Student Spotlights – April 2026

Educators from Auburn City Schools joined colleagues from across Alabama at Auburn University’s inaugural Education Summit. The event brought together teachers, counselors, and administrators to collaborate on strengthening the educator pipeline, sharing ideas, and tackling key challenges facing schools today. Representing ACS were Wes Gordon, Meg Podemski, Kari Sides, Shaniqua Lockhart, Angelia Small, Jacque Middleton, and Damarius Baldwin. We’re proud of their leadership and dedication towards ongoing growth in support of our students and community.

Students from Auburn High School and J.F. Drake Middle School had the special opportunity to attend Hero: The Boy from Troy at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center (GPAC). This inspiring production tells the story of young John Lewis and the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement who inspired him. Through music and storytelling, students experienced how Lewis’ devotion to justice and his call to get into “good trouble” have shaped American history. Experiences like this bring classroom learning to life, not only broadening students’ understanding of civic responsibility but also allowing them to feel the transformative power of live performances. ACS is grateful for opportunities that connect learning, leadership, and the arts!

Wrights Mill Road Elementary School welcomed family members and local volunteers for a special “Read to a Kid” celebration. Guests read aloud to students in the Wright Place Café, while fifth graders served books and snacks with the utmost hospitality. WMR staff and faculty added to the excitement by dressing up as their favorite book characters, bringing stories to life, and showing students how much fun reading can be. Reading aloud builds more than literacy skills. It strengthens confidence, ignites imagination, deepens comprehension, and creates lasting connections between readers and listeners. Moments such as these remind us that when we read together, we grow together. Thank you to everyone who helped make today happen for students!

2026 marks 100 years of honoring the history, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans! Across Auburn City Schools, students and staff commemorated this centennial with meaningful programs filled with music, student performances, and powerful reflections. Ogletree Elementary was honored to welcome Coach Joe Whitt as a special guest speaker, Cary Woods sang songs from Ella Fitzgerald to Stevie Wonder, and Auburn Early Education Center had a “walking museum” of student artwork in the hallways leading into the Tiger’s Den for their performance. Many students participated in living history portrayals, stepping into the roles of iconic Black leaders and trailblazers to help bring their stories to life. Schools celebrated not only the past, but the leaders and changemakers of the future.

The National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) has announced that ACS Athletic Director of Athletics James Slaton has been recognized as a Certified Athletic Administrator. To earn this distinction, Coach Slaton has demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and expertise in interscholastic athletic administration. The voluntary certification process included a thorough evaluation of the candidate’s educational background, experience, and professional contributions, along with a rigorous, comprehensive written examination. James Slaton is one of an elite group of interscholastic athletic administrators nationwide to attain this level of professionalism, and ACS is proud to have him on our team!

Auburn Junior High School held its annual Black History Month Café today, creating a meaningful opportunity to celebrate culture, history, and community. Teachers and administrators collaborated to host a potluck-style luncheon featuring a variety of Southern delicacies, including cornbread, collard greens, pimento cheese grits, and other traditional favorites. The shared meal provided a warm, welcoming space for fellowship as faculty and staff gathered during their lunch breaks. The celebration extended beyond the table. Students contributed thoughtfully designed artwork highlighting influential Black figures who have shaped American culture, leadership, science, the arts, athletics, and civil rights. These works of art lined the café’s walls, turning the space into both a gallery and a gathering place. The Black History Month Café not only honored the rich contributions and lasting impact of Black Americans but also strengthened unity within the AJHS community. Events like this serve as a reminder of the importance of reflection, appreciation, and coming together to celebrate the diverse stories that help shape our shared history.

Several of our schools proudly participated in the Lee County Special Olympics Bowling Tournament today at Bowlero in Auburn. The morning began with an unforgettable send-off at Ogletree Elementary, as athletes were cheered on by Aubie, Auburn University Cheerleaders, and members of the Auburn High School Marching Band, creating a moment filled with smiles, high-fives, and plenty of school spirit. From there, elementary and secondary students gathered at the lanes for a day of fun and friendly competition. Every roll, every strike, and every celebration showcased what Special Olympics is all about: courage, determination, joy, and community. ACS is so proud of our athletes for representing with heart and excellence. Thank you to Auburn Parks & Recreation, ACS staff, families, and volunteers who make days like this possible.grow

February is Career & Technical Education Month in Alabama, and Auburn City Schools is proud to showcase the power of hands-on learning across all grade levels. Kindergarten students from Dean Road Elementary visited Auburn High School to explore the many Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs offered. From building construction to mass media and beyond, these young learners got a firsthand look at the exciting opportunities that await them in the years ahead. AHS students and teachers led the way, guiding, teaching, and inspiring the next generation, serving as a reminder that in ACS, learning is connected, collaborative, and future-focused!

Yarbrough Elementary students welcomed special guest author Rae Marsh, creator of the beloved Maggie book series. Marsh shared the journey behind her writing process, gave students a behind-the-scenes look at collaborating with an illustrator, and read an excerpt from her newest book, Maggie Montgomery Races Through Time, that left students wanting more. The audience was fully engaged as they listened, asked thoughtful questions, and connected the stories they love to the real person who brings them to life. Experiences like this do more than promote reading; they inspire possibility. When students meet the authors, whose books fill their school library shelves, stories become more personal, creativity feels more attainable, and the dream of becoming a storyteller feels within reach. ACS thanks Rae Marsh for encouraging a love of reading and showing our students that their own stories matter!

Yarbrough Elementary hosted Auburn University’s GeoBus, which is a traveling STEM laboratory from the Department of Geosciences in the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM). The GeoBus brings hands-on earth and environmental science experiences directly to students, transforming learning into an interactive adventure. From exploring rocks and minerals to discovering the dynamic systems that shape the planet, students are engaging in real-world science in exciting new ways. ACS is proud to partner with Auburn University’s GeoScience Department and is grateful that Yarbrough is kicking off this incredible experience. Opportunities like this inspire curiosity, spark innovation, and help grow the next generation of scientists and problem-solvers!

Richland Elementary School welcomed families to their annual Black History Program, centered around the theme “Let’s Grow Together.” Students honored the culture and lasting contributions of Black Americans through enchanting performances and presentations. The young students portrayed leading figures such as Thurgood Marshall, Ruby Bridges, Harriet Tubman, and Jackie Robinson, relaying stories of courage and resilience. The program featured kindergarten, first, and second-grade speakers, a special African drum performance, and a rendition of the Nigerian folk song “Eh Soom Boo Kawaya (Kay-dou Ka-dee),” meaning “Paddle fast, rain is approaching.” This program served as a gentle reminder that being together and loving one another is how we truly grow. ACS is proud of our students and staff for leading a meaningful celebration that inspired unity and love!

Auburn City Schools team members attended the Alabama School Nutrition Association’s Annual Conference in Montgomery. ACS Child Nutrition Program staff members participated in engaging educational sessions and heard from inspiring speakers, including Lasada Pippen, all focused on strengthening the vital role school nutrition plays in student success. ACS is proud of our dedicated Child Nutrition Program team for continuing to grow, learn, and bring fresh ideas back to serve our students with excellence every day!

Students from Wrights Mill Road Elementary and Auburn High School had a great experience attending the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Jay & Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center (GPAC) this morning. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is one of the most acclaimed modern dance companies in the world. It was founded in 1958 and has captivated audiences across more than 70 countries with its breathtaking choreography and universal message of humanity and joy. ACS is grateful for the partnership with the GPAC, which provide students access to live performances that enrich their learning beyond the classroom. Seeing artists perform in person encourages students to engage with the arts and connect with the creative spirit of our community. Thank you to the Jay & Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center for bringing these transformative experiences to Auburn, and for inspiring the next generation!

A big thank you to Dr. Morgan Yordy and her students from the Auburn University College of Nursing for bringing a morning full of hands-on learning and fun to our Wrights Mill Road Elementary. Students met Sully, the service dog, as a part of Auburn’s PAWS on the Plains animal-assisted therapy program, which teaches compassion, calm, and connection with a furry friend. The Auburn Fire Department was on hand to share safety tips and showcase its equipment. Students also practiced important life skills to help them succeed every day before exploring the Sensory Activation Vehicle, a mobile space designed to help kids regulate and feel comfortable in sensory-rich environments. Dr. Yordy’s work connects emotional wellness, sensory awareness, and animal-assisted interaction, making learning fun and meaningful. A special shout out to WMR Educational Resource teacher, Madison Howard, for coordinating this effort. ACS is grateful for this partnership!

Kindergarteners from Woodland Pines Elementary are visiting the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. During the visit, students explored the galleries with a special focus on quilts. Each child designed and colored their own quilt square, which will be sent back to school and buttoned together to create a collaborative class quilt to serve as a sweet reminder of their museum experience. A special thank you to the Auburn University student guides who lead these tours as part of the university’s outreach efforts. Their energy, patience, and creativity help bring art to life for our youngest learners. ACS is grateful for this partnership and the meaningful learning experiences it brings to our students!

Opelika Middle School and Opelika High School show choirs competed in the River City Classic at Tallassee High School. Hudson Owen from OHS won the high school solo competition, Addie Matheny won the middle school competition, and Sara Scott Barnes was a finalist. Congratulations to all!

On National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day, we celebrate the collaborative partnership between Auburn City Schools and the Auburn Public Safety Department. We are grateful to have dedicated, uniformed officers serving in ACS. Their presence goes far beyond security. While they keep our campuses safe and secure, they also build meaningful relationships with students, teachers, families, and the community. Our School Resource Officers can be seen monitoring school buildings, providing security on the sidelines of athletic events, visiting classrooms, mentoring students, and simply being a trusted, positive presence throughout the school day. They model integrity, service, and leadership; advancing the mission of Auburn City Schools. ACS is thankful for the quality men and women in uniform who work in our schools!

Auburn High School proudly welcomes Ashley Parnell as the new Head Volleyball Coach. Coach Parnell is taking over for Brian Wheatley, who was recently named the Assistant Volleyball Coach at Appalachian State in Boone, North Carolina. From being State Champion and Team Captain at Jacksonville High School to a collegiate leader at Jacksonville State University, she most recently served as our Varsity Assistant Volleyball Coach. Coach Parnell has already been a vital part of the AHS Volleyball family; now she’s ready to lead the Tigers. Her passion for developing student-athletes and drive for excellence make her the perfect fit to guide the program forward. Please help us in congratulating Coach Parnell, as we look forward to an exciting season this fall!

Creekside Elementary celebrated Valentine’s Day in the most active and heartwarming way with their special event, “Bring Someone Special to PE”. Loved ones joined their students in the gym for an afternoon full of fun, playing dodgeball, pickleball, and basketball side by side. Laughter rang out as students and their loved ones teamed up to make precious memories. At the end of each session, students shared a sweet Valentine’s surprise by presenting their special guest with a flower and some chocolate on the way out. What a wonderful way to combine fitness, fun, and a little Valentine’s Day love!

Last night, Auburn City Schools had the privilege of recognizing some truly outstanding individuals during the February Board of Education meeting. AHS junior, Madison Whidden, captured Gold in the 500 Yard Freestyle at the AHSAA 2025 State Swim Meet with an incredible time of 5:09.44! Madison’s hard work and relentless determination continue to produce stellar results in the pool. ACS is so proud of this amazing accomplishment. Auburn Junior High School’s Laura Jeidy-Brown was named an Apple Distinguished Educator (one of only 400 educators worldwide and 100 in the United States to earn this prestigious honor this year). This recognition highlights her leadership, innovation, and commitment to creating meaningful, personalized learning experiences for students. What an extraordinary achievement. NBCT: ACS is proud to celebrate nine ACS educators who earned National Board Certification this year, and the three who maintained their certification. This is one of the highest honors in the teaching profession and reflects an unwavering commitment to student success and instructional excellence across our district. ACS is stronger because of these dedicated educators. From state champions to global and national professional recognition, ACS continues to shine!

AHS, AJHS, and ESS band students represented Auburn City Schools at the District VI High School and Middle School Symphonic Honor Bands this weekend. Their dedication, discipline, and musical excellence continue to shine. ACS is incredibly proud of the way these young musicians rise to every challenge and do the hard things so well. Keep making beautiful music!

OCS loves our SROs! Help us say thank you and wish them a happy National SRO Appreciation Day! From high-fives in the morning to ensuring a safe environment for learning, our SROs are an essential part of the Opelika family. We are incredibly proud of this team and the relationships they build with our Opelika City Schools youth every single day. Happy National SRO Appreciation Day!

Congratulations to Titus Elliott and Blakely Parish for being named Mr. and Miss Opelika High School 2026. As this year’s winners, Titus and Blakely will receive scholarships and proudly serve as OHS Emissaries during their senior year, representing Opelika High School at special events and throughout our community.
We also congratulate:
Taylore Phillips – Miss Sophomore Class
Emunah Weaver – Miss Freshman Class.
Miss OHS First Runner-Up – Irem Uysal
Miss OHS Second Runner-Up – Sadie Rainey
Mr. OHS First Runner-Up – Ericson Thomas
Mr. OHS Second Runner-Up – Brady McNally
We are proud of these outstanding students who exemplify excellence and leadership.

Congratulations OHS Boys Basketball! Area Champs! GO DAWGS!

Five Opelika students were among 27 other students who competed in the Lee County Spelling Bee. They did a fantastic job. We’re proud of the hard work and courage it takes to step onto that stage. Way to represent Opelika!

Congratulations to Jasmine Smith on signing with Southern Union State Community College to compete in flag football.

Congratulations to Karly Phatsadavong on signing with Faulkner University to continue her golf career!

Mrs. Richards’ class has been learning about the postal service. They have learned how to write a friend a letter/note card, how to address the envelope, and how to add a stamp to the top right corner so the postal worker will deliver it! They are also enjoying writing letters to friends in Ms. Sanders and Mrs. Ennis’ classroom. They have written a special letter to their parents. Students met the mailman, Mr. Jason who delivers and picks up the mail at LSA. He took their letters and will send them on their journey to Auburn to Montgomery and then back home to their parents. We appreciate Mr. Jason taking a little time out of his day to talk to us about his job and showing us his mail truck.

We were proud to celebrate our recent Honor Society Inductions and recognize the hard work, character, and commitment of our Upper School students. On Friday, we welcomed families to campus to honor students who met the rigorous eligibility requirements for membership across 11 distinguished honor societies, including:
National Junior Honor Society
National Honor Society
English
Rho Kappa (Social Studies)
Mu Alpha Theta (Math)
Science
Spanish
Thespian
Tri-M Music
National Athletic
National Art
These students exemplify scholarship, leadership, service, and excellence both inside and outside the classroom. Congratulations to all of our inductees! We are so proud of you and grateful to celebrate this milestone with your families!

With February being National Children’s Dental Health Month, LSA Grandparent Dr. Jim Phillips from Village Dental visited Lee-Scott to teach about the importance of good dental hygiene. He shared helpful tips on keeping our teeth healthy and strong, and our students loved learning from a real dentist right here in Auburn. We are grateful for community members who invest in our students and make learning come alive!

What a beautiful evening at Trinity’s State of School Banquet! We enjoyed wonderful fellowship and food as we celebrated and gave thanks for our school’s leadership, dedicated teachers, and our valued partnership with Trinity Presbyterian Church. We were grateful to hear from our School Board Chairman, Mr. Chris Clark, and to be introduced to our new Head of School, Dr. Norman H. Godwin. We are so encouraged by the direction of our school and excited for all that the Lord has in store. God is so good. “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” — Psalm 126:3

Our KICKS (Kids Involved in Community Kindness & Service) Club had their first meeting, and a great time was had by all. Students learned what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ while building leadership skills and discovering how they can make a real difference in our school and community. They packed Valentine gift bags for Big House, talked about food insecurity and the East AL Food Bank, and explored how to promote our upcoming food drive. We also focused on leadership — practicing public speaking, introductions, and even using the teleprompter for our morning news scripts. Please keep practicing those scripts at home so everyone is ready to step in when needed. We’re so proud of their servant hearts and growing confidence!

The Lee-Scott Ambassadors had a field trip to Auburn University to meet with the War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen. Our students enjoyed time getting to ask questions about the college experience, get advice about interviews, and practice giving a tour. The ambassadors had five minutes to learn as many Auburn facts as they could. Then they gave a tour from the Student Center to Hey Day market! We want to thank the War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen for giving us so much of their time!

Congratulations to our Varsity Boys Basketball Team on a fantastic season and a Final Four finish! We are proud of the hard work, sportsmanship, and Christ-like example you set for future TCS players. We will miss our seniors and are so grateful for their leadership and dedication. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

As part of their study of insect life cycles, each group designed a unique insect from start to finish! They carefully molded and painted every stage of the life cycle, gave their insect a creative name, and added so many thoughtful, detailed touches to make each one special. The presentations were just as impressive as the projects — fun, informative, and full of imagination! We loved seeing science and creativity come together in such an exciting way. Great job, 4th grade!

We had the joy of honoring our seniors and their families for their years of dedication, commitment, and heart poured into our school and athletic department. What a special evening celebrating these student-athletes! Both our boys and girls teams closed the night with wins, finishing strong and earning their spots in the playoffs!

Mr. Justin Carlson and Kaitlyn from the Potting Shed joined Mrs. Gibbs’ second grade class and taught them how to propagate a Pothos plant. The students learned to take a cutting from a healthy vine, making sure to cut at least one leaf and a node, then plant it into moist soil. Students will continue to care for their newly propagated Pothos plant over the next several months.

We are so proud of Parker Dobbs for his outstanding performance at the Lee County Spelling Bee! Representing Lee-Scott Academy, Parker placed an incredible 4th out of 27 spellers!
Congratulations on your hard work, Parker! Your Lee-Scott family is extremely proud of you!

Mrs. Bass’ 2nd grade class celebrated National Bubble Gum Day. Students enjoyed reading Pop! The Invention of Bubble Gum. They learned all about the perseverance of inventor Walter Diemer. Students discussed that when we make mistakes we learn better ways of doing things. Students used review skills like fact and opinion, cause and effect, and sequencing to discuss the book. Students also sampled five different types of gum and graphed their favorites. In the afternoon, Mrs. Bass read On Account of Bubble Gum which tickled students PINK! In music, Mrs. Redden, taught the children about breath control using balloons. She also found a catchy little bubble gum song that was certain to STICK in their heads! Second graders also wrote about bubble gum adventures, created some bubble gum art, enjoyed a yummy snack, and had a ball!

Kindergarten was full of color and creativity as our students designed their own Mardi Gras masks. We celebrated with joy and sparkle, knowing that tomorrow we turn our hearts toward Jesus as we begin the beautiful season of Lent on Ash Wednesday. From celebration to reflection — growing in faith every step of the way.

C is for Chicken, and E if for Egg. While learning about the letter C and E, our K4 friends had some special guests join us today to tell us all about chickens!

Congratulations to all of our band students who were selected for All-State and District Honor Bands! We are so proud of your hard work, dedication, and the God-given talents you continue to develop and share. “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10

Balance. Strength. Confidence. Our PE gymnastics competition was full of amazing effort and school spirit!

Our 7th Grade Christian Worldview students did a fantastic job presenting on God’s Amazing Design of Animals! Through their research and presentations, they highlighted the intricacy and intentional design found in creation—powerful reminders that only God could design something so amazing. “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” — Psalm 19:1 So proud of their boldness and faith!

Our PreK4 hearts were bursting with joy! We celebrated Valentine’s Day the sweetest way — learning that God is love and we can share His love with everyone around us. From crafting special valentines to saying prayers for our friends, our little ones practiced loving like Jesus. Thank you, Saint Valentine, for reminding us that brave, faithful love changes the world!