplished in our community since the club’s inception in 2017. The Pro-Life Club advisors are Mr. Rick Aaron for the High School and Mrs. Kelsey Burgans for the Middle School.

Saint James School proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of Olivia Willis and Raleigh Covert, who secured individual state titles at the 2024 AHSAA Class 4A-5A State Tennis Championships, held April 22-23 at the Mobile Tennis Center.
Competing in the girls’ singles division, Olivia Willis won at the No. 5 line, while teammate Raleigh Covert clinched the title at the No. 6 line. Both athletes are coached by STJ Tennis Varsity Coach, Geoff Waring. Their victories contributed significantly to Saint James School’s strong presence at the state tournament, showcasing the depth and talent of the school’s tennis program.
Congratulations to Olivia Willis and Raleigh Covert on their accomplishments and for representing Saint James School with excellence on the court.

The National Day of Prayer was originally signed into law by President Harry Truman in 1952. The purpose was to ask all Americans to pray for our nation. In 1988, the law was amended by acknowledging the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer. The students at TEA Christian Academy, Inc. learned about the National Day of Prayer and the meaning behind it. Students can benefit by fostering a positive sense of community, promoting morale and values, and providing opportunities for spiritual growth. Prayer can help students develop empathy, improve decision-making, and strengthen their relationships with God and others. National Day of Prayer can be a unifying event, bringing students and staff together to pray for the school, community, and the nation. We pray that God our Father, the one who gives us life, will continue to watch over us all. Father God, we ask that You will watch over our family, loved ones, our leaders, students, teachers, and all the stakeholders. We ask You to help redirect the negative mindsets of those who we entrust to lead and guide in the right way. You are the rock on which this nation was founded; we ask that You will help us to overcome any chaos that the country is facing, Father God, You alone are the true source of our cherished rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Thank you for all that you have done, are doing, and will do. In the Mighty Name of Jesus!

Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet School student Noah Cortner has made it to “The Notah Begay III Regional Finals”, after placing 2nd at “The Notah Begay III Local Qualifier in ECJGT Spring Championship” in Miramar Beach, FL. The Mississippi Boys Regional will take place on September 5th – 7th at Dancing Rabbit Golf Club (Philadelphia, MS). Noah was also invited to participate in “The Mack Champ Invitational”, hosted by the Cameron Champ Foundation, which took place May 8th – 11th at the Memorial Park Golf Course in Houston, Texas. These tournaments feature some of the game’s best junior golfers of diverse backgrounds from all over the United States. Noah is looking forward to meeting new players, making new friends, and enjoying some great golf rounds at these events.

This prestigious honor recognizes students who exemplify outstanding Christian leadership in athletics, and both John and Francie truly embody that standard. John is a National Merit Finalist, captain of the basketball team, SGA president, and will continue his basketball career at Hillsdale College. Francie is a three-time state champion in basketball and was named MVP of the 2025 state tournament. A standout four-sport athlete, she will continue her basketball journey at Samford University. Beyond their incredible accomplishments on the field and court, what sets John and Francie apart is their unwavering faith. They are a light for Christ and lead by example in both their church and school communities. We are so proud of the way they represent Trinity and glorify God through their gifts.

Alabama Christian Academy is proud to announce Grady Roberts and Ava Burgess as the 2025 Mr. and Miss ACA. This honor is awarded each year to two seniors who exemplify strong leadership, character, school spirit, and academic commitment.
Grady Roberts is known throughout the ACA community as someone who is involved in all aspects of school life. Whether in the classroom, at events, or supporting his peers, Grady consistently demonstrates what it means to be a well-rounded student and a positive influence on campus.
Ava Burgess has distinguished herself through her academic excellence, involvement in student life, and dedication to serving others. She is respected by both peers and faculty for her kindness, integrity, and strong Christian character.
Together, Grady and Ava represent the best of what ACA hopes to instill in its students. Their selection as Mr. and Miss ACA is a testament to their hard work, leadership, and the lasting impact they’ve made during their time at Alabama Christian Academy.

Trinity students recently took the stage in an awe-inspiring display of talent during our Spring Dance, Choral, and Fine Arts Performance! This unforgettable evening celebrated the creativity, passion, and excellence of our middle and high school students, with powerful choral harmonies, expressive dance routines, and artistic brilliance lighting up the stage. It was more than just a performance—it was a reflection of the well-rounded, Christ-centered education Trinity provides. Our students don’t just learn—they shine. We are so proud of their hard work and the vibrant spirit that makes Trinity truly exceptional!

Trinity’s third graders stepped into the world of business for their highly anticipated Market Day, wrapping up an exciting unit on economics! These budding entrepreneurs designed and crafted their own unique products—ranging from handmade treasures to imaginative inventions—and proudly sold them to classmates and faculty. Market Day was more than just fun; it was a hands-on lesson in creativity, financial literacy, and real-world math skills. With innovation, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of responsibility, our students brought learning to life and proved that big ideas can come from even our youngest Wildcats!

Trinity’s Key Club has been awarded the prestigious Key Club Service Excellence Award—an incredible honor that recognizes their exceptional dedication to serving others! This year, our student-led club went above and beyond in giving back to the community, embodying Trinity’s mission to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose. From organizing impactful service projects to supporting local causes, these students have made a meaningful difference through their commitment and leadership.

Congratulations, CHS Speech and Debate member, Nasheed Benjamin, on winning in his category where he competed in “Storytelling and Poetry” at the MPS District Oratorical Contest, hosted at LAMP High School.

The National Speech & Debate Association will be celebrating their 100th anniversary as an organization this June in Des Moines, Iowa during their annual National Tournament. Over 6,000 students from around the world will join the celebration and compete in the tournament.
For the 33rd year in a row, Montgomery Academy has qualified students to the NSDA National Tournament. Congratulations to the following 9 students who will compete for a National Title:
• John Alford
• Mary Beth Arrington
• John Carson Bullard
• Andrew Hosein
• Duncan McInnes
• Price McLemore
• Emon Owen
• Mason Stevens
• Knox Wingate

This year, Montgomery Academy’s partnership with the Respite Ministry was a meaningful journey of compassion, connection, and community engagement. Students brought joy to Respite’s participants through shared songs, conversations, and time together while also learning about the challenges faced by those living with memory loss diseases. Driven by a desire to make a lasting difference, students in all divisions organized a variety of fundraisers throughout the year, ultimately raising $23,966.01 in support of Respite’s mission. We are looking forward to continuing this special partnership going forward.

This semester, MA’s Upper School Theater took audiences on a theatrical journey with two productions that were both a smashing success. First, the cast stepped into The Dining Room and took us on a witty and heartfelt exploration of the changing American upper-middle-class life through a series of interconnected vignettes. In early May, the curtain rose on The Addams Family musical, delighting audiences with its spooky charm, laugh-out-loud humor, and standout musical numbers. A standing ovation is in order for the entire cast and crew along with Director Evan Price ’15!

Proudly standing on the steps of Alabama’s Capitol, this remarkable graduating class of River Region Academy steps into their next chapter: “Your life is your story, and the adventure ahead of you is the journey to fulfill your own purpose and potential.” — Kerry Washington

Future engineers AJ and Jeremiah at work! Using Hot Wheels and racing strips to explore speed, loops, and problem-solving—STEM learning in action, where curiosity meets creativity!

Resurrection Catholic School Kindergarten student, Trelen Hardin, reads Green Eggs and Ham to his classmates.

MCS families, staff, and board members joined to celebrate our dynamic music and art programs. Art teacher, Tiasia Davis and Leigh Ann Atkins, curated a beautiful selection of student art. MCS salutes longtime music teacher, Jenny Renner, on her retirement. She led the students in a marvelous selection of choir and handbells. The evening was a wonderful culmination of a year of hard work and dedication. Thank you, Mrs. Renner!

Montgomery Christian School had the privilege of welcoming back some of our incredible alumni who are GRADUATING high school! They spoke in chapel, shared wisdom with our students, and we had the honor of praying over them as they step into their next chapters.
We are extremely proud of these young men and women heading off to amazing futures — the Navy and Air Force, to Alabama State University (Upper School Math Ed), Jackson State University (Biology Pre-Med), and Berklee College of Music (Music Production & Engineering)! Keep shining, grads — we can’t wait to see what God does through you!

Honoring the legacy of Jamal Doaty through action and impact. Congratulations to River Region Academy graduates Zathan and Jordan—the Jamal Doaty Memorial Foundation (JDMF) scholarship recipients and mentees of Mr. Doaty—continuing his mission of excellence, resilience, and community uplift.

We are proud to announce that the recipients of the 2025 Wade Black Norton Award are Katelyn Sutton and Mac Moorer.
This prestigious award is presented each year to one senior female athlete and one senior male athlete who exemplify the character and legacy of Wade Black Norton. Honorees are recognized for their personal integrity, Christian values, athletic leadership, and academic achievement—qualities that reflect the very best of ACA and its athletic program.
Candidates are nominated by ACA coaches, faculty, staff, and administrators, with the final selection made by the Norton family. Congratulations to all this year’s nominees, and a special congratulations to Katelyn and Mac on this well-deserved honor.