The bluff has been a classroom, playground, lunch spot, game field, and gathering place for Baysiders for more than 50 years. Students across all grades come to enjoy the open green space and the view of the bay each day.
OUR MISSION
Bayside’s mission is to prepare students to be successful both academically and in life. Our students will exhibit high character, a sense of responsibility, respect for self and others, and a commitment to excellence in all their endeavors.
ONE CAMPUS. ONE COMMUNITY.
Bayside Academy opened its doors in September 1970 and has been providing students with an exceptional education ever since. At Bayside, education goes beyond the basics of reading and writing and mathematics. From the moment our students arrive on campus, they find opportunities to flourish both inside and out of the classroom.
OVERLOOKING MOBILE BAY FOUNDED IN 1970
6 CORE VALUES: EXCELLENCE, INTEGRITY, COMMUNITY, RESPECT, RESPONSIBLITY, AND LEADERSHIP
APPROXIMATELY 820 ADMIRALS FROM PK3 TO 12TH GRADE
HOME OF THE ADMIRALS
Nestled on an oak-shaded bluff, Bayside Academy’s 22-acre campus was settled in 1837 by a retired sea captain. His Greek revival mansion withstood the tests of time, now sitting in the center of campus as our administrative complex.
GRADE LEVELS
PK3, PK, KINDERGARTEN
2 TEACHERS
IN EACH CLASSROOM (1 TEACHER & 1 ASSISTANT)
DAILY ENRICHMENT OFFERINGS
OUR SPECIALIZED INSTRUCTORS OFFER A NUMBER OF ENRICHMENT CLASSES ON A DAILY ROTATION:
• PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE)
• MUSIC
• LIBRARY
• SPANISH
• BALLET
SCIENCE & ART
BAYSIDE’S EARLY SCHOOL FEATURES A DEDICATED IN-HOUSE SCIENCE AND ART INSTRUCTOR, OFFERING SMALL CLASS INSTRUCTION WITH 6-9 STUDENTS. OUR PROGRAM INCLUDES ROBOTICS FOR ALL AGES.
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON EARLY CHILDHOOD AT BAYSIDE.
EARLY SCHOOL
At Bayside Academy, the adventure begins in our Early School, where play-based instruction sparks limitless learning beyond traditional methods. Our youngest Admirals explore and connect with the world around them on our picturesque campus, nestled on the shores of Mobile Bay.
THE REGGIO EMILIA APPROACH
Our Early School students learn through the renowned Reggio Emilia approach, which celebrates children’s natural curiosity and honors the fact that children learn best in a context that values student interest. Our teachers create an atmosphere that promotes open-ended, process-oriented discovery and exploration for each child. The Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms are designed and organized to facilitate learning.
WEEKLY ASSEMBLIES CELEBRATE STUDENTS & DEVELOP LEADERSHIP
INQUIRY AND PLAYBASED LEARNING
FOSTER CURIOSITY & CRITICAL THINKING
FREE CHOICE PLAY DEVELOPS STUDENTS’ EMOTIONAL & SOCIAL SKILLS
LEARN OUTDOORS
WE BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF PLAYING AND LEARNING OUTSIDE:
• MUD KITCHEN, NATURE EXCURSIONS, GARDEN, AND TRIPS TO THE BAY
• PLAYGROUND FOR RECESS
• WALKING FIELD TRIPS
• OUTDOOR DECK FOR ACTIVITIES
• SCREENED OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS FOR FRESH AIR AND NATURE IMMERSION
LOWER SCHOOL
In the Lower School, we empower children to take charge of their own learning. Our student-centered approach fosters exploration, collaboration, and intellectual risk-taking. Guided by caring and dedicated teachers, students develop healthy habits and organizational skills. Whether in the science lab, on the bluff, or out on the pier, our faculty create a supportive environment where children thrive.
BALANCED LEARNING
Balancing structured and unstructured time is essential for effective learning. In the Lower School, each day integrates both academic and free time. During unstructured play, valuable social and emotional development occurs, enabling children to return to the classroom more focused and engaged.
LOW STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO ALLOWS FOR INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION
1ST & 8TH GRADE BUDDY PROGRAM
FOSTERS COMMUNITY ACROSS DIVISIONS
NEED EXTRA SUPPORT?
MORNING MEETINGS FOCUSING ON CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
OPPURTUNITIES TO GROW CONFIDENCE THROUGH ON-STAGE PERFOMANCE
At Bayside we offer a number of support services including, but not limited to, reading recovery, individual/small group academic coaching & support, occupational therapy, speech & language therapy, and ESL Support.
GRADE LEVELS
1ST GRADE, 2ND GRADE, 3RD GRADE, 4TH GRADE
EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
• STUDENT GOVERNMENT
• YOUTH DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE (YDL) SPORTS
• BALLET & JAZZ
WEEKLY ENRICHMENT OFFERINGS
LOWER SCHOOL STUDENTS MEET WITH DESIGNATED INSTRUCTORS MULTIPLE TIMES PER WEEK:
• PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE)
• MUSIC
• LIBRARY
• SPANISH
• ART
• SCIENCE
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE LOWER SCHOOL.
MIDDLE SCHOOL COMMUNITY
We believe that community is paramount to the Bayside Middle School experience. Activities like pep rallies and the Middle School House System help to build school spirit and foster a tight-knit community.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Bayside’s Middle School focuses on nurturing the whole child and partnering with parents during this important developmental stage. Our teachers encourage innovation, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking. With a strong emphasis on core values and character education, the Middle School community inspires students to excel and discover their potential.
OPTIMIZING EACH DAY
In Bayside’s Middle School, daily breaks offer students valuable opportunities to navigate social dynamics. Dedicated study hall and advisory periods help them develop crucial time management skills. Our rotating schedule ensures subjects are taught at different times each day, optimizing engagement and learning.
THE BENEFITS OF SMALL CLASSES
At Bayside Academy, small class sizes provide numerous benefits, including increased individual attention from teachers, leading to better understanding and academic performance. Additionally, these intimate settings foster stronger relationships among students and between students and teachers, creating a more supportive and engaging learning environment.
GRADE LEVELS
5TH GRADE, 6TH GRADE, 7TH GRADE, 8TH GRADE
GROWING TOGETHER
• TEACHER-LED ADVISORY GROUPS
• WEEKLY ASSEMBLIES WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO LEAD & PERFORM
• PEER-ELECTED STUDENT GOVERNMENT
• ATHLETICS FOR EVERY SEASON
• COMBINED CLUBS WITH THE UPPER SCHOOL, INCLUDING MODEL UN, SPEECH & DEBATE, YOUTH LEGISLATURE
ENRICHMENT
STUDENTS CONTINUE TO EXPERIENCE ALL ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN 5TH GRADE, WITH CHOICES OFFERED IN 6TH-8TH GRADE.
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MIDDLE SCHOOL AT BAYSIDE.
UPPER SCHOOL
In the Upper School, Bayside Academy students can customize their academic schedules to align with their interests, intellectual needs, and collegiate goals. The academic day includes time for participation in clubs, meetings with teachers, study sessions, and school work. Additionally, our cascading schedule helps students develop essential time management skills, preparing them for the independence of college life.
COLLEGE COUNSELING
The college counseling program is a cornerstone of the Bayside Academy experience. Starting in the spring of 8th grade and continuing through senior year, students and parents collaborate with our two dedicated college counselors. These counselors guide families through the complexities of the college application process, ensuring each student discovers their “best-fit” college.
8 9 10 11 12
• INITIAL SPRING COUNSELING MEETING FOR STUDENTS & PARENTS
• MULTIPLE GROUP COUNSELING MEETINGS
• TAKE THE PREACT & PSAT
• MULTIPLE GROUP COUNSELING MEETINGS
• TAKE THE PREACT
• CREATE SCOIR ACCOUNT
• FALL PARENT MEETING
• ACT & SAT TESTING CONTINUES
• SEMESTER-LONG SENIOR SEMINAR
• FALL PARENT MEETING
• MEETINGS WITH COLLEGE REPS AT BAYSIDE
• SUMMER ESSAY & RESUME WORKSHOPS
• APPLY TO COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
• ACT & SAT TESTING BEGINS
• STUDENTS ASSIGNED A SPECIFIC COLLEGE COUNSELOR
• SEMESTER-LONG JUNIOR SEMINAR
• INDIVIDUAL FAMILY MEETING WITH YOUR COUNSELOR
• MEETINGS WITH COLLEGE REPS AT BAYSIDE
SCHEDULING
A RESEARCH-BASED LATE START TO THE SCHOOL DAY ALLOWS FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO MEET WITH TEACHERS, EXERCISE, SOCIALIZE, OR CATCH UP ON SLEEP
OUR BELL-FREE SCHEDULE PROVIDES A CALMER & LESS DISRUPTIVE ENVIRONMENT
CLASSES MEET FEWER DAYS FOR LONGER PERIODS TO ALLOW FOR MORE IN-DEPTH STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE UPPER SCHOOL.
ONE COMMUNITY.
SERVICE
Service is integral to our community at Bayside Academy. Throughout each division, students engage in activities that promote helping others and working together. They care for the environment, assist local agencies, and show compassion, learning the value of giving back while developing leadership skills and gaining a deeper understanding of the world around them.
LEADERSHIP
Leadership development is key to preparing our students for the future. Opportunities to lead are woven into our curriculum, with all students participating in assemblies and classroom leadership. Starting in Lower School, students can join student government and become peer helpers (beginning in 5th grade), while in Middle and Upper School, they mentor younger students and lead various clubs. These experiences build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility, laying the foundation for future success.
COMMUNITY TIME
A unique aspect of Bayside Academy is that our entire community shares one beautiful campus. To make the most of this shared space, we have implemented Community Time, a campus-wide break during the day that balances academic excellence and wellness, ensuring a healthy pace. During Community Time, students gather for assemblies and clubs, attend presentations and advisory sessions, participate in school-wide celebrations, or socialize on the bluff. This period fosters connections, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging within our school community.
SCHOOL SPIRIT
Fostering school spirit is essential for creating a sense of belonging and pride. Admirals of all ages participate in pep rallies, Spirit Fridays, Admiral Walks, sports events, art performances, and spirit weeks. These activities and celebrations help cultivate a strong sense of pride within our school community.
ONE NETWORK.
Being an Admiral doesn’t stop at graduation! Our expansive alumni network is spread across the country, with students attending a wide range of colleges and universities, both close to home and afar.
COLLEGES ATTENDED BY BAYSIDE ALUMNI IN THE PAST 4 YEARS:
American University
American Musical and Dramatic Academy
Auburn University
Baylor University
Berry College
Birmingham-Southern College
Boston College
Centre College
Clemson University
Coastal Alabama Community College
College of Charleston
Colorado State University
Dartmouth College
Davidson College
Drexel University
Duke University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Furman University
Hampden-Sydney College
High Point University
Jacksonville State University
Kennesaw State University
Lees-McRae College
Louisiana State University
Loyola University New Orleans
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Mercer University
Middle Tennessee State University
Middlebury College
Millsaps College
Mississippi College
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Mississippi State University
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Montana State University
Northeastern University
Norwich University
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Pennsylvania State University
Pensacola State College
Point Park University
Ringling College of Art and Design
Samford University
San Diego State University
Savannah College of Art and Design
Southeast Louisiana University
Southern Methodist University
Southern Union Community College
Southwest Mississippi Community College
Spring Hill College
Texas A & M University
Texas Christian University
The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina
The George Washington University
The University of Alabama
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
The University of Texas at Dallas
The University of the Sciences
Trinity University San Antonio
Troy University
Tulane University
United States Naval Academy
University of Colorado
University of Colorado, Boulder
University of Denver
University of Florida
University of Miami
University of Mississippi
University of Mobile
University of Montevallo
University of Notre Dame
University of South Alabama
University of South Carolina
University of Southern Mississippi
University of Tampa
University of Vermont
University of Virginia
University of West Florida
Wake Forest University
Washington and Lee University
Washington University in St. Louis
ONE TEAM.
ATHLETICS
At Bayside Academy, we pride ourselves on a rich tradition of excellence in sports. Our athletic program is a vital component of the Bayside experience, offering students opportunities to push their limits and grow in self-confidence through dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. Participation in sports fosters a sense of community and cultivates adaptable leaders, preparing ourstudents for success both on and off the field. Go Admirals!
85% OF OUR STUDENTS ARE ATHLETES, MANY ON MULTIPLE TEAMS.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE ( GRADES 1-6 )
Our Youth Development League (YDL), tailored for students in grades 1-6, welcomes all skill levels. YDL athletics aim to develop fundamental skills, promote teamwork, and instill a passion for the game, all while offering a competitive and enjoyable experience for our young athletes.
MIDDLE SCHOOL & VARSITY ATHLETICS ( GRADES 7-12 )
Beginning in the 7th grade, students transition to our varsity athletic program, fiedling over 40 teams. This program not only aims to enhances athletic skills but also promotes physical fitness, discipline, and a sense of school spirit, contributing to well-rounded personal development.
10+ OF OUR ALUMNI ARE CURRENTLY PLAYING AT THE COLEGIATE LEVEL. OUR TEAMS BASEBALL
BASKETBALL
CHEERLEADING CROSS COUNTRY FOOTBALL GOLF SOCCER
SWIMMING * TENNIS * TRACK & FIELD VOLLEYBALL WRESTLING
* THESE TEAMS ARE OFFERED AT THE VARSITY LEVEL ONLY.
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR ATHLETICS PROGRAM.
ONE DREAM.
THE ARTS
At Bayside Academy, we believe that art is essential to developing well-rounded individuals. From the stage to the studio, our art program enables students to connect with others and the environment around them. Our program is divided into two main pillars, fine arts and performing arts, each offering distinct opportunities for creative expression and skill development. Regardless of your medium, art at Bayside is designed to enhance our students academic journey while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.
OUR MEDIUMS
BAND
CERAMICS
DANCE
DRAMA
DRAWING
FILM
MIXED MEDIA
PAINTING
PHOTOGRAPHY
STUDIO ART
TECHNICAL THEATRE
VIDEO PRODUCTION
RECENT SHOWS
PETER PAN JR.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL
ANNIE, JR.
PIRATES! THEO THUD & THE QUEST FOR WEIRD BEARD
GREASE: SCHOOL
VERSION
THE LITTLE MERMAID THE ADDAMS FAMILY THE WITCH’S PRINCESS
FINE ARTS
Our fine arts mediums focus on visual creativity and techniques, allowing students to explore disciplines such as drawing, painting, and sculpture.
ARTS THROUGH THE YEARS
IN THE EARLY SCHOOL AND LOWER SCHOOL , MUSIC AND ART ARE INTEGRATED INTO DAILY INSTRUCTION, LAYING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR ARTISTIC APPRECIATION.
PERFORMING ARTS
Performing arts at Bayside emphasize music, drama, & dance, providing students with opportunities to develop their talents in performance and stagecraft.
AS STUDENTS PROGRESS TO MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL , THEY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO PERSONALIZE THEIR EDUCATION WITH COURSES SUCH AS AP STUDIO ART, ADVANCED BAND, AND DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY.
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR ARTS PROGRAM.
OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
DR. SCOTT PHILLIPPS, HEAD OF SCHOOL
RUSS CONNELL, ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL
CINDY FREDERICK, HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
DANIEL KRIEBEL, HEAD OF LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOLS
CHERYL CICCO, HEAD OF EARLY SCHOOL
ALISA ASCIK, ADMISSIONS DIRECTOR
ELLEN BLACKWELL, DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE COUNSELING
JAMIE FERGUSON, ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
THERE’S ONLY ONE YOU!
ADMIRAL ADMISSIONS
At Bayside Academy, admission is selective and based on academic ability, dedication, and potential for growth. We proudly serve a diverse student body and regularly welcome international students. Tuition assistance is available for Middle and Upper School students with demonstrated financial need. Qualified applicants are considered for acceptance without regard to race, creed, sex, or national/ethnic origin.
Bayside is accredited by the AdvanceED through the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). The school is a member of SAIS, the National Association of IndependentSchools (NAIS), the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA), and other professional organizations.
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BAYSIDE ADMISSIONS AND APPLY TODAY !
