Student Spotlights – March 2026

Yarbrough Elementary School brought the Olympic spirit to life with their Winter Olympics Pep Rally! The excitement kicked off as Principal Mrs. Lisa Wheatley “lit the Olympic flame,” officially starting the games. Students rotated through a variety of fun, winter-themed activities, including balancing inflatable globes, playing hockey with pool noodles, and tossing balls into buckets, all while cheering on their nests and showing incredible teamwork and school pride. It was an energetic, fun-filled afternoon full of learning, movement, and Yarbrough pride!

Approximately 100 Auburn High School JROTC Cadets took part in a high-visibility training event at the Auburn University Army ROTC Rappel Tower and obstacle course! This opportunity allowed Cadets to demonstrate exceptional discipline, teamwork, and military bearing while training in a challenging, real-world environment and engaging with senior U.S. Army leadership. Their performance reflected the high standards of excellence upheld by the AHS Tiger Battalion. ACS is proud of Maj. Wiersma and 1SG Audaine, and how the Cadets represented with respect and distinction!

Mrs. Weeks’ first graders had an unforgettable World Read Aloud Day with a virtual visit from author Aria Mia Loberti, who read her heartwarming picture book, I Am Ingrid: The Adventures of the World’s Greatest Guide Dog! The story follows Ingrid, a fabulous guide dog who trains hard, works as a team with her person, and goes on adventures around the world, teaching kids what guide dogs do and how they support their humans every day. This visit was extra special for one of Mrs. Weeks’ students who has a vision impairment. Hearing the book read by the author herself brought the powerful bond between guide dogs and people to life in a truly meaningful way. Thank you, Mrs. Weeks, and thank you, Aria Mia Loberti, for inspiring our young readers and celebrating the joy of literacy and inclusion.

Seventh graders from East Samford School walked on sacred ground at Pine Hill Cemetery for a field trip that brought history, art, and discovery together. As part of Mrs. Oliver’s art classes, students are learning to use photography to document stories inscribed in stone, most notably the grave marker of Gatsy Rice, a formerly enslaved woman whose name stands alone as the only African American woman identified by name in the cemetery. Her story remains preserved in bronze and memory, sparking reflection, curiosity, and in-depth conversation among the students. This experience connects directly to an earlier author visit with Sam Hendrix, Auburn resident and author of “Auburn: A History in Street Names.” Students discovered how many of Auburn’s street names can be traced back to the individuals remembered at Pine Hill Cemetery. Students learned that history isn’t just in textbooks, but that stories are all around them when they slow down and look closely!

Auburn City Schools is proud to recognize the outstanding Auburn High School students who have been nominated by U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville to attend one of the United States Service Academies as part of the Class of 2030. These students exemplify leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to service, all qualities that reflect the very best of ACS.
Auburn High School Nominees:
Campbell Christian Hooks (Class of 2026)
Molly Shilo Seidman (Class of 2026)
Layton Matthew Towery (Class of 2024 / not pictured)
Savannah Grace Trejo (Class of 2025 / Naval Academy Prep School / not pictured)
Sen. Tuberville announced the nominations of 47 Alabama students to the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Naval Academy. Please join us in congratulating these students and their families on this incredible achievement and wishing them continued success as they pursue paths of service and leadership!

Auburn City Schools elementary students have the incredible opportunity to welcome award-winning author and illustrator Shanda (rhymes with panda!) McCloskey to several campuses. Shanda shared how her love of research, from robots to music to letter writing, inspires the stories she creates, all centered on following your light and your passions. Students enjoyed a special read-aloud of her book DOLL-E 1.0, then learned how to draw robots alongside the author herself. ACS thanks Dr. Mark Wilson, the Director of the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities, for sponsoring this author visit. It was a creative and inspiring experience that encouraged students to use their imaginations!

Seventh graders at East Samford School took part in an impactful learning experience as the COACH Center for Opioid Research, Education & Outreach shared critical information on drug awareness! Through engaging discussion led by Dr. Brent Fox from COACH, students learned about the real risks and long-term consequences of substance use. Students and teachers also participated in a hands-on activity using impairment goggles, helping them better understand how drugs can alter perception and decision-making. By equipping students with knowledge and awareness, we’re helping them make informed, healthy choices, now and in the future!

ACS celebrates the hard work, dedication, and determination of our Auburn City Schools student-athletes as they take the next step in their academic and athletic journeys! From the classroom to the field, court, course, and beyond, these students have represented Auburn with excellence, and now they’re headed to compete at the next level. Congratulations to the 39 signees across multiple sports, including: Women’s Golf, Track & Field, Lacrosse, Esports, Basketball, Tennis, Soccer, Softball, Baseball, Flag Football, and Football. The ACS family is proud of each signee and can’t wait to see what the future holds!

First graders at Auburn Early Education Center are 101 days smarter and seeing spots as they celebrated with a 101 Dalmatians theme, with Cruella de Vil lurking in the halls. The theme reached far beyond the costumes, as students incorporated Dalmatians into art projects, musical activities, and hands-on classroom lessons throughout the day. From creating spotted masterpieces and counting collections of 101, to singing, moving, and learning together, the morning has been filled with creativity, collaboration, and joyful learning. ACS loves celebrating milestones that make school memorable, while keeping students engaged and excited about learning!

The Auburn High Boys Bowling team is headed to the 2026 AHSAA State Bowling Championship in Mobile! The Tigers will now face off against Tuscaloosa County after securing the No. 2 ranking in the South Regional tournament with victories over McGill-Toolen, Foley, Stanhope Elmore, and Thompson!

Creekside Elementary’s Multicultural Family Night was a huge success, bringing families together to celebrate the many cultures that make the CES community so special! With more than a dozen countries represented, students and families explored the world through games, hands-on activities, music, and delicious food from around the globe. Events like this help students build understanding, appreciation, and connection across cultures, showcasing how shared experiences can foster curiosity and respect for classmates. ACS thanks all the families, staff, and volunteers who helped make the evening memorable!

Students at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School have been cruising through history with an unforgettable Titanic learning experience! From a virtual visit with Lauren Tarshis, author of the beloved I Survived series, to hands-on activities during resource classes, like submerging their hands in ice water to understand the frigid conditions of the North Atlantic, students experienced history in powerful and meaningful ways. The week even included a touch of elegance, as students enjoyed the ambience of fine dining by candlelight. Chef John Everson’s Food & Beverage students from Auburn High School baked, prepped, and served brownies complete with a garnish of fresh mint, while Mrs. Chavis beautifully set the mood with live violin music. The week of educational magic was made possible through a FACES grant written by Assistant Principal Amber Goolsby, showcasing the incredible impact of innovation and community support!

The Auburn Choral Company wowed audiences with preview performances of their spring show productions. From the vocal performances to the amazing choreography, our singers brought incredible energy to the stage. Varsity Singers took the audience on a journey filled with passion and precision with “The Ascent.” Èlan provided heart and humor with their show “Country-Ella.” And Men at Work rocked the house with their Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-themed show, complete with cinema-caliber costumes that had everyone cheering!

What started in 2016 as a pop-up style coffee shop run by students with special needs at Auburn High School has grown into something truly special! Tiger Mochas officially accepts card payments, including all major cards and Apple/Mobile Pay! Thanks to a FACES grant, the program purchased card readers, making the coffee shop more efficient and better aligned with real-world workplace skills. The impact was immediate, with two lines running this morning to keep up with the demand! This milestone represents more than convenience, as it’s about expanding opportunities and authentic work-based learning for students. Huge thanks to everyone who helped make this possible:
Mr. Wes Gordon, FACES, Mrs. Tanaka, Dr. Moore, Dr. Baugh, Ms. Lundey, Mr. Von Gal, and the incredible leadership of Mr. Matt Wilson and Mr. Trent Meigs, along with the entire Tiger Mochas staff.

Elementary schools across Auburn City Schools have been hosting Invention Conventions. They gathered at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School and showcased the creativity and problem-solving skills of its students. Led by WMR Enrichment Teacher Dr. Jessie Matthews, students not only designed original inventions but also presented their ideas to judges and families with confidence. Judges representing Auburn University and the Alabama State Department of Education were impressed as students shared inventions like a “Lace Lock” to keep shoelaces tied, “Headache Helpers,” and a “Quick-Chip” dispenser. These events provide students with the opportunity to identify real-world problems and develop essential soft skills, such as public speaking and presentation. From imagination to innovation, students are learning that they can make a difference!

Maggie Homburger, a 4th grader at Yarbrough Elementary, was recently presented the “Character in Action” award from Lee County Family Court Judge Mike Fellows for exuding kindness. “Maggie has this light and kindness about her that just brings so much delight to our classroom. She is a friend to all and finds ways to help others without being asked. A new student joined the class, and without being asked, she included the student in group work, recess, and PE. Maggie truly goes the extra mile and enjoys spreading kindness.” – Heather Cowell and Jennie Glagola, 4th-grade teachers at YES. ACS is proud of Maggie for making the world around her a better place!

Mrs. Kichler and Mrs. Penland’s PreK-4 class embraced the dropping temperatures to discover hidden treasures as ice transformed from solid to liquid—hands-on learning in action!

First grade creativity on full display! Our artists explored chalk pastels inspired by the colorful, whimsical Laurel Burch cats. So much imagination, texture, and joy in every piece!

Our 2nd graders explored their Solar System Unit through a fun mix of writing, crafts, and hands on exploration! They created marshmallow constellations, Oreo moon phases, chalk pastel galaxy art, and even crafted astronaut helmets from paper bags.

Our older students got hands-on with biology, building candy DNA replicas. This activity was designed by Mrs. Kasey to make learning engaging and meaningful.

At The Oaks we believe leadership is built through action. High school students develop leadership skills by leading chapel small groups, serving in meaningful service projects, mentoring younger students, and growing through athletics. These experiences, along with others, prepare students to lead with confidence, character, and compassion.

As a Light Lab extension, students built balloon-powered cars and explored Newton’s 3rd Law of Motion—for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. The stored (potential) energy in the balloon converted to kinetic energy as air escaped, propelling each car forward. Students designed their own models and raced them to see which went the fastest and farthest!

Congratulations to our 2025–2026 SMCS Spelling Bee Winner, Jihoon Seong, and our Runner-Up, Leanora Larkins! We are so proud of your hard work, confidence, and impressive spelling skills. Way to represent St. Michael Catholic School! A big round of applause for our SMCS Class Spelling Bee Winners! These students showed determination, focus, and a love of learning as they competed at the class level. We are so proud of each of you—congratulations on a job well done!

Our Oaks JV Boys Basketball Team finished their regular season with a 53-28 win vs Trinity Christian and an overall record of 15-4. They will now move on to the AISA State Tournament as the 3rd overall seed. Congratulations to our JV Boys Team on this accomplishment!

95 young musicians (ages 5–12), full of energy, were looking to find the right rhythm during this hands-on percussion experience led by AHS band directors and students. Campers explored percussion fundamentals and made music together, all while supporting a new opportunity for band students. Proceeds from the camp will help support the AHS Indoor Percussion Ensemble as they prepare to head to the World Championships in Dayton, Ohio, this spring, marking the first time in school history that AHS has qualified for this prestigious national event! ACS thanks you to our students, band directors, families, and community for making this camp such a success!

During Catholic Schools Week, we celebrate vocations and the priests who have helped shape St. Michael Catholic School since its founding. Their faithful example continues to inspire our students to know, love, and serve God—now and in the future. THANK YOU ~ Msgr. Farmer, Fr. Gabe, and Fr. Plessala, for your faithful guidance and spiritual leadership.

Our elementary students explored weather at Oxbow Meadows, one of many memorable field trips this year, including the Auburn Raptor Center, Choctafaula Pumpkin Patch, and the Springer Opera House. These hands-on experiences deepen understanding and spark curiosity.

100 days smarter and a whole lot crunchier! Our Pre-K friends celebrated the 100th Day of School by counting, sorting, and snacking on Chex Mix fun!

Mrs. Amanda’s physical science class explored kinetic and potential energy through lab stations and applied their knowledge in simple machines escape room. Students extended their learning by designing Rube Goldberg machines and creating video advertisements to demonstrate the function and purpose of simple machines.

Where learning is fun and faith grows: Phonics with Read Well, numbers with Horizon Math, multi-sensory creative writing, small group instruction, outdoor play & field trips, songs and chants bring learning to life, weekly Scripture memorization, and Ms. Joanna makes every day exciting and joyful!

Opelika City Schools will open kindergarten registration for the 2026–2027 school year beginning Monday, March 30, through Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Families with children who will be five years old on or before September 1, 2026, are encouraged to complete registration during this window to ensure a smooth start to the school year. Kindergarten registration allows families to provide required documentation, verify residency, and take the first step in enrolling their child in Opelika City Schools, where students are supported through engaging instruction, caring educators, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Items Needed for Kindergarten Registration:
Birth certificate, Certificate of immunization, Child’s Social Security card, Proof of residency, Photo ID
Registration information and access are available by scanning the QR code on district materials or by visiting www.opelikaschools.org. Families who need assistance or have questions may contact Opelika City Schools at 334-745-9700. Opelika City Schools looks forward to welcoming the Class of 2039 and partnering with families as students begin their educational journey.

Our 5th graders did an amazing job presenting their Feudal Manor projects to our K–4th grade students. They explained each part of the manor, how it functioned, and the different people who lived there — and even fielded some fantastic questions from their audience! Way to go, 5th grade!

Opelika City Schools proudly recognized the dedicated members of the Opelika City Schools Board of Education for their service and leadership during School Board Recognition Month. Board members generously give their time, expertise, and guidance to help shape the vision and future of Opelika City Schools. Their commitment supports students, employees, and district leadership while ensuring strong governance and accountability for the community.
The Opelika City Schools Board of Education includes:
Kevin Royal, M.D., Chairman
Antione Harvis, Vice Chairman
Patsy Boyd Parker
Tipi Miller
Pearson Alsobrook
Opelika City Schools extends sincere appreciation to each board member for their continued support of public education and their unwavering dedication to serving the Opelika community.

Eighth-grade students from Opelika Middle School recently toured Opelika High School as part of a districtwide effort to support a smooth and successful transition from middle school to high school. During the visit, students explored Career Technical Education programs, learned about academic and elective offerings, and gained insight into the opportunities available as they prepare for ninth grade. Counselors and staff provided guidance on course pathways, graduation planning, and extracurricular involvement. Opelika City Schools prioritizes intentional transition experiences to help students feel confident, informed, and prepared as they take the next step in their educational journey.

We were grateful to spend time in fellowship with our pastors and thank them for partnering with us in shepherding our students to Christ. Chapel, breakfast, and a school tour made for a meaningful time together.

Students engage in learning…from head to toe…literally! Our 10th grade anatomy class is drawing life-size muscular systems to better understand how our bodies are designed.

Our 3rd graders experienced a beautiful reminder that we can worship God in any language! While studying Helen Keller, they welcomed a special guest and learned worship songs in ASL along with common everyday signs. It was a powerful way to see how praise and prayer go beyond spoken words. “Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim His salvation day after day.” – 1 Chronicles 16:23

Trinity’s College & Career Fair connected upper school students and homeschool families with 12 colleges and 17 career professionals! We are grateful for the local experts in their fields who poured into the next generation and helped students explore God’s calling for their future. “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Proverbs 16:3

Our third graders recently met Mr. Kemmer and his seeing-eye dog, Carl, as part of their study of Louis Braille. They learned how God provides wonderful ways for those without sight to “see” differently and were reminded to be thankful for the senses God has given us. “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” — Psalm 107:1

With the Winter Olympics under way, our Lower School students dove into the science behind ice hockey! After learning how physics plays a role in the sport, students took on a hands-on STEM challenge: designing and building their own hockey nets and sticks. The best part? Testing their creations with an exciting game of table hockey! Engineering, problem-solving, teamwork and lots of fun were all part of the win!

Congratulations to our very own Mrs. Basgier for being selected to serve on the Alabama Art Education Association Board. Mrs. Basgier will serve as the Virtual Art Competition of Alabama Chair and the Independent Schools Chair/Representative. We are very proud of Mrs. Basgier and how she represents Lee-Scott Academy!

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

Senior government students in Mrs. Chancey‘s class recently participated in an activity to introduce different types of governments. Students worked in groups to construct a straw tower making their decisions based on the type of government they were assigned. This activity simulated how different forms of government impact collaboration and efficiency.

Lee-Scott Academy is proud to celebrate 6th grader Parker Dobbs, the AISA State Spelling Bee Champion! Parker advanced through several rounds competing against 45 other contestants at the state level, confidently spelling his winning word “octave” to secure the title. We are so thankful for the dedication and support of the Dobbs family, who invested countless hours in preparation for this achievement. Please join us in congratulating Parker and his family on this incredible honor!

Our 6th graders stepped back in time to the Roaring 20’s in their study of history. They learned about stocks from Mr. Bright, paraded through the Lower School hall, and even learned how to dance the Charleston!

Our K4 students celebrated the 101st day of school with all sorts of fun activities centered around the number! They counted to 101, colored 101 Dalmatian spots, did 101 exercises, created a Dalmatian, and wrote and illustrated stories about our dogs!

Mrs. Sentenn’s 7th grade students wrote personal narratives based on one word that they want to focus on in 2026 to reach their goals! They talked about the power of words from a Biblical worldview, brainstormed, typed their drafts, edited, and then handwrote their final copy! To top it off, they created wall art with their words to remind them each day of their goals!

Opelika High School students enrolled in Foundations of Health Science recently visited Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Auburn to participate in Mini Medical School and Stop the Bleed training. The experience immersed students in the fields of osteopathic medicine, nutrition, wellness, and emergency response, providing hands-on exposure to healthcare careers and life-saving skills. Opelika City Schools extends appreciation to Dr. Philip Snider and VCOM’s second-year medical students for mentoring participants and helping inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Opelika Pre-K is proud to be part of Alabama’s nationally recognized First Class Pre-K program. Our award-winning initiative provides a nurturing environment with an innovative curriculum designed to prepare your child for kindergarten and beyond.
WHO CAN ENROLL?
Open to all children who are 4 years old on or before September 2, 2026.* (Children eligible for kindergarten are ineligible.)
Students must reside within Opelika city limits.
Participation is free of charge.
No child will be denied participation based on income, sex, race, color, national origin, or disability.
IMPORTANT DATES:
Pre-Registration Opens: January 15, 2026
Random Drawing: March 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Opelika High School.
Acceptance Notices: Emailed beginning April 16, 2026.
PROGRAM ACCEPTANCE:
Acceptance is strictly through a random drawing on March 12 at 10 a.m. at Opelika High School. Parents and guardians do not have to be present at the drawing.
HOW TO APPLY: Go online to: https://prek.alaceed.alabama.gov/ to complete the Pre-Registration Form. For assistance, contact OCS Pre-K at 334-741-5623.

On January 20, 2026, the Opelika City Council approved a resolution for a project agreement between the City of Opelika and the Opelika City Board of Education to expand and improve Fox Run School in response to projected residential and population growth across the city and county over the next decade. Opelika City Schools is one of 16 school systems in the State of Alabama to experience growth based on increased enrollment. The project will increase Fox Run’s capacity from 410 students in 28 classrooms to approximately 1,200 students in 59 classrooms, creating space to bring all Opelika fifth and sixth-grade students onto a single campus. The collaborative effort ensures adequate instructional space for current and future students amid sustained community growth. Construction is scheduled to begin in late May 2026 and is expected to take approximately 14 months to complete. The estimated $40 million cost will be jointly and equally funded through the City of Opelika and Opelika City Board of Education’s cash reserves. Beginning with the 2027 school year, Fox Run will serve all fifth and sixth-grade Opelika students. The Fox Run project marks a proactive step toward managing population growth while continuing to strengthen the city’s educational infrastructure. The joint investment underscores the importance of strategic planning and community partnership.

Award-winning children’s author and illustrator Shanda McCloskey visited Opelika City Schools intermediate schools through a valued partnership with Auburn University. During her visit, McCloskey engaged students with a reading from her book Doll-E 1.0 and shared insights into storytelling, creativity, and illustration. Students also participated in interactive discussions about technology and imagination, culminating in a collaborative robot drawing experience. Opelika City Schools is grateful for Auburn University and community partners who help create meaningful enrichment opportunities that inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning among students.

The Opelika City Schools Board of Education proudly recognized the district’s 2025–2026 Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year during its January board meeting. Cecily Jacob of Southview Primary School was named Opelika City Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Bre-A’nna Comer of Opelika Middle School earned the title of Opelika City Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year. These two educators will represent Opelika City Schools at the district level as they compete for Alabama Teacher of the Year, showcasing excellence in instruction, leadership, and student impact. Opelika City Schools congratulates Ms. Jacob and Ms. Comer and thanks them for their dedication to students, families, and the school community.

We are proud to celebrate our LSA Upper School students who were selected for the Medal of Honor core value of Commitment! These students were nominated by their teachers for consistently showing dedication, responsibility, and perseverance in and out of the classroom. They lead by example and represent LSA so well!

We are incredibly grateful for our 3 amazing counselors at Lee-Scott Academy! Mrs. Pickens, Mrs. Royston, and Mrs. Payne make LSA a better place each and every day, and we are very thankful for the impact they have on our students!

Our senior basketball players took time today to honor the teachers who made an impact on their time at Lee-Scott. Each player dedicated their jersey to an educator who inspired, challenged, or supported them along the way! We are incredibly thankful for all our teachers for pouring into our students each and every day!

Our second grade friends in Mrs. Miller’s class put their manners into action! After learning about polite words, table etiquette, and kindness, they practiced everything they learned with a sweet little tea party. These students showed respect, patience, and good manners in such a fun way!

Congratulations to our students who competed in the AISA State Science Fair. Lee-Scott Academy had 15 students competing in 7 different projects. We had two projects earn medals in the state fair: “Inside a Generator” Collins Taylor & Cannon Ketchum, Reverse Engineering
“The Toaster Components” Austin Barron, Lizzy Gregory, & Ella Sheppard, Reverse Engineering
We are incredibly of all of our students’ hard work and dedication!