Student Spotlights – June 2026

The East Samford School Math team recently earned an impressive 3rd place finish at the MATHCOUNTS State Competition in Montgomery. Going up against the top 12 schools from across Alabama, these seventh graders demonstrated efficient problem-solving skills and outstanding teamwork. ACS is proud of Jun Hoo Park, Eunyul Kim, Kelton Kaidun, and Rae Kwak for their hard work and achievement at the state level!

Cary Woods Elementary’s second graders enjoyed a day of learning at Storybook Farm. As part of an ongoing partnership, students engaged in hands-on learning in an outdoor setting to connect with nature in meaningful ways. They met several of the farm’s animals, including the horses (all named after beloved storybook characters), explored a variety of plants, and even challenged themselves on a canine obstacle course. From curious questions to adventurous play, it was a day full of discovery and real-world learning. Experiences like this help bring lessons to life and inspire a deeper appreciation for the world around us. Thank you to Storybook Farm for providing such a special opportunity for students!

Auburn High School came alive with culture, community, and celebration. From delicious international foods to vibrant performances and traditional clothing, the AHS cafeteria was filled with sights, sounds, and flavors from around the world. This event highlighted the rich cultural diversity within our school and the Auburn community by bringing students, families, and staff together to learn, connect, and celebrate what makes us unique. Thank you to everyone who participated, performed, and supported this amazing event!

Auburn City Schools proudly celebrated the induction of the 2025–26 National Technical Honor Society members at Auburn High School. The ceremony recognized students who demonstrated excellence in Career and Technical Education through outstanding achievement, leadership, service, and dedication. These students have gone above and beyond in the classroom and through their involvement in Career & Technical Student Organizations to earn this distinction. ACS is incredibly proud of each inductee and the student leaders who continue to set the standard for excellence at Auburn High School!

Auburn City Schools celebrated Built by School Breakfast Week by highlighting themed options like construction zone croissant sandwiches and builders’ berry açaí bowls, while emphasizing the importance of starting the day with a nutritious breakfast. During testing week, school breakfast plays an especially important role by fueling students’ brains, supporting focus, memory, and stamina when they need it most. Research shows that students who eat school breakfast demonstrate improved academic performance, higher test scores, better concentration, and fewer negative classroom behaviors. A heartfelt thank-you to our dedicated Child Nutrition team, whose hard work and commitment make these meals and student success possible every day!

Auburn High School Indoor Percussion delivered an incredible preview show last night in the competition gym. From standout solo and ensemble performances to a powerful sneak peek of their 2026 production, “Stay,” the evening showcased the hard work, talent, and dedication of these outstanding musicians. Elementary-aged students from the inaugural Percussion Camp at AHS also performed on bucket drums, highlighting the impact current AHS Band Members are having on the future of music in ACS. Guests enjoyed a silent auction in support of the ensemble as they prepared to travel to the WGI World Championships in Dayton, Ohio. The energy in the gym made it clear just how strong this program is. Coming off a 1st place finish in Alpharetta, their first time competing in Open Class, this group continues to build amazing momentum. ACS is proud of AHS Indoor Percussion and can’t wait to see what’s ahead. Thank you to everyone who came out to support!

Woodland Pines Elementary’s Multicultural Family Fun Night was a celebration of diversity, community, and togetherness. Families enjoyed a “tour around the world,” exploring different cultures while creating lasting memories. While on their journey, guests had their passports stamped at each stop, enjoying homemade delicacies such as Chicken Arayes from Jordan and Fairy Bread from New Zealand. Every student in attendance received a picture book of their choice and a bookmark to take home. It was a night filled with learning, laughter, and connection. Thank you to all the families, staff, and volunteers who made this event so special. It is wonderful seeing our community come together to celebrate cultures from around the world!

Auburn High’s Varsity Girls Cross-Country Team celebrated a historic 2025 season, officially receiving their AHSAA 7A State Championship rings this morning, marking their third straight title and eighth in nine years. Junior Sarah Tole led the Tigers with an 18:12 runner-up finish, leading a disciplined squad that placed all five scorers inside the top 25. Auburn’s state lineup blended veterans and rising stars. Natalie Schoonover (19:23) and Audrey Erath (19:28) provided seasoned strength at the two-three spots, while Rylee Plexico (19:51) and Abby Merner (20:04) sealed AHS’s championship total score. Freshman Siobhan Keane (20:15) and sophomore Merrill Kaplowitz (20:26) ran stride-for-stride as key displacers, followed closely by Adeline Clark (20:53), Bella Crow (21:08), and Abigail Hardee (21:24). The Tigers were in 3rd place at the 2-mile mark, but in the final mile, Schoonover passed five runners, Merner three, and Erath two to secure the title. Alternates Bailey Clanton and Holly McNeal rounded out the championship roster. This morning was a special moment of recognition. The team embodied excellence, grit, and unity all season long. Surrounded by coaches, teammates, and supporters, these student-athletes were honored for their commitment to greatness. That commitment is now forever symbolized in gold. Auburn XC’s motto, “Claws Up,” defined a team that stayed fearless to the finish!

Auburn City Schools is proud to recognize Chris Deason, Choir Teacher at East Samford School, for being selected as a recipient of the Alabama Education Retirees Association (AERA) Scholarship this year. This prestigious scholarship supports outstanding educators across Alabama who demonstrate excellence and a commitment to growth in their field. Each year, only ten educators statewide are chosen, one from each AERA district, to receive this honor. Mr. Deason’s dedication to music education and passion for inspiring students truly set him apart. ACS is incredibly fortunate to have educators like him shaping the future of students!

Second graders celebrated Earth Day with outdoor learning at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center on North College. Throughout the week, students explored scenic trails, created unique necklaces from recycled materials, and learned about the native animals that call Alabama home. These hands-on experiences brought classroom learning to life. ACS is fortunate to have so many incredible resources in our community. A special thank you to the amazing staff at the Preserve for sharing their expertise and time, and to our dedicated teacher chaperones and aids for helping make this experience possible for our students.

Both Boys and Girls Auburn High School Soccer teams won the Area 4 title! Girls: 6-0 area record with 48 goals scored and 0 conceded. Boys: 6-0 area record with strong finishes in every match. This is an impressive run for both programs and a testament to the hard work put in on and off the pitch. Both teams have earned the right to host the first round of the playoffs in Duck Samford Stadium later this month!

Recently recognized by the Auburn City Schools Board of Education, these 14 outstanding educators represent the very best of the teaching profession by demonstrating excellence in the classroom, a commitment to student success, and a passion for shaping the future!
Please join us in congratulating our incredible honorees:
(Pictured L to R)
⭐️Haleigh Rusk (Creekside Elementary)
⭐️Catherine Riley (East Samford School)
⭐️Mojen Lau (Auburn Early Education Center)
⭐️Kaila Sutterfield (Cary Woods Elementary)
⭐️Tina Williams (Yarbrough Elementary)
⭐️Becky Funderburk (Pick Elementary)
⭐️Jenny Galimore – ACS Elementary Teacher of the Year (Dean Road Elementary)
⭐️Naomi Bergh – ACS Secondary Teacher of the Year (Auburn High School)
⭐️Patience Melius (Woodland Pines Elementary)
⭐️Daly Diaz (Richland Elementary)
⭐️Lucy Gilmore (Wrights Mill Road Elementary)
⭐️Walter Nash (Auburn Junior High School)
⭐️Jeramiya Kitchens (Drake Middle School)
⭐️Jim Plaster (Ogletree Elementary)
Thank you for the impact each of you has on students’ lives every day!

This morning, Auburn City Schools kindergartners had an oinktastic experience at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center/ Students attended Peppa Pig: My First Concert, an interactive performance designed to introduce young audiences to the joy of live orchestral music. Through familiar characters and engaging storytelling, students explored how instruments sound and work in harmony while also making a little music of their own. ACS is grateful for the continued partnership with the GPAC, which provides meaningful performing arts experiences that inspire creativity and curiosity in our youngest learners!

Our first ever Eagle Challenge was a huge success. Students came together with high energy, strong teamwork, and great sportsmanship all day long. Tug of war brought competition and the intensity—what a battle. Our Together Teams also enjoyed time of fellowship over lunch. Congratulations to the Megarians for taking 1st place and to the Cretans for earning the Sportsmanship Award for their outstanding character and encouragement! “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” Romans 11:36

A meaningful trip to the Contemplative Art Project for TCS. Our students enjoyed experiencing thoughtfully curated artwork, engaging in rich discussion, and exploring the deeper themes and religious symbolism woven throughout each piece. Art has a beautiful way of slowing us down, inviting reflection, and pointing our hearts toward truth.

Trinity Christian School Celebrates our baseball seniors. We are so grateful for the commitment, leadership, and heart you’ve poured into TCS over the years. You have represented our school so well both on and off the field! A big thank you to the families for your constant support and encouragement along the way—we appreciate you so much! “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

What a season for our Varsity Girls Soccer team. Final Four finish and an unforgettable run—well done, Lady Eagles! We loved sending them off with a school-wide walkout full of spirit and support. Thank you to our players, coaches, and parents for your hard work, dedication, and encouragement all season long—we are so proud!

Our 3rd grade students did an amazing job bringing the story of Moses and the 10 Plagues to life in their Egyptian Play. Families enjoyed this special performance, followed by a traditional Passover Seder where students shared the prayers, customs, and symbolism of this meaningful meal. What a beautiful day of faith, learning, and fellowship. “And on that day you shall tell your son, ‘It is because of what the Lord did for me when I came out of Egypt.’”— Exodus 13:8

Our 4th grade class stepped back in time for a day like the Romans. From learning to wear togas to creating mosaics, designing shields, building Roman architecture, and competing in games, it was a day full of hands-on fun. This experience truly brought Ancient Rome to life!

Senior Rhetoric Day is a powerful reflection of our mission in action. Over the course of the year, our seniors dive deeply into research, engage with experts, collaborate with advisors, and refine their writing through multiple drafts. From there, their work is transformed into a polished speech—carefully edited, memorized, and practiced—before being presented on this special day. We are so proud of the dedication, growth, and excellence shown by our seniors. Well done and congratulations!