Montgomery Student Spotlights – January 2026

Bear families proudly participated in the MPS Food Drive benefiting the Heart of Alabama Food Bank, collecting more than 200 cans of food. These donations were creatively transformed by Bear Art Club students, who designed and built an impressive castle for the MPS Can Build Challenge. Their teamwork and creativity paid off—Bear’s can sculpture earned the Viewer’s Choice Award!

Montgomery Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Zickeyous Byrd recently announced the launch of a transformative set of initiatives designed to expand student opportunities, strengthen academic excellence, and align education with the workforce needs of Montgomery County. These initiatives ensure that every MPS student, regardless of school zone, has access to strong, innovative, and career-ready pathways.

Montgomery Public Schools has launched a new literacy partnership with the Equal Justice Initiative to support early reading and expand access to high-quality books. The initiative began at Highland Gardens Elementary, where K through second-grade students received two free books to take home, reinforcing MPS’s commitment to early literacy and educational equity.

With support from True Divine Community Development and the BIKE Foundation, the MPS Social Work Department gifted bikes to 20 elementary students this Christmas, spreading holiday cheer and highlighting the power of community.

Alabama Christian Academy kicked off the Christmas season with a brand-new event—Sundaes with Santa—and it was a huge success! A wonderful number of ACA families and friends came out to join the festive fun and make sweet holiday memories together.
Children spent the afternoon writing letters to Santa, enjoying a flurry of magical snow, creating their own Christmas ornaments, and of course, building delicious ice cream sundaes. The excitement grew even more when the Big Man in Red himself arrived to visit with families and spread Christmas cheer.
This first-ever Sundaes with Santa event was filled with joy, laughter, and the warmth of our ACA community. It was truly a special day—and the perfect start to the holiday season.

Bear Exploration Center kindergarten students delighted families and staff with their festive performance, A Holiday Moosical, bringing holiday cheer to the stage. The young performers were adorable in costume, dressed as toy soldiers, Christmas trees, and little elves. Santa took on a leading role alongside a cheerful moose, guiding the story through music and movement. The joyful songs, bright costumes, and enthusiastic smiles made the performance a heartwarming celebration of the season.

Chrisette Trone, a fifth-grade student at MacMillan International Academy, made her acting debut as Young Elsa in the Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s production of Frozen. A company dancer with Symphony Q Academy of Dance, she excels both academically and in the arts, supported by her family, teachers, and mentors.

MPACT HVAC students are already making their mark, earning OSHA, NCCER, and EPA certifications all within their first semester. This achievement highlights their dedication and the excellent training provided by MPACT.

Congratulations to Montgomery Academy Sophomore David An who took home the state championship in the 100-yard Butterfly (1A–5A) and finished runner-up in the 100 Freestyle at the state swim meet. MA is proud of you, David!

Bear families proudly participated in the MPS Food Drive benefiting the Heart of Alabama Food Bank, collecting more than 200 cans of food. These donations were creatively transformed by Bear Art Club students, who designed and built an impressive castle for the MPS Can Build Challenge. Their teamwork and creativity paid off—Bear’s can sculpture earned the Viewer’s Choice Award!

Montgomery Academy second graders kicked off the Thanksgiving Break with the beloved annual program, A Fall Celebration, performed for the Lower School and their families. The showcase was a joyful reminder of the beauty of the season and the many things we have to be grateful for. A big bravo to our dedicated second grade teachers, volunteers, Lower School Choral Director Zabriel Rivers, and—most of all—our aMAzing second graders for their outstanding performance!

On Thursday evening, December 4, MA’s Middle and Upper School choruses presented a memorable Winter Concert at First United Methodist Church. Under the direction of Elizabeth Kimbrough, the Middle School Choruses opened the program, followed by the Upper School Chorus led by Director of the Arts, Dr. Damion Womack. Together, the groups presented a beautiful and diverse repertoire, weaving together selections from classical traditions to modern compositions.

MA’s MAthletes participated in the University of Alabama 41st Annual High School Mathematics Tournament in Tuscaloosa and won first place! The competition consisted of an individual comprehensive examination and a team written competition. MAthletes participating included Heize Kim ’26, Miseong Park ’28, Jason Son ’27, Justin Son ’28, Duncan McInnes ’28, and Irene Yoo ’28. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

Saint James School recently held its annual Fall Recognition Ceremony to celebrate 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.
This year’s group honored at the Fall Recognition Ceremony are a group of students, many of whom have been at Saint James beginning in preschool, who have used a combination of their talents and the education provided at Saint James to achieve academic success.
As the ceremony commenced on Thursday, November 12, Academic Dean Susan Atkins congratulated ten students from the Class of 2026 who have been named as National Merit Commended Students and National Merit Semifinalists. Commended students are Chloe Choi and Aden Brinkman. National Merit Semifinalists are William Harvey and Preston Phillips.
Also recognized at the ceremony were AP Scholars. Saint James students in this category total 49, including members of the Class of 2025. Saint James is proud to have 18 AP Scholars with Distinction and 12 AP Scholars with Honors. Additionally, Saint James students scored 67 perfect scores of a 5 on a College Board AP exam in 2025. Overall, students achieved a 92% pass rate (score of 3 or higher) on all 233 AP exams taken in 2025.
An additional group to be recognized consisted of students who have made a perfect score on all the AP exams that the student has taken at Saint James to date. Members of this group of stellar students made a score of 5 on the following exams: AP AB Calculus, AP BC Calculus, AP Drawing, AP Literature and Composition, AP African American Studies, AP Macroeconomics, and AP US Government.
Students who earned perfect scores on ACT or SAT sections were also lauded. These students include Aden Brinkman (36 ACT Reading), Luke Catchings (36 ACT Reading), Chloe Choi (36 ACT Math and 800 SAT Math), Siwoo Kim (800 SAT Math), Michael Phan (800 SAT English), and Steve Chung (800 SAT Math). Alex made a composite score of 36 on the ACT, and Selina made a perfect score of 1600 on the SAT.
Further, a special recognition was given to nine Saint James students who earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy: Aden Brinkman (German, Working Fluency), Heesee Cho (Korean, Working Fluency), Lucy Lim (Korean, Functional Fluency), Brian Oh (Korean, Functional Fluency), Isabella Pappas, (Spanish, Functional Fluency), Michael Phan (Spanish, Functional Fluency), and Chloe Taylor (Spanish, Functional Fluency).
The Fall Recognition Ceremony is another way Saint James celebrates the achievements of its students. The honorees and their families attended a special reception after the ceremony.

Resurrection Catholic School had the honor of welcoming Ms. Ro Tyus from the Office of Violence Prevention! She kept it REAL with our students and that’s exactly what we admire about her. She didn’t hold back. She spoke the truth, reminded them that choices have consequences, and encouraged them to do what’s right, stay out of trouble, and avoid unnecessary drama!
Ms. Tyus also talked to our students about conflict resolution — how to communicate, how to walk away, and how to choose peace over problems. Her message truly connected. A few of our students even said they want to be like her when they grow up. That tells you the kind of impact she made.
We are truly grateful and appreciative that she took time out of her busy schedule to pour into our students. She also assured us that she’s available to return anytime we need her and we are thankful for that continued support.
Thank you, Ms. Tyus, for your honesty, your guidance, and your commitment to our children!

The heat was on at Success Unlimited Academy to see whose fans were the most generous, Alabama’s or Auburn’s! The SGA sponsored the AISA (Alabama Independent Schools Association) Can-A-Thon at both campuses to collect canned goods for families in need. With so many people impacted by the lack of federal funding for assistance programs such as SNAP the plan was to help out families this Thanksgiving “in our own backyard” so to speak. SGA President Alasia Nye, Vice-President Cydney Martin and Secretary Anyla Mays decorated collection boxes in the team colors and challenged fellow students to vote for the best team by bringing non-perishable goods. The SUA Mustangs collected a total of 448 cans during the two-week campaign. The final tally was taken on Thursday, November 20, and the students from grades K4-8 collected a total of 240 cans with Auburn & Alabama tying in donations; the high school, grades 9-12, collected 108 cans for Auburn and 100 for Alabama which was pretty close, just like the Iron Bowl in Opelika on 11/29, but with a different result. Regardless of whether we shout “Roll, Tide!” or “War Eagle,” we can all agree that the food drive was a SUCCESS and you’re always a winner when you give generously to those in need.

Trinity senior Brycen Dorsch has signed to play collegiate golf at Shelton State Community College, continuing a strong competitive career that has already placed him among the state’s top golfers. As a junior, Brycen earned a third-place finish at the AHSAA 4A State Golf Tournament, and he enters his senior season poised for another standout year. His success highlights Trinity’s ability to develop elite student-athletes and prepare them for competition at the next level.

For more than 25 years, Trinity’s ‘Twas the Night has been a treasured Christmas tradition in the River Region, bringing the story of Christ’s birth to life through music, Scripture, and the arts. Featuring students from across multiple grade levels, the program highlights Trinity’s long-standing commitment to artistic excellence.
Trinity is also proud to be the only independent school in the River Region to offer a full-time dance program, providing students the opportunity to develop their gifts with discipline, creativity, and purpose—all within a Christ-centered community.

MA Athletic Director Wright Ward has been selected to serve on the faculty for the Carney, Sandoe & Associates Athletic Director Training Camp (ADTC), a premier professional development program for new and aspiring athletic administrators across the country. Chosen from a competitive national pool, Coach Ward was recognized for his leadership, professionalism, and expertise in athletics administration. The next ADTC will be held in Philadelphia on July 6–9, 2026, where Coach Ward will help mentor and shape the next generation of athletic directors.

Trinity’s kindergarten Christmas play marked a special milestone this year, celebrating 50 years of sharing the Christmas story through the voices of Trinity’s youngest students. With joyful songs and heartfelt moments, the long-standing tradition continues to delight families and reflect the school’s Christ-centered mission.
For five decades, this beloved performance has helped lay the foundation of faith, confidence, and a love for learning.

At George Washington Carver, four student-athletes signed with full scholarships: Zion Crumpton (Mississippi State); LaRodney McQueen (Tennessee State University); Elijah Peake (West Kentucky); and Kendarius Reynolds (Troy University).

A huge thank you to Cedric Bradford, and Octavia Tillman Sullen of State Farm Insurance for making Fire Prevention Week such a success for our students!
Our students loved the posters, stickers, coloring books, flyers, and banners. EVERYTHING you provided helped make learning about fire safety and prevention both fun and meaningful!
We truly appreciate your partnership and your commitment to keeping our children informed and safe.

Three Trinity Presbyterian School middle school students—Brayden Morse, Somer Favor, and Valentina Gomez-Zuniga—advanced to the AISA Statewide Spelling Bee, competing against students from 45 schools across Alabama after winning their respective 6th, 7th, and 8th grade class spelling bees.
At the state level, Brayden Morse placed 14th among sixth graders, while Valentina Gomez-Zuniga earned an impressive 6th-place finish among eighth graders. Their performances reflect Trinity’s emphasis on academic excellence, confidence, and preparation.
We’re proud of these Wildcats for representing Trinity so well on a statewide stage.

Recently, students at Success Unlimited Academy, recycled square tissue boxes by creating “Career Cubes.” This clever project was assigned by Mrs. Rhonda Wilson to her Career Prep Students as a way to visualize the various elements involved in possible career choices. Each surface was to illustrate a different category related to a specific career. Students were to research the education necessary to work in this profession, where the best schools were which specialized in education of the profession, the actual skills and specific tasks involved, the pay scale one could expect upon entering the field and then moving up, and the future need for experts in the field. The cubes were very imaginative and creativity was a criteria. The students presented the information included on their cubes to the class. Mrs. Wilson always strives to use interesting and different project ideas to peak her students’ interest.

Today, we had not just one, but two very special visitors! Mark from Easter Seals came to visit us, and he brought along his amazing service dog, Winston!
Our students had such a wonderful time learning about service dogs and the important work they do. They were so excited to meet Winston. They had the opportunity to pet him, give him treats, and even take some adorable pictures together!
It was truly a great day filled with smiles, laughter, and love. Thank you, Mark and Winston, for spending time with us.

Montgomery Christian School Kindergarten students spread holiday cheer by singing Christmas carols and spending time with senior community members at the Crossing at Eastchase. The visit provided a meaningful opportunity for students to connect across generations and share joy with others. It was a heartwarming highlight of December for both teachers and students alike.

On October 28th, Dr. Sandy Edwards and members of the Continentals National Association, Montgomery, AL Local Chapter visited TEA Christian Academy to speak with students in observance of Red Ribbon Week.
Red Ribbon Week is a national drug and alcohol awareness campaign that honors individuals who have lost their lives to violence linked to substance abuse. During the visit, Dr. Edwards challenged students to “operate in their own authority” by saying no to drugs, alcohol, smoking, and all forms of violent behavior.
Before departing, the Continentals distributed personal journals and treat bags to each student as a reminder to make positive choices. TEA Christian Academy expressed heartfelt gratitude for community organizations like the Continentals, whose dedication inspires youth to pursue healthier, brighter futures, by making good choices.

On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, the students at Success Unlimited Academy performed for friends and family in the annual Christmas program directed by Mrs. Vickie Parrish who has directed this program for an entire decade! Ms. Bethany Odle assisted Mrs. Parrish and ran tech for the program with lights, sound and media. One hundred Kindergarten through fifth grade students participated in the event after several weeks of rehearsal. The fifth graders told the story of Christ’s birth and reenacted the Nativity in costume with sets created by Mrs. Parrish! All of the children sang carols about Jesus’ coming to earth.

Montgomery Christian School (MCS) has earned a significant national honor, as their students’ artwork was selected by Governor Ivey to decorate the official Alabama tree in President’s Park in Washington, D.C. The MCS ornaments, which celebrate the unique culture and history of Alabama, are proudly displayed beside the National Christmas Tree as part of a beloved holiday tradition featuring 59 U.S. states and territories. A delegation of MCS students, parents, and staff recently traveled to the nation’s capital to represent the school in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Made possible by the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service.

Fourth grade Forest Avenue students wrapped up their novel study with a virtual reality project. This collaboration between language arts, STEM, and technology teachers put students in the driver’s seat. Students recreated key scenes from the novel to highlight narrative story elements and showed off their technology skills along the way! Story elements and creative coding came together to create a truly immersive experience.

Fourth and fifth grade students at Montgomery Christian School enjoyed an enriching field trip to the Alabama Archives building. Through hands-on exhibits and guided learning, students explored primary sources and gained a deeper understanding of Alabama’s history. The experience allowed students to connect classroom lessons to real-world historical artifacts while traveling back in time through the state’s past.

Macon East alumnus Jack Jones was recently selected as one of the newest members of The 87 at Troy University! This distinguished recognition honors the university’s top juniors, seniors, and graduate students who exemplify academic excellence, strong leadership, dedicated community service, and outstanding potential.
Each year, only 87 students are chosen—symbolizing Troy’s founding in 1887—and honorees are recognized at a special reception hosted at the Chancellor’s residence.
We are incredibly proud of Jack and this remarkable achievement!

Ms. Mai DeHart’s students had an incredible session exploring puzzles, coding, and Ozobots during their 4-H STEM Robotics activity! 4-H STEM Robotics through Alabama A&M University (AAMU) gives students hands-on opportunities to learn science, technology, engineering, and math by designing, building, and programming robots. A huge thank-you to Angela Kelly for leading such a fun-filled and engaging learning experience. Our students loved every minute! We are excited to see them grow as future innovators!

Macon East Academy is proud to announce that all four of our seniors — Will Hasson, Sam Wallace, Elliot Fitch, and Cole Streetman — were selected to the AISA All-Star Football Team!
The All-Star Game was held on Wednesday, February 3, at Cramton Bowl, where our Knights were also represented on the sidelines with Coach Lott serving as a coach for the East team.
In a thrilling matchup, the West edged out the East 53–52. For many of our seniors, this game marked the final chapter of their high school football careers — a memorable and exciting finish they will carry with them for years to come.
We are incredibly proud of these young men and all they have accomplished on and off the field!

At Success Unlimited Academy, Mrs. Barbara Grimes has expanded her Monday afternoon after school Studio Art Program due to popular demand! Splitting the large group in two made it possible to give each student more one-on-one instruction and personal attention. These student artists are in two different “clubs” now: The Mustangs (Grades 9-12) and The Colts (grades 3-8)! Each group meets twice a month and enjoys an afternoon of art, fun, fellowship and food! The final studio meetings of the year consisted of all the above plus games in celebration of Christmas! See if you can guess which group is which?

Macon East Academy was proudly represented at the State Spelling Bee, held at Vaughn Forest Church in Montgomery, by Halyn Wren, SJ Jemison, and Caroline Vocino, . All three contestants delivered an outstanding performance in a competition that tested skill and endurance, with each bee lasting nearly two hours.Halyn distinguished herself by advancing to the final four out of forty-five talented spellers from across the state – a remarkable achievement in such a challenging field.
Congratulations to Caroline, SJ, and Halyn for showcasing the spirit and determination of the Knights. Way to go!

Saint James School hosted Beyond the Game: Living Trojan Character in the Stands and on the Field on Monday, November The Commons. The free STJ community event focused on character, sportsmanship, and the shared responsibility families and coaches have in shaping a healthy athletic culture.
Faulkner University Head Basketball Coach Scott Sanderson served as the keynote speaker, bringing decades of coaching experience and a strong commitment to leadership development.
The evening also included a panel discussion featuring Saint James Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore, AHSAA Referee Skip Powe, Coach Scott Sanderson, and psychologist Ginger Morrison, PhD, who offered insights on positive parent engagement, player well-being, and fostering respect for the game. The conversation was moderated by a former collegiate athlete and current Saint James parent, Joel Hughes.
To make attendance easy for families, complimentary dinner was served and free childcare was provided for currently enrolled Saint James students during the event. Saint James School welcomed parents, guardians, teachers, and coaches to join this meaningful conversation about supporting athletes both on and off the field.

Choral students from across Alabama recently auditioned for the 2026 Alabama Vocal Association All State Chorus, and eight Saint James School students have earned positions in this prestigious ensemble. These students will represent Saint James School at the All-State Choral Festival held at Samford University in March.
7th grader Sadie York
8th graders Faith Anelu, Reagan Rolling, Charlie Wee, and Rachel Yu
9th grader Alex McIlwain
10th grader Dominic Troccia
11th grader Abigail Roark
In addition, Saint James junior Abigail Roark has been named the Outstanding Choral Student for District VI of the Alabama Vocal Association. This honor recognizes exceptional student leadership in a choral setting. The competition includes a vocal solo performance, a resume detailing musical achievements and honors, and an interview.
All district Outstanding Choral Student winners will advance to the state level in March. The statewide winner will receive a scholarship to the college of their choice.
The Saint James School choirs are led by Director of the Arts, Dr. Sallye York (‘00).

Mrs. Williams’s first graders at Forest Avenue enjoyed a day full of Grinch-themed activities! Students worked together to help the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes while also learning about carbon dioxide.

Saint James School proudly celebrated three outstanding student-athletes as they signed scholarship offers during a special Signing Day Ceremony on Thursday, December 4, at 9:40 a.m. in the Saint James School gymnasium. This event marked an exciting milestone for these athletes as they took the next step in their academic and athletic careers.
The following students signed their letters of intent:
● JB Braswell– baseball, Auburn University at Montgomery
● Bailey Woods– tennis, Huntingdon College
● Emily Needham– softball, The University of South Alabama
Their respective coaches are:
● Coach Keith Lucky (baseball)
● Coaches Geoff Waring (Saint James School tennis) and Dani Leal (Wynlakes Golf and Country Club- tennis)
● Coach Mark Hall (softball)
Saint James School Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore and Athletic Director Larry Ware joined coaches, faculty, families, and fellow students in celebrating these athletes’ hard work and dedication.
“This is a special day for our school as we celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of these student-athletes,” said Coach Ware. “Their commitment in the classroom and in their sport reflects the core values we strive to uphold at Saint James.”
Families, friends, and supporters gathered for the Signing Day Ceremony to celebrate each student’s achievements and the exciting opportunities ahead.
For more information, please contact Coach Larry Ware, Athletic Director, at lware@stjmontgomery.org or (334) 273-3015.

Please join me in celebrating Resurrection Catholic School’s very own Mrs. Vonzetta Graham for receiving the Christ the King Medal—a remarkable honor that reflects her unwavering dedication, faith, and service!
We are so proud of her and deeply grateful for the love, leadership, and commitment she pours into our school community. This recognition is truly well deserved!

The Polar Express made a magical stop right here at Resurrection Catholic School, and it was absolutely amazing! Our students enjoyed a night full of festive fun and literacy-filled activities that brought the Christmas spirit to life!
They visited so many exciting stations, including writing a letter to Santa; a hot chocolate station, cookie decorating, creating their own Christmas ornaments, and a super creative Ugly Christmas Sweater Decorating Contest. The joy on their faces said it all. They had a WONDERFUL time!
A very special thank you to Theresa Tesa Patterson and her team for putting together such a phenomenal event. They worked closely with the students to make the night unforgettable!
I am beyond proud of our students. Their behavior was excellent, their excitement was contagious, and their creativity was on full display. We also had an amazing group of volunteers who showed up and showed out.
And to top it all off… the GRINCH himself made an appearance! Students enjoyed delicious food and even snapped pictures with him. It truly felt like Christmas magic everywhere you turned.

The Forest Avenue Chorus brought Christmas joy to the residents at Wesley Gardens.

The Forest Avenue Chorus, led by Ms. Erica Lutz, performed at the Montgomery Zoo Lights Festival.