Montgomery Student Spotlights – May 2026

As a community service project to help our homeless neighbors, The PEARLS (Pleasant Enthusiastic Articulate Responsible Ladies Succeed) Club at Success Unlimited Academy recently gathered some necessary items to give to two missions in Montgomery who serve those who are in need: Mercy House and Quiet Storm Outreach Group, Inc. Mrs. Rhonda Wilson who is the sponsor and founder of The PEARLS garnered donations from various churches as well as purchasing items. Snack crackers, Goldfish, granola bars, juice boxes, toothbrush kits with paste, hygiene items such as deodorant, wipes, soap, washcloths, and warm socks were collected and place in 100 brightly colored waterproof knapsacks. The PEARLS girls were so generous in their giving and in their labor to bring a little blessing to those people who are in need in our city. We’re proud of you, ladies!

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School hosted its Annual Freshman Puzzle Day on March 31, giving students a unique opportunity to experience math in a fun and engaging way. Designed specifically for freshmen, the event featured a wide variety of hands-on puzzles that challenged students to think creatively and work collaboratively. Students were divided into 6 teams, each guided by an adult advisor, fostering both teamwork and problem-solving skills throughout the day.
All puzzles were crafted by Eric Harsbarger, a professional logic puzzle designer and developer of national-level puzzle competitions, who is celebrating his 11th year leading the event at Montgomery Catholic. In addition to his work in puzzle design, Mr. Harsbarger serves as a math instructor at Auburn University and is known for his passion as a life-size LEGO sculptor and Master Builder. Freshman Puzzle Day highlights an important lesson for students—that math goes far beyond numbers and equations. By recognizing patterns, applying rules, and thinking critically, students gain a deeper appreciation for how math connects to real-world problem solving—all while having a great time.

Saint James School middle and high school students recently gathered for a Community Assembly, part of the school’s quarterly Core Values series highlighting character, commitment, courage, and community. These assemblies reflect Saint James’s commitment to shaping not only strong students, but thoughtful and engaged citizens.
The featured speaker was Saint James alumna Caitlin Cobb Goodwyn ’14, who returned to campus to speak on the core value of community. She was joined by Gerald Jones, Executive Director of Brantwood Children’s Home. Together, they offered students a clear message: community is not passive. It is built through action, sustained through service, and strengthened when people choose to invest in something beyond themselves.
Drawing from her time at Saint James and her professional journey, Goodwyn encouraged students to recognize the role they play in shaping the communities around them. While at Saint James, she was actively involved in Youth Judicial, Youth Legislature, the Conference on National Affairs, and the Student Government Association, experiences that sparked her interest in government and law. She also brought school spirit to life as the mascot for three years and was a member of the equestrian team.
Goodwyn attended The University of Alabama, where she served as Student Government Association Chief of Staff and graduated magna cum laude. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor from The University of Alabama School of Law, where she held several leadership roles including Student Bar Association Elections Board Chair, Alabama Law Ambassador, and Alabama Law Alumni Society President.
Now a shareholder at Capell & Howard in Montgomery, Goodwyn remains deeply engaged in her community. She serves on the boards of Brantwood Children’s Home, Heart of Alabama Food Bank, Samaritan Counseling Center, and the First United Methodist Church Board of Trustees. Her leadership and service have been recognized through honors including Montgomery’s “40 Under 40,” the Alabama Defense Lawyers Association “Women in the Law: Distinguished Service” Award, and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch.
Saint James School’s Core Values assemblies are held each quarter and serve as a meaningful touchpoint for students to reflect on the principles that guide the Saint James experience. Saint James School prepares students not only for academic success, but for lives of responsibility, service, and purpose.

Saint James School’s Parent Association (STJPA) recently hosted its spring Parent Education Series meeting, continuing its commitment to equipping families and faculty with meaningful tools to support student growth and development.
Held once each semester, the Parent Education Series is designed to strengthen the partnership between school and home by providing practical, research-based strategies that benefit students both in and out of the classroom.
The evening’s program featured Elementary School Counselor Mrs. Laura Gibson and Kindergarten teacher Mrs. Ali King, who presented on the Zones of Regulation, a nationally recognized framework used in Saint James School’s Lower School.
Gibson, who has served as the school’s Elementary School Counselor for seven years, holds a Master of Education in School Counseling, a post-graduate certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, and is a National Certified Counselor.
During the session, Mrs. Gibson and Mrs. King shared how the Zones of Regulation help students identify their emotions, understand how those emotions impact behavior, and develop strategies for self-regulation. By creating a shared language for emotional awareness, the program supports students in building confidence, resilience, and positive relationships.
Parents in attendance were also provided with practical strategies to reinforce these concepts at home, further strengthening consistency between the classroom and family environment.
The event also highlighted the ongoing work of the Saint James Parent Association, which invests countless hours into planning events, supporting faculty and staff, and creating opportunities that directly benefit students and the broader school community.
“The Parent Education Series is one of the many ways our families and school work together to support the whole child,” said Head of School, Dr. McLemore. “We are grateful for the leadership of our Parent Association and for the opportunity to learn alongside one another.”
Saint James School remains committed to fostering a strong, connected community where students are known, supported, and equipped to thrive.

In Anatomy & Physiology, Mrs. Bruce’s students explored the structure of the eye through a sheep eye dissection to make real-world connections to the nervous system. Hands-on learning at its best as they traced how the eye sends information to the brain and deepened their understanding of sensory pathways.

Saint James School seniors recently visited the Alabama Shakespeare Festival to see a live performance of Much Ado About Nothing, enhancing their study of the play in English class and bringing Shakespeare’s work to life outside the classroom.
The visit offered students a unique opportunity to connect the themes, characters, and language of the classic comedy with professional stagecraft, deepening their understanding and appreciation of literature.
“Seeing live theater productions is an important part of a well-rounded education, and we have the remarkable opportunity to see some of the South’s finest, simply by crossing the street,” said Dr. Catherine Winn, STJ English Teacher and Department Head. “The seniors have spent the last month reading and studying the play together before attending ASF’s production, and now they will analyze the creative choices made by the cast and crew. This gives them a chance to experience something new and incredibly meaningful, of course, but it also encourages them to use their critical thinking skills to evaluate a work of art.”
The trip reflects Saint James School’s commitment to experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to engage with arts and culture in meaningful ways while connecting curricular content to real-world experiences.
Saint James School continues to provide enriching academic experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in all students.

Ms. Richardson’s 2nd grade class at Dannelly Elementary School has been followed March Madness with their very own bracket. They watched the championship game and worked as data analysts for ESPN. Students worked in teams to analyze the players stats and recorded the data on a line plot. They celebrated with snacks from the concession stand.

MPS middle and high school scholars had the opportunity to meet bestselling author Jason Reynolds, known for his books Ghost and Long Way Down. The conversation challenged students to think deeply about choices, identity, and the impact of their voices.
This experience was part of Living Lit, a districtwide reading initiative launched this school year by library media specialist Yolanda Huntley. Living Lit brings literature to life by turning reading into art, dialogue, and action, creating meaningful, real-world connections for students.

Congratulations to our LAMP High School tennis team for winning the state championship! These young men showed what it means to compete with heart and represent their school with pride.

Floyd Middle Magnet received a $1,000 check from DAS North America, Inc., which will fund the school’s band program.

Our students were incredibly excited to present the spirit of the Civil Rights Movement to their parents and loved ones during Black History Month. The students took a deep dive into the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., moving beyond textbooks to explore his global impact through a powerful, student-led skit.
The performance didn’t just recount dates and speeches; it centered on the core virtues that defined Dr. King’s journey: everything good, noble, honest, and true. Student participants: Jordan Anderson-Gadson, Nicalai Cleveland, Cyndee Dixon, Tamario Gadson, Sniah Parker, Sariah Peterson, Dante Peterson, Brandon Daniels, Charity Dillingham, Kaleb Holt, Joel Howze, and Genesis Payne.
A Message of Non-Violence and Change Through carefully rehearsed dialogue and symbolic scenes, the students illustrated Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to non-violence. They portrayed a man who believed that “darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” Thank you, Mr. Daniel Barlow and Mrs. Bonnie Robinson, for making this a wonderful program, and to ALL our supporters.

CHS Senior Speech and Debate and Ambassadors students conducted research on George Washington Carver High School at the AL Archives of History to help with their Legacy Podcast as part of their farewell contribution to their school and the upcoming students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

“Black history is American history—a legacy of culture and progress that inspires us to continue building a more just, equal, and united future.”
The students at TEA Academy celebrated Black History month, and students learned something new every day! The students honored the legacy of History by researching the “visionaries” of our past. Inspired by the work of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the “Father of Black History,” Kaleb Holt, Cydnee Dixon and their classmates are proving that the revolutionary study of African American history is in good hands. You all are awesome!

Join us in celebrating Caleb Johnson for being selected as a recipient of the Red Tails First Flight Scholarship through the Gathering of Eagles Foundation!
Caleb’s hard work, leadership, and commitment to excellence have truly set him apart. This incredible achievement reflects not only his accomplishments, but also his bright future ahead.

Ms. D’s students are all smiles as their daffodils burst into full bloom, a colorful reward for their patience and care. What started as tiny bulbs has grown into a bright reminder of how a little effort and sunshine can turn into something beautiful. A special thank you to the Montgomery Clean City Commission, Capital Blooms, and Pick Up Montgomery for helping make this hands-on learning experience possible!

Our 6th grade students had the BEST time at Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville! From hands-on exploration to exciting new discoveries, they loved every moment of learning and adventure. Their curiosity and enthusiasm shined as they experienced science in a fun and engaging way. It was truly an out-of-this-world day they will never forget!

Montgomery Christian School’s 4th grade students enjoyed a guided tour at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, where they explored portraits, landscapes, and still life paintings. Afterwards, they participated in an Artworks class with Ms. Elisabeth Palmer, creating their own still life masterpieces and showcasing incredible creativity. The day wrapped up with plenty of fun in the museum’s interactive area, making it a memorable experience full of art, learning, and smiles.

FAAM Kindergartners wrote cards for their fifth-grade buddies to wish them good luck on their ACAP tests. FAAM loves the sweet relationships between our oldest and youngest learners!

Mrs. Payton’s class is taking teamwork to the next level! RRA students worked together in groups to research different types of weather storms, building skills in collaboration, communication, and compromise along the way. From sharing ideas to dividing responsibilities, they showed what it really means to work as a team while learning about the power of nature. We have some future meteorologists in the making!

Montgomery Christian School’s 3rd grade students had an unforgettable day of learning and exploration at Tuskegee University. They toured The Oaks, visited the George Washington Carver Museum, and enjoyed lunch at Hello Park near the childhood home of Lionel Richie. Their adventure continued at the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, where history came to life in a powerful way. To top it all off, students completed their trip booklets and proudly earned their hats and wings, making it a day full of discovery, history, and hands-on learning.

Forest Avenue 4th graders went to the Frank M. Johnson Federal Courthouse to learn with the Frank M. Johnson Institute. Judge Jerusha Adams spent time with our students teaching them about the law and included some history from the Civil Rights Era. It was a fascinating, informative day!

Our precious Pre-K scholars enjoyed an exciting and fun-filled field trip to the McWane Science Center in Birmingham, Alabama! From hands-on science activities to exploring interactive exhibits, our little learners had the opportunity to discover, explore, and learn in such a fun and engaging way! They enjoyed seeing exciting displays, participating in educational experiences, and making wonderful memories together! It was truly a day full of smiles, laughter, curiosity, and learning!
A special thank you to our amazing Pre-K teachers for your hard work, love, and dedication in making this trip a success. Your commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences for our students does not go unnoticed!
And a heartfelt thank you to our parents for your continued support, cooperation, and partnership. We appreciate you for always helping make opportunities like this possible for our children! We are so proud of our Pre-K babies and all the fun they had while learning outside of the classroom!

Macon East Academy first graders had an exciting and educational day at the Let’s Pretend Hospital, where they learned all about the world of healthcare through fun, hands on activities. Students rotated through interactive stations that introduced them to different medical roles and tools, while discovering how hospitals help people every day.
From checking vital signs to exploring pretend medical equipment, our young Knights were fully engaged and eager to learn. The experience sparked curiosity, encouraged teamwork, and helped students better understand the importance of caring for others. It was a memorable day of learning, imagination, and exploration for our first graders.

Resurrection Catholic School welcomed the Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN). They brought a group of Catholic Bishops and other Catholic leaders to Montgomery for a Lenten Retreat. They spent time in Montgomery at Mass here at Resurrection Catholic Church Friday, March 20. We had a wonderful time!

Our 1st and 2nd graders had an AMAZING time on their field trip to the zoo today!
They enjoyed seeing the animals up close, exploring, learning, and making sweet memories with their classmates. From feeding the giraffes to spotting the tigers and flamingos, today was full of smiles, laughter, and FUN!

Resurrection Catholic School is proud to recognize Amir Hubbard, 2nd Grade, as our 1st Place Winner for the 2025–2026 American Heart Association Kids Heart Challenge!
Amir, we are so proud of you for your hard work, dedication, and outstanding effort. Your participation and achievement are truly something to celebrate! Thank you for helping support such an important cause while representing Resurrection Catholic School with excellence.

Macon East Academy is proud to announce that seniors Sam Wallace, Jamya Powell, and Cole Streetman have been selected as 2025–2026 AISA Student Athlete Award Winners, one of the Alabama Independent School Association’s most respected honors.
The AISA Student Athlete Award recognizes seniors who excel not only in athletics, but also in academics, leadership, character, and service to their school communities. Being chosen for this award places each student among the top well rounded leaders in the association.
• Sam Wallace has distinguished himself through his achievements in multiple sports, his academic commitment, and his leadership roles across campus.
• Jamya Powell has demonstrated exceptional athletic performance while maintaining strong academic standing and leadership within the Lady Knights program.
• Cole Streetman has excelled both in the classroom and in athletics, earning recognition for his dedication, work ethic, and positive influence on his peers.
Macon East Academy celebrates these outstanding seniors for representing the Knights with excellence in every arena. Their achievements reflect the values of hard work, integrity, and commitment that define our school community.

Macon East Academy is proud to announce that seniors Patrick Ernest and Sam Wallace have been selected to the 2025–2026 AISA All-State Academic Team, an honor reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and character.
The AISA All-State Academic Team recognizes seniors across the Alabama Independent School Association who have excelled in the classroom while balancing the demands of extracurricular involvement, athletics, and service. Selection to this team reflects a student’s commitment to academic excellence and their ability to lead with integrity.