Student Spotlights – April 2025

The stage at Pick Elementary School came alive as young performers brought the audience to the Pride Lands with their incredible production of Disney’s The Lion King KIDS! Under the direction of music teacher Caleb Doster, these student performers have been pouring their hearts into bringing this classic to life. Second graders from Cary Woods Elementary School were included in the audience for today’s dress rehearsal, getting a sneak peek at the show. Along young Simba’s journey to becoming king, a fantastic cast and their performances captured the magic of the 1994 animated classic. Bravo to these talented students for their hard work and passion!

Seventh graders on the ESS Math Team vied for a state championship at the recent MathCounts competition in Birmingham! In February, the team of 14 attended the chapter competition at AUM in Montgomery, with five students advancing to the state championship on March 1. Seobeen Won, Ethan Zou, Sol Park, and Jay Kim advanced as a team, whereas Ezra Lockhart advanced as an individual. Those five students broke down math problems of great difficulty and ultimately placed 5th out of 11 teams competing on UAB’s campus. ACS congratulates the ESS Math Team for representing Auburn well!

6th Graders enjoyed studying the Monroe Doctrine and the Erie Canal. The culmination of their study of the two was a short debate and discussion on the topic of the United States regaining control of the Panama Canal, which has been in the news lately. They integrated their history studies with current events. The debate was lively and a great preparation for the Logic/Rhetoric Stage! Well done 6th Graders!

The Sixth Grade showcased exceptional creativity by imagining technologies and solutions tailored to the distinct challenges of life on Mars. Their ideas featured solar panels for energy, hydroponic farms for food production, and water filtration & recycling systems for waste management. Each proposed ecosystem was unique and highlighted the group’s ability to apply their understanding of Mars’ characteristics.

Lee-Scott Academy surprised its faculty with the announcement of its Upper and Lower School Teachers of the Year. During halftime of the Faculty vs. Students Basketball Game, Mrs. Frances Smith, STEM & Science Teacher, was named the Upper School Teacher of the Year! This morning on WLSA, Dr. Martin-Smith announced that Mrs. Payton Royston, Lower School Counselor, was named the Lower School Teacher of the Year! These two teachers make all of us better and we’re so proud of them!

Eighth graders explore electromagnetic force through a balloon experiment. By inflating a balloon and rubbing it against their hair to generate static electricity, students observe the balloon’s repelling effect and the way their hair stands on end, fostering curiosity and understanding of scientific principles. This hands-on activity aligns with Trinity’s educational goals, encouraging students to appreciate the connections of art and science in God’s creation.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. Psalm 100

The Auburn High School Debate team competed at the ASDA State Tournament in Birmingham this weekend!
The team won 2nd overall in Debate Sweepstakes along with several other accolades.
• Varsity Lincoln Douglas: Harleigh Walker was the 9th place speaker.
• JV Lincoln Douglas Debate: Ethan Foley, State Champion! Ethan Foley also was the 3rdplace speaker.
• Novice Public Forum: Chloe Park was the 9th place speaker.
• Varsity Public Forum: Lily Tao and Emily Jiang won 2nd place. Itamar Sorek and Nikita Nadolnyak-Hartarski won 3rd place. Itamar Sorek also was the 1st place speaker!
• Novice Public Forum: Rayyaan Azhar, John David Kastner, Jay Gupta, and William Powell were Quarter Finalists (top Joseph Ahn was the 6th place speaker.
• Big Questions: Jose Vasconcelos was a Quarter Finalist (top and was the 6th place speaker. Sanea Anderson was the 8th place speaker.
• Varsity Congressional Debate: Harleigh Walker, Joy Ahn, Erica Liu, and Sanea Anderson advanced!

With Mrs. Beard, 6th Grade students have been learning a new printing process in art using “Gelli Plates” to create their prints. With a class set of Gelli Plates, each student was able to design their print using multiple colors and stencils they created themselves. You can look forward to seeing some of these pieces and more Lower School art at the Lower School Art Show.

Mrs. Bryant and her scientists are at it again! AP Biology students investigated bacterial transformation by introducing plasmids, some containing a gene for fluorescence, into a bacterial environment. The bacteria incorporates the plasmid’s DNA and will subsequently glow. Some students had the fluorescent gene and some did not. They’ll find out which of the three plasmids they worked with in their next class period!

Band students at Auburn Junior High School were privileged to work with and learn from Atlanta-based composer and Alabama native Tyler S. Grant. As an internationally recognized composer, arranger, conductor, and clinician of music for concert bands, orchestras, and chamber ensembles of all levels, Tyler served as “composer in residence” for an entire day, working with all AJHS bands to perform songs he had written. From having his first piece of music published in middle school to becoming a full-time composer, Tyler told his story to the students in between sharing his expertise and sharpening their musical notes. ACS thanks Tyler S. Grant for his visit and Mr. Josh Wine for coordinating this opportunity for students!

Dean Road Elementary School Kindergarteners had an exciting day at Auburn High School, getting a hands-on look at Career Technical Education! During their visit, students rotated through classrooms where AHS teachers and students introduced them to various careers in robotics, health care, teaching, construction, agriculture, and dietary skills. This collaboration between elementary and high school students provided a unique opportunity for some of the youngest members of Auburn City Schools to explore future learning pathways in a fun and interactive way. February is Career Technical Education Month, and experiences like this help spark curiosity and inspire students to dream big about their futures—both in school and beyond!

Lee-Scott Academy’s Middle School Choir, LSA Singers, participated in the Alabama Vocal Association’s State Choral Performance Assessment in Montgomery. Mrs. Petrone and the group received Superior ratings in performance and sight-singing. Congratulations to this group on all their hard work being rewarded!

First graders at Cary Woods Elementary School took the stage for a powerful and inspiring Black History program, sharing their talents with families and friends. The program started with a special live broadcast of Explorer TV, anchored by students, before transitioning into a heartfelt performance featuring Sing About Martin and Lift Every Voice and Sing. Their voices and energy filled the room, honoring the legacy of Black history through music and storytelling. Kudos to CWES Music Teacher Dr. Rob Lyda and his student intern, Ryan Hamilton, for guiding and supporting the young performers so well!

The 2025 Employment Fair and Career Expo at Auburn High School aimed to assist students in envisioning their future! Hosted by the Auburn City Schools Career Technical Education department with more than 60 community organizations and businesses supporting the event, students had an excellent opportunity to explore career options and meet potential employers, with some even scheduling interviews before returning to class. From administrators and teachers to the countless volunteers, ACS thanks everyone involved in making this happen for students!

Students centered their hearts on Jesus today as they prepare for Lent! Students started the day by singing “This Little Light of Mine” to remind them of the theme for the year. Each elementary class participated in different activities throughout the day to focus on Lent, this even included a black light room where students wrote down what they were giving up for lent. Students were encouraged to not only give up something for lent, but to add something in its place. Whether that’s more time in worship and prayer, or doing more Christ-like deeds throughout the day. We highly encourage having a family discussion about Lent over the weekend! We are so proud of our students!

After two action-packed days of epic battles at the Alabama State Championship, Auburn High School’s Robotics 36830A team rocked the stage by clinching the Tournament Champions Award! This competition was a filled with fierce problem-solving and non-stop teamwork and communication. Now, the team will now gear up for the VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas, Texas from May 5-9. ACS congratulates these amazing innovators for their spirit, creativity, and all-out enthusiasm. We can’t wait to see them continue to shine on the world stage at VEX Worlds. Best of luck to Howard Homburger, Chris Min, Harrison Elkins, and their coaches Sarah Sharman and Jacque Middleton!

Teachers from Yarbrough Elementary participated in the Alabama Milken Visionary Partnership Program. Kaitlin McPeake, Jessica McMurray, and Dr. Jessie Matthews spent the day in Birmingham learning, growing, and collaborating with excellent educators from around the state. From discovering their cornerstones of teaching to being pinned with excellence, these teachers proved they are prepared to be the best version of themselves for students. The Alabama Milken Visionary Partnership Program aims to celebrate teachers with a focus on advancing education through professional development.

Students at ACA LOVED celebrating Valentine’s Day with friends and staff at school.

Six Auburn City Schools robotics teams competed at the Alabama Middle School VEX State Championship! After two days of hard-fought competition, judges’ interviews, 256 overall teamwork matches played, and a skills competition, the results are in:
Team 36832H (Aiden Kim, Braylen Cobb, Dalton Parker, and Sarah Hong) were awarded the Design Award, given to the team with the most effective and efficient robot design process.
Team 36832C (Berkeley Wu, Lucy Tamblyn, Mabel Theeck, and Ryan Bang) received the Build Award, which recognizes a well-constructed robot built with a high degree of attention to detail to withstand the rigors of competition.
Team 36832S (Ben Cox, Hayden Kwon, Irene Oh, and Lilah Boutros) won the Tournament Champions award, given to the winning alliance in the final matches. They also earned the Excellence Award, the most prestigious award of the day, given to the top all-around team, combining robot performance and judged criteria. Auburn City Schools is incredibly proud of all the students who competed. Best of luck to these three teams as they head to VEX Worlds in Dallas, TX, this May!

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Nina Mendoza on signing a bowling scholarship to the University of Mobile!

More than 600 eighth graders from Auburn Junior High School took a field trip to Southern Union State Community College for the 2025 Career Expo! From automotive and manufacturing to public safety and healthcare, representatives from an array of professions were present to give students an up-close look at potential career paths while highlighting the many trades being taught at SUSCC. ACS thanks everyone involved, from the ACS CTE Department and AJHS administrators to the bus drivers and tour guides, for making this happen for students!

Auburn Junior High School was alive with engaging learning opportunities during their annual Multicultural Night. With 28 countries represented, students, families, and staff came together to celebrate each other’s cultures. Guests explored interactive booths, enjoyed delicious foods, and experienced performances that included an Indian music ensemble. Students traveled from booth to booth, collecting passport stamps and learning about one another through food, music, and art. ACS thanks everyone who helped make tonight so special!

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Calvin Hughley on signing a South Dakota State University football scholarship.ess

Much thanks to Dr. Adams for visiting our PreK-2nd grade classes! We learned about what causes cavities, how to protect our teeth, and what the life of a dentist consists of.

Auburn Public Library exhibited various artwork for the community to admire the creative talents of our SMCS Students. Their artwork was showcased in a display that was opened to the public. We thank Mrs. Giddens for nurturing the artistic side in each of us!

Congratulations to Lee-Scott Academy sophomore, Pie Clinard, for winning Gold Key Awards in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Her original painting, “Playing by Lamplight,” and her masterfully crafted sculptural dress, “Brothers Grimm” — which features both hand-painted and hand-sewn elements —have been recognized as top regional works. Winning a Gold Key represents the highest honor at the regional level. Pie’s artworks will now advance to the national competition, where they will be considered for prestigious national awards. We are proud of Pie’s artistry, dedication, and storytelling through visual art. Best of luck as her work competes on the national stage!

AU Symphonic High School Honor Band performance included 4 Warrior Band members – James Bagley, Campbell Thomas, Jazriene Revalde and Will Rhodes – and concluded with a special concert at the Gogue Performing Arts Center. In addition, James and the other first chair musicians were invited to play with the AU Symphonic Winds! What wonderful recognition and a great experience for these students who build on their talent with diligence and hard work!

K. J. from Auburn’s Best After School and Summer Camp was awarded and recognized as AEEC’s (Auburn Early Education Center) Tiger Club of the Month!

5th grade students tested the pH of different liquids to check for the acidity level and drinkability. They determined they would need additional tests to determine if they could actually taste some of the samples.

Using the engineering design process, Middle School students in Mrs. Smith’s STEM class were tasked with creating a prosthetic device for disabled animals. After watching videos on specific animal cases with missing appendages, the students worked within their material constraints and created a prototype device for the animal, working under the criteria that it needed to improve the animal’s quality of life, be easy to take on and off, fit comfortably, and perform the appropriate function.

Thank you to Auburn Equestrian for celebrating Read Across America week with St. Micheal Catholic School students. Two equestrians visited SMCS and read books about horses to our students, spoke about being a student athlete, and answered questions about their sport! Thank you Holland and Molly!

To celebrate Dr. Seuss, elementary students read to PreK classes! PreK students worked on Dr. Seuss crafts and talked about their favorite books!

Trinity Christian School’s Shelby Nelson signed with Southern Union State Community College for a full-ride scholarship to run cross country. She is the first athlete to sign a scholarship to run at the collegiate level in Trinity program history.

The LSA Bakes Club, hosted by Lee-Scott Academy 4th Grade teachers, recently learned countless vocabulary and skills for the kitchen while making yummy treats. Club members made a layered strawberry and cherry trifle, along with a Cupid Crunch, and brought home some delicious goodies to their families

Students represented Lee-Scott Academy well at the Southeastern Swimming Championships in Huntsville. 6th Grade student Kate Whatley and 5th Grade students Margaret & Anne Whatley brought home four individual gold medals, seven individual silver medals, and two individual bronze medals! In the process, they also broke three team records. Congratulations to all who participated and we can’t wait to see these girls and more compete for the Warriors soon!

Seventh grade U.S. History students have been learning about the life and presidency of Theodore Roosevelt. To understand more about his character, values, and humble leadership, each student read a different chapter from George Grant’s book “The Courage and Character of Theodore Roosevelt” focusing on his honorable character traits. Students then wrote a short essay about the how Roosevelt’s life demonstrated these virtues and how they could in turn apply them to their own lives. Each seventh grader presented their essay in class. This exercise allowed them to share their research and findings with each other while taking another small step in the long process of becoming thoughtful, discerning, and articulate rhetoricians.

SMCS PreK students had a special visitor today. For “S” week, Fuzz the Snake came with the LaPorte family! The LaPorte family brought a snake skeleton and shed skins for the students to touch and see. Students had many creative questions such as “what is his last name?”, “do snakes have eyelids?”, and “does he have more than 30,000 scales?” Thank you do the LaPorte family for bringing Fuzz the not so fuzzy snake!

Many families joined together, carpooled, and packed the stands to cheer on the Eagles in the AISA Final Four game. The teachers and students at the school joined together to cheer on the Eagles through the livestream broadcast which included fantastic commentary by 2 of our awesome seniors, and the team was welcomed back by the sweetest group of teachers, students, and parents. We love our school and our families!

Lower School STEM students are engaging in a March Madness-inspired project. They are exploring the process of manufacturing basketballs using thermoplastics and applying their knowledge to design and engineer basketball goals and throwing devices using a variety of materials. Through this hands-on activity, students are discovering the importance of collaboration, both in the classroom and on the court, as they work together to achieve their goals!

Richland Elementary School proudly hosted its 17th Annual Black History program, bringing students, staff, and families together for a meaningful celebration of history, culture, and unity. Under the direction of Mr. Joseph Rowser, music teacher at RES, K-2 students delivered inspiring performances, including “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and original arrangements complete with choreographed dance moves. Bravo to all the students who had speaking roles in the program for their display of confidence on stage when sharing the legacy of Black history. ACS celebrates the students for making this year’s program successful while carrying on a tradition of learning, reflection, and celebration!

Congratulations to Burch Harris and Memshalyah Weaver for being named Mr. and Miss OHS! Taylore Phillips (pictured left) was named Miss Freshman Class, and Blakely Parrish (pictured right) was named Miss Sophomore Class. In addition to the class winners, Mackenzie Young was named Miss OHS First Runner-Up; Eleanor McCoy was named Miss OHS Second Runner-Up; AJ Harvis was named Mr. OHS First Runner-Up; and Myles Tatum was named Mr. OHS Second Runner-Up. Scholarships will be awarded to Mr. and Miss OHS and all runner-up winners. Congratulations to all!

Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika City Council honored our incredible 2024 Teachers of the Year at their meeting. These outstanding educators were recognized for their dedication and impact on our students. Thank you to these amazing teachers for making a difference every day!

Congratulations to Brady Campbell, OHS Senior, for signing his wrestling scholarship to Wallace The Citadel.

Juniors & Seniors traveled to Butter & Egg Adventures in Troy, Al. for Trinity’s 1st ever Leadership Retreat. The students participated in team-building activities, zip lined, and completed a high ropes challenge course that forced them to depend on and support their teammates. The students learned a lot about themselves, and fun was had by all.

“Read Across America Week” has been in full force in the Lower School. Students wore neon and were given glow sticks to encouraged them that reading makes them “bright!” Some classes had a designated reading time in the dark with their glowsticks, and flashlights. Students are listening to read alouds and “popping” into a good book with bags of popcorn and P.O.P. (Predict, Observe, Pause) comprehension cards for a classroom activity. We have loved seeing students encouraged to enhance their love for reading in fun ways!

Opelika High School Career Tech tours Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National. Our students had an amazing experience touring the Grand National Marriott Resort & Spa, getting a firsthand look at the incredible career opportunities in the hospitality industry! From the ever-popular breakfast buffet to relaxing spa services, live music, and s’mores by the firepit, this resort truly offers it all! A huge thank you to Chris Brown and his outstanding staff for sharing his insights and showing our students how they can start working at Marriott as young as 16 in the recreation area! Opportunities are everywhere, and we’re excited to see the next generation of hospitality professionals thrive!

Teachers and leaders from across Opelika City Schools participated in a day of professional learning with Wiley Blevins, an author, educational consultant, and researcher in the field of literacy. During the seminar, the group explored the key characteristics of strong phonics instruction and the 10 common causes of phonics instructional failure. Our teachers enjoyed the day strengthening their literacy skills and instructional strategies with this leader in the field of literacy.

Our students had a wonderful time and learned so much at Tools of the Trade hosted by OHS and SUSCC.

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Brady Campbell on winning the AHSAA 7A Wrestling State Championship (175 lb weight class)! Campbell was also named the 7A “Most Outstanding Wrestler”. This is the THIRD State Championship for Brady. We are so proud of you! Go Dawgs!

East Samford School Art Teacher Tricia Oliver was recognized as the Alabama Art Educator of the Year by State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey and the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) Board during the February 13 meeting in Montgomery. In anticipation of Youth Art Month in March, Andy Meadows, Fine Arts Specialist for the ALSDE, proposed a resolution recognizing Mrs. Oliver and other arts educators for their devotion in and out of the classroom while being leaders in their respective professional organizations. Mrs. Oliver served as President of the Alabama Art Education Association from 2020 to 2022 and has presented professional development at local, state, and national levels. She is currently in her sixteenth year of teaching at East Samford School. ACS appreciates Mrs. Oliver’s impact on art education in Alabama!

Talented theatre students attended the Alabama Thespian Festival in Birmingham, where they competed for individual events, watched incredible performances, and participated in workshops to grow as artists. We are so proud to announce that Campbell Thomas and Reese Colley both earned superior ratings in Solo Musical. Karson Brown and Audrey Edwards received a superior rating in Duet Musical, and Campbell Thomas, Reese Colley, and Jay Collins earned a superior rating in Group Musical. Because of their outstanding performances, they have all qualified to advance to the International Thespian Festival at Indiana University this summer! Congratulations to these amazing performers!

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville nominated 57 students in Alabama to U.S. Service Academies, including four students at Auburn High School. Sen. Tuberville is the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Personnel for the Senate Armed Services Committee, where he can help bolster military recruiting and retention.
ACS commends the following students for their hard work, wishing them the best as they prepare to serve as a part of the class of 2029!
United States Air Force Academy:
– John David (JD) Dallas: Auburn, AL; Auburn High School; son of Doug and Heather Dallas
– John Willis (Jack) Parsons: Auburn, AL; Auburn High School; son of Robert and Ashley Parsons United States Military Academy:
– Savannah Grace Trejo: Auburn, AL; Auburn High School; daughter of Charles and Jazzmin Trejo
United States Military Academy and United States Naval Academy:
– Madison Lydia Walz: Auburn, AL; Auburn High School; daughter of Paul and Heather Walz

Congratulations to Mr. Jeff Hudson & the Lee-Scott Academy Concert Band for another straight Superior performance at the Alabama District 6 Music Performance Assessment. Competing at Beauregard High School, the band had perfect scores across the board once again. Way to go!