Student Spotlights – August 2025

Montgomery Catholic students Campbell Webb, Molly Turner, Madelyn Stringer, Hannah Grace Zaworski, Taelyn Billups, and Anna Rose Schwarz participated in the immersive Supreme Court and My Hometown Program through the Middle District of Alabama, and the Frank M. Johnson Institute.
Over a week they explored the judicial branch through the lens of a local case, Frontiero v. Richardson (1973). They engaged with federal judges, attorneys, historians, professors, and community members to investigate the case and gain an in-depth understanding of how it moved through the federal court system. As a culminating activity, they created a unique capstone project to educate their community about the impact of the case and the federal court system.

Fourth grader Ann James Kohn recently brought home a major win with her softball team, Bama Blitz, as they captured the 8U 2025 USSSA National Championship title. The team dominated the tournament with an undefeated 7-0 record, showcasing exceptional teamwork, talent, and determination.
Ann James played a key role in the team’s success, and her Macon East family couldn’t be prouder. Congratulations to Ann James and the entire Bama Blitz team on this incredible achievement!

We are two weeks away from the start of homeschool classes at the Alabama Nature Center. We are excited to begin! We certainly have missed you over the summer. This is a friendly reminder that registration will be ending soon and classes will start August 6th and 7th if you are interested in attending this year. For further details regarding registration, discounts and more, please call (334)-285-4550 or email Tammy at tammy@alabamawildlife.org

Saint James School recently welcomed its youngest learners for a week of fun and foundational growth at its annual Kindergarten Readiness Camp. Designed for rising K5 students, the camp gave members of the Class of 2038 a joyful introduction to school routines while building academic readiness and social confidence.
This year’s camp featured a vibrant Eric Carle theme, inspired by the beloved children’s author and illustrator. Throughout the camp, students engaged in colorful art projects, practiced early literacy and math skills, and developed classroom habits in a playful, encouraging environment. Equally important, students had the chance to form friendships and learn the value of collaboration, all key elements of a successful start to Kindergarten.
“Our goal is to help students feel excited, confident, and ready for the transition into K5,” said Kindergarten teacher Anne Auston Morrison. “This camp gives them a chance to learn and grow while having fun and getting to know their teachers and classmates.”

Alabama Christian Academy recently hosted a successful boys basketball camp, welcoming over 40 eager participants from 1st through 6th grade. The gym was full of energy as young athletes worked on developing their fundamental skills, including dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense.
Led by ACA coaches and players, the camp focused not only on improving basketball technique but also on building teamwork, sportsmanship, and a love for the game. It was a great week of learning, growth, and fun for all involved. ACA is proud to invest in the next generation of Eagles on and off the court!

Several Alabama Christian Academy students recently traveled to Guyana as part of a mission team from University Church of Christ for a life-changing trip focused on service, outreach, and faith. While there, the group led a Vacation Bible School (VBS) for local children, sharing Bible stories, songs, and games that brought joy and hope to the community.
In addition to VBS, the team worked on various service projects to help meet the needs of the local area—demonstrating Christ’s love through action. From lending a helping hand to forming lasting relationships, the group embraced every opportunity to serve.
A special moment from this year’s trip came when the team reconnected with church leaders they had met during last year’s mission trip. At that time, the group brought ACA shirts to share, and when they returned this summer, the preacher was still proudly wearing his ACA shirt—a meaningful reminder of the strong connection built between the two communities.
This mission trip not only allowed the students to make a positive impact, but also deepened their own faith and commitment to serving others. We’re incredibly proud of these ACA students and the entire University Church of Christ team for shining the light of Christ in Guyana.

The Eagles have taken flight to continue soaring to higher heights in learning. As we embark on another school year, we are preparing for a positive and productive year, starting with Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), which is not just about teaching students how to conduct themselves, but developing a positive and supportive learning environment where students can thrive personally and academically. It doesn’t matter where students are in their learning, as long as they have the mindset to learn and work hard to accomplish the tasks at hand. No matter how focused the teachers are, the most important factor should start with SEL, and not academics. SEL matters a great deal for important life outcomes such as success in school, college, and helping to finish what a person starts, and to have a positive life outcome in general. SEL should be taught and nurtured in schools so that students can increase their ability to integrate thinking, emotions, and behaviors in ways that will lead to positive outcomes throughout their lives, helping them succeed in their careers, relationships, and communities. Mentor Specialist Jimmie Ware will facilitate this workshop. TEA Academy is committed to helping students succeed at school and in life, because WE CARE!

Congratulations to our Macon East JV Cheer Team for an outstanding week at cheer camp! The team’s energy, determination, and school spirit led to a series of remarkable achievements and statewide recognition.
Three cheerleaders—Bella Ann Spires, Gillie Phillips, and Ella Loughridge—were named All-American Honorees, celebrating their exceptional talent and performance. Bella Ann Spires was also selected as a “Pin It Forward” recipient, an honor recognizing leadership, positivity, and kindness.
The team dominated in competition, bringing home multiple top awards, including:
• 1st Place – Cheer
• 1st Place – Sideline
• 1st Place – Overall Game-Day
• Small JV State Champions
We are incredibly proud of this talented group for representing Macon East with excellence, sportsmanship, and heart. Go Knights!

ACA’s PLI team traveled to the campus of York University in York, Nebraska to this year’s leadership conference. The Presidential Leadership Institute is designed for high potential students in grades 10-12. The institute offers an intensive experience to grow individual student leaders, provide the framework for each student group to make a positive impact in their school, and offer professional development for sponsors in attendance.
This year, the team was able to tour the Eisenhower Presidential Library and meet and interact with Mary Eisenhower (granddaughter of President Dwight Eisenhower). As part of the conference the students participated in team building projects designed specifically for your school, and had classes taught by industry leaders on character based leadership, academic leadership and business leaders. Each evening, the students capped their time worshiping and studying the Bible together.
This is a highlight of the year for our student leadership team and is an integral part of developing the culture at ACA.
Team members: Campbell Hammett, Layla Guice, Anne Forrester, Addison Bailey, Colton McDuffee, Trey Holladay (Sponsor), Rachel Phillips (Sponsor)

George Washington Carver High School Class of 1999 awarded students with scholarships: Nasheed Benjamin, Cardarius Hopkins, Zy’Asia Belser (not pictured), and Noah Maye for recognition of their commitment to academic excellence; exemplifying the values and spirit of Carver High alumni.

The Montgomery Catholic Marching Knights are gearing up for an exciting 2025–26 marching season under the direction of Band Directors Alex and Kristine Johnson. This year, the band will be led on the field by Drum Major Vivian Bush.
The Marching Knights’ halftime show, titled “Glorious,” promises to be a crowd-pleaser, featuring iconic rock anthems such as “Stairway to Heaven,” “Carry On Wayward Son,” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.” With a dynamic musical selection and dedicated leadership, this season is set to be a memorable one for both performers and fans alike.

SHORT the Squirrel is a beloved character and part of a non-profit organization committed to promoting literacy across Alabama. Known for visiting schools and community events, SHORT captured the attention of Summer Camp students at Pine Level Elementary School. Through an interactive read-aloud, SHORT helped foster a lifelong love of reading among our youngest students in grades K–3. The students were not only excited but also fully engaged in the reading experience.

This summer, Montgomery Academy was abuzz with energy, creativity, and camaraderie as campers from across the River Region came together for Summer@MA, a series of dynamic camps designed to spark imagination, build confidence, and teach new skills—all while having a great time. From the workshop to the soccer field, from chess boards to martial arts mats, Summer@MA was packed with fun, learning, and lifelong memories.

Surprise, Surprise, Surprise! As a special reward for all the hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm our students have shown throughout summer camp, we’ve prepared a surprise just for them!
Every student will be receiving books, treats, and fun prizes to celebrate their achievements and show how proud we are of their efforts.They’ve earned it!
I want to thank them for being such an amazing group. I also want to thank my amazing team for always showing UP and showing OUT! As you can see by their smiles, they were soooo happy to receive their surprise!

Autauga County Schools is participating in the USDA’s National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program again this year. Under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program, breakfast and lunch will be provided at no charge to all students for the 2025-2026 school year. No applications or additional information are required.
Autauga County Schools participated in CEP during the previous two school years, and due to the success and participation of students consuming meals, ACS has chosen to participate again this year! All students are encouraged to participate to ensure the program’s continued success and longevity. Students may enjoy full meals every school day or supplement their meals from home with vitamin-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and milk.
“I am thrilled that our district is offering free meals for a third school year,” said Audra Segers, Child Nutrition Program Director. “Food insecurity is a continued concern for many families. Our summer feeding program proved that families are in need and that every little bit helps. Offering free meals during the school year helps eliminate at least one worry for parents and students so they can focus on learning and making the most of this school year.”
CEP is a key provision of the Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010, which allows schools and school districts to eliminate school meal applications and serve breakfast and lunch at no charge to all enrolled students. CEP gives food service professionals more time to focus on preparing nutritious meals. More importantly, by offering all students a healthy breakfast or lunch at no cost, CEP helps ensure more students come to class well-nourished and ready to learn. All meals will follow the United States Department of Agriculture’s guidelines for healthy school meals.

Macon East senior Sam Wallace recently took part in the Dixie Electric Cooperative Youth Tour and had an unforgettable experience in Washington, D.C. Alongside other students, Sam toured the U.S. Capitol, visited historic monuments, and even attended a Washington Nationals baseball game.
A highlight of the trip was Youth Day, where students from across the country gathered to learn about the importance of civic engagement and leadership. Sam especially enjoyed meeting with members of Congress and gaining insight into how the government works.

G.W. Carver High School students gained insight into diverse STEM careers, including Drone Pilots and Computer Coders. Appreciation is extended to advisors: Ms. Keshia Williams, Ms. Patricia Muhammad, and Ms. LeTonya Sullivan. Submitted by Angela Kelly

In June, Montgomery Academy’s Varsity, JV, and Middle School cheer squads headed to Auburn University for UCA Cheer Camp and came away with the experience of a lifetime as all teams returned with accolades, awards, and a lot more experience as they continue to get ready for the 2025/26 season!

More than 50 young girls got a taste of what it’s like to be a Pike Road Cheerleader during cheer camp this summer. Over the course of a few days, participants practiced tumbling, learned PRS chants, and even tried their hand at stunting. The young cheerleaders will showcase their new skills at an upcoming varsity football game this fall.

The Pike Road High School FCCLA officers dedicated a Saturday morning to volunteering with the Pike Road P.R.A.Y.E.R. Team’s Summer Feeding Program. They teamed up with a few PRS faculty & staff members to load vehicles with food, spreading smiles all morning long!

Montgomery Christian Middle School (MCMS) is excited to announce the opening of a new 6th grade for the 2025–2026 school year. This important step is the result of much prayer, planning, and faith. MCMS remains dedicated to offering a Christ-centered, academically rigorous education while expanding student growth through leadership, service, and the fine arts. Our students will benefit from classes that nurture character, creativity, and community-minded leadership.

Kindergarten and first graders made number generators with hammers and nails. They learned important safety measures while learning to properly use the tools.

Solar/math lessons are fun for Pine Level Elementary students.

Exciting changes are ahead for Montgomery Christian School! Starting in the upcoming school year, MCS will open its doors at a brand-new location—6610 Vaughn Road. This move marks a major milestone in the school’s growth and commitment to excellence. We’re thrilled for our students to learn, grow, and thrive in a new space.

Congratulations to rising Montgomery Academy senior Jackson Brown! On July 22, he was named South MVP at the AHSAA North-South All-Star Tennis match for his outstanding play and leadership. MA is proud of you, Jackson.

Montgomery Christian School is proud to announce a new partnership with the MCS Preschool, now welcoming children from infants through K4! We were honored to adopt the legacy of Aldersgate Preschool, ensuring its children and families continue to receive excellent early childhood education rooted in Christian values. In addition, the program was recently honored as “Best of the River Region” in the daycare category, a testament to its dedication and excellence. This joyful partnership marks an exciting new chapter for MCS and the families it serves.