Autauga County Schools

JROTC Program at AHS

Lee-Scott Celebrates 100 Days of School

There weren’t quite 101 Pre-K Dalmatians, but there were just about that many spots! Our Pre-K friends are 101 days smarter and had a “pawsome” day celebrating.

Read Aloud Day at CWES

supervise daily activities and training. The program prepares students for life after high school and provides them with meaningful opportunities to further their education or immediately enter the workforce. There are currently 110 Cadets in the program with co-curricular teams that compete against other schools as Drill Teams, Color Guard, Raider Teams, PT Teams, and Rifle Teams. Cadets also perform Color Guard missions for Auburn High School, Auburn University, and the Auburn community at large. Students in this program are awarded Career Technical Education and Physical Education credits.

Students across the globe celebrated World Read Aloud Day and students in Auburn City Schools had the opportunity to meet several special guest readers!.

For 13 years, World Read Aloud Day has called attention to the importance of sharing stories by challenging participants to grab a book, find an audience, and read aloud. The global effort, created by the non-profit LitWorld and sponsored by Scholastic, is celebrated annually in more than 173 countries and brings people together through the shared connection of reading aloud in all communities.

Drake Middle Prepares for ACAP

Dinosaurs at ACA

Auburn Classical Academy’s Junior kindergarteners have been learning all about dinosaurs. Pictured here is Mrs. Cunningham, Jr. K teacher, and students building a dinosaur skeleton out of paper towel rolls. The students loved putting the dinosaur together and learned so much in the process.

J.F. Drake Middle students participated in an ACAP Testing Preparation Session to learn more about the format of the ACAP test and review good test-taking strategies specific to the math portion of the state test. The presenters from AMSTI used a Kahoot-style review to teach and assess student learning. With more than 1,500 participants from across the state involved in the Kahoot game, sixth grader Junhyeok Ahn was the overall winner! To win Kahoot, students must answer questions correctly and at a faster rate than other competitors. Jun’s classmates were cheering him on once he hit the leaderboard, and when he won, the hallway erupted into cheers!

February is Alabama Career Technical Education Month at Auburn City Schools

With more than 1,700 students are enrolled in CTE courses in Auburn City Schools. One program is the Advertising Design. The Advertising Design program is taught by Mr. Clay Cox, who has 20 years of teaching experience. Approximately 140 students enroll in the three different levels of classes each year and are encouraged to work on many relevant and engaging projects. Beginning in the introductory course, students are responsible for many images utilized by Auburn High School performing arts and athletic teams, including social media graphics, season schedules, and printed posters visible around campus. Advertising Design also offers the opportunity for students to become credentialed as an Adobe Photoshop Certified Associate. This industry-recognized certification demonstrates foundational skills and knowledge for digital media careers. Through collaborative partnerships with various businesses, individuals, institutions, and organizations, Advertising Design students at AHS have created graphics for Tuskegee University and nationally touring stand-up comedians. Recent awards include:

- Multiple Visual Arts Achievement Program (VAAP) Contest State Winners

- First place in the Alexander Shunnarah Billboard Contest

- Winner of the Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education (ALACTE) Cover Contest

Parents Night Out at AuMMA

Parent’s Night Out is a fun, themed event hosted by Auburn Mixed Martial Arts. Each event has its own theme. This is a time for children to meet other children that have similar interests and live in the Opelika/ Auburn area. Parents get a break for the evening, while their children enjoy the activities from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM.

ACS Students Compete at VEX Invitational Tournament

Auburn High School served as the host site for the VEX IQ Slap Shot Invitational Tournament, with 24 local teams in the competition. Students from four ACS elementary schools (grades 3-5), J.F. Drake Middle School, East Samford School, and Auburn Junior High School, were in attendance and won numerous awards. Team 737B from Ogletree Elementary won the “Excellence Award” for exemplifying excellence in creating a high-quality, competitive robotics program. Team 1555A from Yarbrough Elementary and Team 737B both won the “Teamwork Champions Award” for their collaboration as a two-team alliance that earned the highest score in the Teamwork Challenge Finals matches. Team 1555C from Yarbrough Elementary won the “Robot Skills Champion Award” for earning the highest combined Driving Skills Challenge and Programming Skills Challenge scores. Team 36832C from Auburn Junior High School won the “Design Award” for demonstrating the most organized and professional approach to the design process, project/time management, and team organization. Team 1555G from Yarbrough Elementary won the “Judges Award” for being the most deserving of special recognition. Judges consider several criteria for this award, including exemplary effort and perseverance at the event, team accomplishments throughout the season, and other factors that may not fall under existing award categories. ACS congratulates all the students, coaches, parents, and guardians for their success and dedication to robotics!

ACA’s Project Lead the Way Engineering Program and STEM Nights

Lee-Scott Seniors Honor Teachers

The tradition continues at Lee-Scott Academy, where senior basketball players chose a teacher to honor by giving a jersey to them ahead of their big senior night game. Our teachers push these students to be their best on and off their playing surfaces each day...we’re thankful for them!

Lindsey Joiner: Mrs. Bryant

Joseph Horne: Mrs. Basgier

Hutch Sprayberry: Mrs. von Gal

Payne Weissinger: Mrs. Pickard

Connor Burnett: Mrs. Payne

Alex Cash: Mrs. Armstrong

The Project Lead the Way Engineering program is taught by Mrs. Sarah Sharman, who has 10 years of teaching experience as well as 10 years of industry experience. The Project Lead the Way Engineering curriculum is taught at three of Auburn City Schools’ campuses, enrolling approximately 400 students a year. At Auburn High School, approximately 125 students enroll in the three levels of classes each year that encompass several engineering disciplines to provide students with strong foundations for their future. Students can enroll in courses that introduce computer-aided design (CAD) modeling, principles of engineering, civil engineering and architecture, aerospace engineering, and Robotics. Additionally, students can become credentialed as a Certified SolidWorks Associate, an industry-recognized certification. Students can share their passion for STEM-related concepts outside the classroom with their younger peers. Throughout the school year, Auburn High and Auburn Junior High students visit all ACS elementary schools to host STEM Nights. The activities for each STEM Night introduce younger students to fun and engaging concepts related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Recent awards include:

- Tournament Champion, Spooky VEX at Auburn University

- VEX Robotics Excellence Award, Bots in the Hills, Vestavia, AL

- VEX Robotics Skills Champion, Bots in the Hills, Vestavia, AL

- VEX Robotics Design Award, Patriot Pride Competition, Pike Road, AL

- VEX Robotics Design Award, Phenix City Spin Up, Phenix City, AL

- Tournament Champion, LAMP VRC, Montgomery, AL

- VEX Robotics State Winners

- Competed at VEX Worlds in Dallas, TX

- Design Award Recipient

ACA Competes in Spelling Bee

Congratulations to Auburn Classical Academy’s 5th grade student, Luke Pittman. He competed in the Lee County Spelling Bee and placed 4th overall. Way to go, Luke!

Autauga County Schools

SMCS Celebrate Catholic Schools Week and Ribbon Cutting

St. Michael Catholic participated in the national Celebrating Catholic Schools Week with fun activities for students and families. They coordinated a book drive for Lee County Literacy and held a ribbon cutting with the Auburn Chamber of Commerce. City Councilman and SMCS parent Tyler Adams were among notables in attendance.

Trinity Christian Teaches Etiquette Lessons

6th grade students are almost finished with etiquette lessons as they prepare for their first Cotillion. Students learn conversational skills, table manners, and how to be Godly gentlemen and ladies. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Our Relationship with Social Media Can One Survive Without the Other?

What came firs...the chicken or the egg? This has been an unanswered question floating for generations. Actually, you can get an answer, but it will always be different depending on who you ask. This led me to start thinking about social media. Can social media survive without us? Or can we not survive without it?

The iPhone was launched in 2007, just 16 short years ago. And within those 16 years, we have launched ourselves deeply into tech so fast that our brains and bodies are having trouble keeping up.

We see this manifest physically through “tech neck,” trigger thumb (from texting too much), upper back pain from bending over our phones so much, eye problems, and so on. We also see the psychological manifestations through the increase in anxiety, depression, body image issues, etc. These symptoms, ranging from annoying to highly distressing, can be alleviated, if not cured, by simply putting our devices down.

For thousands of years, humans have been communicating face-to-face with one another. We were outdoors. We paid attention to our surroundings more. We stopped to smell the roses and dug our toes in the grass.

New research shows us that simply “grounding” or getting outside and walking in the grass for just 15 minutes a day alleviates anxiety and may even counteract the EMFs that we absorb through so much digital use. So if our bodies are built to be without devices, and our bodies give us all of these signals that we need to be without them, and if we FEEL better without them, then why are we having such a hard time putting them down? life before social media. We remember what it was like to work outside, to communicate face to face, and...well...how to be bored. We are okay when left with our own thoughts and ideas. But 50 years from now, WE will all be gone. So it begs the question, will the newer generations be able to live without devices or tech? And if it is so ingrained, so hard-wired for everyone to rely on it to function, where will we be physically? Emotionally? Will our lives be 100 percent reliant on something our bodies continue to reject?

So back to the questions.

So what came first? The chicken or the egg? We do not know the answer to that question. But we will discover the answer to the tech question sooner than we realize. I believe that if we do not put things in place now to help support our biological systems, generations to come will struggle daily in this space. We still have the ability to say no to constant device time. We can teach younger generations the importance of face-to-face connection, getting outside, and getting their toes in the grass. Teaching them this will protect them for generations to come.

We know that tech cannot survive without us. Social media is a parasitic relationship. We are the host. It cannot survive without us. But the big question is can we survive without it? At what point does the host need the parasite to live?

Our everyday lives are surrounded and governed by devices. We use them for work and socializing. So much of what we buy is through our devices. Our kids’ extra-curricular activities are scheduled through text or apps. If all of this was removed, would we survive?

Currently, I say yes. It would be hard. But we must remember that we still have the generation with us that remembers

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

I knew certain things about sending my kids to camp. I knew they would spend a lot of time outside and they would try new things. I was thrilled they would meet new people and learn more about something they love. They would swim and laugh and stay up way too late. These are the things I knew.

But after they got home, I realized there were other things, things I couldn’t have imagined would be true. Despite having gone to camp as a kid, I somehow forgot or didn’t look at it through the same lens. And now, as a mom, I couldn’t hide my surprise at some of what I discovered when they got back.

Beyond the fun and the lousy food, and after the bonfire stories and the silly games they played, these are the things I didn’t see coming. And I’m starting with the hardest one.

1. They struggled, but it’s worth it. I know this isn’t what we want for them, but it’s actually a good thing. Think about a time you had to work really hard for something. A time you failed and tried again. What happened? You learned. You persevered. You became stronger. So, yes, at camp there was struggle. Maybe they didn’t get the top bunk as they wanted or they weren’t able to stand up on the water skis. Maybe they missed home. A lot. But they made a friend that helped them feel less lonely. Whatever the struggle, it was an opportunity for growth they would not have had at home. And that makes the struggle worth it.

2. Speaking of growing, they grew. They left looking like your baby, and somehow they come home looking more grownup. It doesn’t matter if they were gone the whole summer or two days. Independence makes them grow. (Side note: they will still be your baby.)

3. That last hug and first hug are the best you have had in a long time. Especially if you have tweens or teens. The hug right before they leave might feel harder than you imagined, so you hug tight. And when they get back, the simple act of having your arms around them again, well, that’s just magic. Except...

4. They stink. It doesn’t matter if they went to day camp or three weeks in a cabin, hygiene is different at camp. Let’s be real: it’s non-existent. But they survived and you can send them right to the shower when they get home.

5. The laundry will surprise you. Somehow all the clothes will smell like damp gym shoes left in a garbage can for a week. This is odd considering the reality that they wore the same clothes most of the time and didn’t bother to change. General rule: if it went to camp it gets washed. Clothes, sleeping bags, people. It all gets washed.

6. They need sleep. You’re going to want to hear all about it. And they will be excited to tell you. For exactly fifteen minutes. And then they will fall into a deep sleep, perhaps even sleeping through dinner straight until the next day. There is nothing wrong, they are simply exhausted from their adventures. It’s okay though because you’ll go in and check on them like you did when they were little, brushing back their hair and kissing their forehead.

7. They have friends you don’t know. They met people. They made new friendships. They’ll talk about these people as if you know them. Just play along. It’s easier on everyone.

8. Camp store money was the best. And yes, they spent it all on candy. They’ll be fine.

9. Your letters/emails/texts meant more to you than they did to them. And it’s okay. If they don’t remember what you wrote or barely toss a thank you nod your way, they served their purpose: they reminded them you are always there for them and they let you feel more connected. Win-win.

10. Even if it was “THE BEST WEEK EVER” they are glad to be home. They spent the whole week being go-go-go. Now, they are back to where they are safe and loved and can relax. And that feels pretty great for both of you.

Traveling for a week in December to Turks and Caicos is a tradition for Danielle Gomberg and her family. They love es caping the Alabama cold and visiting this island together.

“We eat fish tacos daily for lunch when we are there,” said Danielle. So, it’s no surprise that this is the meal she chose to share with us for this month’s Dinner’s Ready recipe.

Danielle resides in Auburn, AL, with her husband, Scott, and their 15-year-old son Jordan. The family enjoys eating at home and makes it a priority.

“We have family dinners every night,” shared Danielle. “This is where we share our highs and lows of the day.”

Scott does most of the cooking in the Gomberg household and loves to grill or use his smoker on the weekends. However, the family does go out to eat after church on Sundays.

“We go eat Mexican because I love chips and salsa,” Danielle shared.

Danielle has been a physical therapist for Prime Home Health for the past ten years. She went on to share that her work family is like extended family because it’s a locally-owned company.

Scott is the Vice President of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Alabama. As a PGA Professional, he couldn’t have found a more fitting profession. In addition, the family all enjoy golfing together.

Their son Jordan loves to work out and enjoys being part of the Auburn Skeet Shooting team. He is also learning to drive.

“I love serving and helping others,” said Danielle. She spends plenty of time serving on the community and outreach team at her church. She continued, “I find the most joy in serving others. I serve on a medical missions team and travel at least once a year to the Dominican or Honduras.”

For fun, Danielle loves to work out at Roar, a new gym in Auburn. Scott and Jordan enjoy deer hunting together. In addition, the family has a Golden Retriever named Morgan that they love to take on walks.

The Gombergs hope you enjoy this recipe that takes them back to the island life every time they make it.

Favorite Fish Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. Fresh Halibut or another flaky white fish, cut into 3” x 1/2” pieces

• 2 Eggs beaten, for a white wash

• 1 cup Pablo bread crumbs

• Oil, for frying

For the slaw:

• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded

• 1 cup Napa cabbage, shredded

• 2 small radishes, julienned

•1/2 cup carrots, shredded

• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/2 cup BRIANNAS Cilantro Lime Dressing

For the sauce:

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup BRIANNAS Champagne

Vinaigrette Dressing

For the Garnish:

• 1 grilled corn off the cob

• Mini grilled bell peppers, sliced

• 1 lime, cut into quarters

• Cotija cheese

• Corn or flour tortillas

Directions:

1. Prepare the slaw by mixing red cabbage, Napa cabbage, radishes, carrots, and cilantro. Add BRIANNAS Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing 30 minutes before serving.

2. Prepare the sauce by mixing sour cream and BRIANNAS Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing in a bowl. Set aside.

3. Heat oil or lard over medium heat. Make sure you have enough oil to cover halfway up the side of each piece of fish.

4. Dredge fish in corn starch, dip in egg wash, coat in panko, and set aside until all fish is coated.

5. Add the fish to the oil, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook both sides until golden brown, remove, and immediately salt.

6. Grill or pan fry tortillas.

7. To assemble, place appropriate amount of fish in taco. Top with slaw, grilled peppers, cotija cheese, and sauce. Garnish with lime wedges. Enjoy!

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

It’s no exaggeration to say that the one event kids really look forward to all year is summer camp. But how do you choose the right one for them? Based on my experiences as the parent of a teen, as well as conversations with other parents, I’ve figured out the top 6 things to consider.

Cost Matters

It goes without saying that cost is an important factor, especially if you have more than one kid. Summer camps can range widely in price, depending on whether they’re bare-bones camps with a limited number of activities, or camps that offer a lot of expensive activities like overnight trips. But don’t just consider the price of the camp. Also consider how much money you’ll have left for other summer activities like family trips. Kids’ summer vacations are long and can feel even longer if the whole family has to stay home for many weeks because you didn’t have any money left to do other things. I learned this the hard way the first time our son went to a summer camp. The camp was so expensive that we ended up not having money for our planned family vacation.

Geographical Distance

Another aspect to consider is the distance of the camp from your home. If the camp is far away, you may end up spending a lot of time and money driving to and from camp. This issue is made even more challenging if you have kids who go to different camps, at different times, and for different lengths of time. A good friend of ours spends a lot of the summer crisscrossing the U.S. on the way to and from the different camps that his kids attend.

Day Camp or Sleepaway?

One of the biggest choices every parent faces is whether to send their kids to a day camp or a sleepaway camp. In my experience, it’s best to start with a day camp until your kids express interest in going to a sleepaway camp. Believe me: they’re fully aware, even at a young age, that sleepaway camps exist and that some of their friends already have attended them. If your kids haven’t said they’d like to go to a sleepaway camp, it’s probably because they’re not ready yet. It can also be a good idea to send your kids to both. While sleepaway camps give them a chance to experience real independence and to make new friends, day camps let them come home in the late afternoon and spend some time with their regular friends.

Indoor or Outdoor Activities?

Consider the types of activities in which your kids would be engaged. Some kids enjoy sitting quietly inside, focusing on arts and crafts; other kids prefer being outdoors doing sports. You could choose to simply follow your kids’ preferences and let them decide, or you could use summer camp as a chance to challenge your kids to step outside their comfort zone and try something different.

My spouse certainly prefers the second option. Since our son first began going to summer camp, my spouse has insisted that he try activities that we can’t offer him in our regular city-slicker lives, like canoeing, water skiing, and zip-lining.

Single Activity or Multiple Activities?

Find out if the camps you are interested in are specialized and focus on one activity, or if they offer multiple activities. Many camps are geared toward one specific activity, like chess, coding, writing, or more sports-oriented activities like basketball or soccer. Other camps offer kids a range of activities from sports to crafts to performing arts. Camps that focus on a single activity typically aim to strengthen kids’ abilities in that particular area. Camps that offer many different activities try to introduce kids to different things. So ask yourself – and your kids - whether the goal is simply to have fun and try new things, or whether the goal is to enhance some particular skill of theirs.

Single or Multiple Camps?

Finally, ask yourself whether you want to send your kids to one camp for all or part of the summer, or whether you want your kids to go to multiple camps. There are good reasons for either choice. On the one hand, sending your kids to a single camp can save you time and money shuttling between camps. It would also let your kids cultivate friendships for a longer period of time. On the other hand, sending your kids to several camps would let them explore different interests and make more new friends.

Auburn University

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center ad on page 18

2222 North College Street, Auburn, Al 36830 Spring Break Camp at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is a great way for your children to spend their spring break outdoors, immersed in nature, exercise, and fresh air... and a bit of education, too! Campers will join our naturalists for three days of nature-based learning experiences and adventure in the forests of the Nature Center. Summer Ecology Camps will explore Our Wonderful Woods. We will be adventuring into the forest and learning about all the amazing plants and animals that live there, and the systems that keep forests healthy! Each week is designed for a different age group, with the two Explorers weeks designed for mixed ages. Choose one or more weeks of camp for your child(ren) when you register. Summer Adventure Camp brings students on three day-trips to some of the incredible natural and historic wonders that Alabama has to offer. From the highest peak in the state to the depths of first recorded caverns in the United States, Alabama is waiting to be explored!

Woodland Wonders Camp offers campers the opportunity to learn through nature in a safe and beautiful environment. Campers will experience complete, nature-based lessons covering diverse educational topics; and enjoy exercise and fresh air through hikes and time on the Nature Playground. Ages 3-K. Various dates in June and July.

Dates: Spring Break: Auburn City Schools: March 6 – 8 and Opelika City Schools: March 20 – 22. Summer Adventure Camp July 18-20- (grades 5th8th). Archeology, geology, history, wildlife, forestry, kayaking, caving, swimming and more! Summer Camps: Camp Discovery, Grades 3rd-4th: May 30-June 2. Young Naturalist, Grades 1st-2nd: June 5-9, Explorers I, Grades 1st-7th: June 12-16, Explorers, Grades 1st-7th: June 26-30, Junior Rangers, Grades 5th-7th: June 19-23. Ages: 1st-7th grade 334-502-4553 www.auburn.edu/preserve

Auburn University Sport Camps

Auburn Campus, Auburn, Al 36849

Offering summer camp programs in most athletic sports including football, soccer, volleyball, gymnastics, swim, golf and more.

Dates: May-August Ages: Elementary-High School www.auburntigers.com

Auburn University Summer Youth Programs

Auburn Campus, Auburn, Al 36849 Hosting many themed camps on campus including 21st Century and Construction to Vet Camp and Forestry. Something for every interest.

Dates: May-July Ages: Elementary to High School 334-844-5100 www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/ auburnyouthprograms/

Fine Arts Camps

Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 19

1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, Al 36104 Tutus & Tiaras is a fairytale ballet summer camp for pre-ballet students ages 3-8. Each day starts with a ballet class followed by a creative movement class. Summer Classes offer five week session features morning to early afternoon classes for the dancer that is interested in continuing their training year round. Summer is the perfect time to hone technique and artistry. Summer Intensive: Take the opportunity to learn from a carefully selected Master Faculty brought in to teach classes such as Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, and Hip-Hop.

Dates: May 30-June 2, July 10-24

Ages: Age 3-professional level 334-625-2590 www.alabamadancetheatre.com

Auburn Area Community Theatre ad on page 7

222 East Drake Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830

While the Jan Dempsey Art Center is undergoing renovations, we are taking the theatre to other locations this summer. “Play” in the Woods at the

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, Musical Theatre Camp at Telfair B. Peet Theatre, “Play” with Puppets, and Creating Theatre at Kiesel Park.

Dates: June 5-9, June 19-23, July 17-21, July 24-28 Ages: Ages 3-18

334-246-1084 www.auburnact.org

Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 12 and 21

425 Perry Street, Auburn, Al 36830

Art for Young Children: Pre-school children will explore a variety of age appropriate art materials including but not limited to clay, paint and fabric. We are an ART workshop with emphasis on art appreciation and the process of creating art. Students create original art pieces incorporating the elements of art in a variety of age-appropriate lessons using age appropriate materials. An exhibition of the children’s artwork is held at the end of each session.

Visual Arts Workshop: Campers will explore different mediums with learning about artists, history, moments and culture. This is an ART workshop with emphasis on aesthetics and the process of creating art. We will inspire your child to experiment and try new techniques. An exhibition of the children’s artwork is held at the end of each session.

Dates: Visual Arts: June 26-30 and July 17-21.

Art for Young Children: June 20-22 and July 11-13.

Ages: Ages 4-12

334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

First Baptist Church Fine Arts Academy

301 South 8th Street, Opelika, Al 36801

Providing music lessons in Opelika/Auburn where Christ is honored and students are challenged and inspired to develop their God-given talents for the glory and service of God. Private and group lessons in piano, voice, guitar, brass, woodwinds, strings and percussion. Highly qualified teachers. Lessons available Monday-Friday, 9:00am-9:00pm (in 30 minute increments). Spring, Summer and Fall semester sessions.

Dates: Ongoing Spring and Summer

Ages: All ages

334-745-5715 www.fbcopelika.com/fine-arts-academy

Make Your Move Performing Arts

1220 Fox Run Ave, Ste 212, Opelika, Al 36801

Summer dance classes offered including ballet, jazz, lyrical, acro and more.

Dates: June-August Ages: Preschool-adult 334-705-0205 www.makeyourmovedance.com

Nix Ballet Studio

850 Stage Road, Auburn, Al 36830

6 week Summer Fun Dance Camps! Enroll Now! VIP (very important princess class) 3-4yr olds, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical / Contemporary, and Turns, Leaps, & Technique.

Dates: June-July Ages: 3 and up 334-877-7250 www.nixdancestudios.com

Rising Starz

2140 E University Dr Ste H, Auburn, Al 36830

Offering classes in all types of dance technique and fine arts including ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, tumbling, baton, musical theatre, acro and more.

Dates: June-August Ages: Preschool-adult 334-209-1464 www.risingstarzstudios.com

Spicer’s Band Camps

2140 E. University Dr. Suite K, Auburn, Al 36830

Camps are designed to provide students of various ages the rock n’ roll summer of a lifetime. All levels of our Rocks Camps give students the ability to learn and test their music skills in a real band and give an exciting performance at the completion of the camp. Similar to our store slogan, these camps are “Not Your Average Music Camps.”

Dates:June-July Ages:Ages 3 and up 334-329-7529 www.spicersmusic.com

Summer Showoffs

Parkway Baptist Church, Auburn, Al 36830

A music day camp that uses music and performance to build confidence and character. We help students develop their talents on stage!

Dates: June 26-30 and July 10-14

Ages: 1st-12th grade 205 470-4945 www.summershowoffs.com

The Opelika Theatre Company: O-Acts

1103 Glenn Street, Opelika, Al 36801

This year’s production will be “HERCULES” !

We are excited to partner with the Internationally known Missoula Children’s Theatre Tour for the summer of 2023! This is an exclusive opportunity for OTC and the surrounding communities.

Dates: June 5-10 Ages: Ages 3-adult 334-663-4480 www.opelikatheatrecompany.com

Tiger Twirlers

Max Fitness Center, 189 E. University Drive, Auburn, Al 36832

Offering baton twirling lessons taught by Mrs. Gail Hammet, former Auburn High School and Auburn University majorette. Call today to register for lessons.

Dates: Summer Lessons and ongoing lessons

Ages: All ages 601-630-6995

Variations Dance Studio

323 Airport Road, Suite F, Auburn, Al 36830 Summer Camps, Summer Intensive, Drop In Classes and more.

Dates: June-July Ages: 18 months and up 334-275-5013 www.variationsauburn.com

Local Day and Overnight Camps

Auburn Best Summer Camps ad on page 13

2515 East Glenn Avenue, 205, Auburn, Al 36830 Spring Break: 7:30am-6:00pm, open to ages 4-12, Lots of fun games, martial arts and much more! Summer Camp: 10 weeks of combination of martial arts, gymnastics, field trips, tumbling and much more! Ages 5-12 years.

Dates: March 6-10: Spring Break Camp. May 30-August 4: Summer Camps Ages: varies 334-887-0818 www.auburnbestafterschool.com

Auburn Day School ad on page 4 and 35

1199 South Donahue Dr, Ste E, Auburn, Al 36832 STEM Summer Camps: Cooking, Entrepreneur, Detective, Science in Motion, Mindcraft, Decoding, Candy Chemistry and more. Offering multiple day options throughout the week.

Dates: May 30-August 4 Ages: Ages 2 through Elementary School www.auburndayschool.com

Auburn First Baptist Church Child Development Center

ad on page 38

128 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830

The Child Development Center is a ministry of Auburn First Baptist Church in which we provide safe, loving, quality care for children in a Christian environment. We strive to provide the best in early education by providing hands-on learning so that each child may develop to his or her highest potential cognitively, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

Dates: May-August; 7:00am to 5:30pm MondayFriday. Ages: Kindergarten-rising 6th grade 334-821-8125 www.auburnfbc.org

Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutics Camp

ad on page 12 and 21

425 Perry Street, Auburn, Al 36830

Open to people with special needs, ages 17+. The Therapeutic Summer Camp’s curriculum program includes life skills training such as handling money, team work, social skills, creative opportunities, exercise, swimming, and other physical recreation activities (e.g., basketball, bowling, volleyball). The campers also participate in cultural experiences, such as visiting museums, outdoor adventures, and other exciting trips

Dates: June 5-July 28 Ages: Ages 4-12 334-332-1680 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Growing Room Child Development Center

ad on page 23

644 North Dean Road and 1755 Thomason Drive, Auburn/Opelika, Al 36830/36801

Our summer curriculum continues to include educational concepts such as literacy, math, science, and character education. Children enjoy warm nutritious meals and the safest play possible on our state of the art playgrounds. Give your child the best summer ever at the Growing Room! Both our Auburn and Opelika locations are open Monday-Friday, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.

Dates: Year round; Monday-Friday, 7 am – 6 pm

Ages: birth through grade school 334-501-2044/334-748-9020 www.growingroomusa.com

Kumon Math and Reading Center

ad on page 31

1550 Opelika Road, Suite 36 , Auburn, Al 36830

This summer, put your child on the path to a lifetime of learning. With the school year fresh in your child’s mind, summer is the perfect time to join Kumon.

Dates: year round Ages: students

334-501-8566 www.kumon.com/auburn-opelika-al

Opelika Parks and Recreation

ad on page 10

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801

Plex Camp and Summer Day Camp: Daily activities include arts and crafts, dodgeball, kickball and swimming. Each session will also have a couple of scheduled field trips off campus. Parents will receive detailed itineraries at the beginning of camp. Sports Programs: Be on the lookout for updates on camps to be offered such as sports, arts, fitness, and much more!

Dates: June-July TBA Ages: Kindergarten-7th 334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

The Montgomery Zoo

2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, Al 36110

Make summer vacation a wildlife adventure that you will never forget. Join kids of similar ages and interests for a fun-packed, educational experience themed around the animals of our planet. See daily live animal presentations; get up close and personal with some of the Educational animals at the Montgomery Zoo; enjoy scavenger hunts; craft time; classroom time; playtime, splash time, and games at our playground; train, pedal boat, and sky lift rides; participate in animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, parakeets and our collection of petting zoo animals; see behind the scene tours and visits with our zookeepers and other staff members.

Dates: June-July Ages: Ages 5-12 334-240-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com

Regional Day and Overnight Camps

Riverview Camp for Girls

ad on page 16

757 County Road 614, Mentone, al 35984

We’ve planned carefully everything you’re looking for in a perfect camp setting. Located just off Desoto Parkway on top of Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama and nestled in a bend of beautiful Little River. We are a Christian environment promoting Adventure, Inspiration, Character, and Confidence-Building. You’ll be amazed at what you can do!

Dates: May-July Ages: Ages 6-16 800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Activ8 Summer Camps

Columbus State University, 4225 University Avenue, Columbus, 31907 31907

You will find quality programs that promote leadership and youth development through enrichment activities, unique experiences, and opportunities to develop relationships with adults and peers.

Dates: Spring Break/May-August Ages: Ages 4-18 706-507-8070 www.columbus.augusoft.net

Alabama Museum of Natural History

The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Al 35487 Work side-by-side with scientists in the field of archeology and paleontology.

Dates: June-August 205-348-7550 www.almnh.ua.edu/

Alabama School of Fine Art

1800 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, Al 35203

We have camps for creative writers, young app designers and computer scientists, budding visual artists and the next great musicians. ASFA also offers 3-week math intensives in pre-algebra or Algebra 1 for those looking to get ahead in math or brush up their skills before the next school year.

Dates: June-July Ages: 2nd-9th grade 205-252-9241 www.asfa.k12.al.us

Alabama Wildlife FederationExpedition Lanark Day Camp 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, Al 36054 Expedition Lanark is a full day summer camp that provides hands-on, outdoor educational activities that teach natural resource stewardship, develop leadership skills, and build character.

Dates: May-August Ages: Ages 5-15 1.800.822.9453 www.alabamawildlife.org

Camp Cosby

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, Al 35014

At Camp Cosby, boys and girls have the opportunity to build self esteem, grow, learn, and challenge themselves. Campers also learn to develop values such as caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Pool, lake adventures, horses, trials, team building, zip line, and much more! Specialty camps include bmx camps, wakeboarding and ski camps, and wrangler.

Dates: June-July Ages: Ages 6-16

1-800-85COSBY www.campcosby.org

Camp Juliette Low

321 Camp Juliette Low Rd, Cloudland, Ga 30731 a private, non-profit summer camp for girls ages 7 to 17, accredited by the American Camp Association. CJL provides campers with fun and exciting ways to become more confident and competent, individually and in groups, through one-week and two-week outdoor residential programs.

Dates: June-July

706-862-2169 www.cjl.org

Camp Lookout Mountain for Boys

A traditional summer camp. Our program includes: water sports (swimming, diving, canoeing, and our famous zip line), horseback riding, rifle marksmanship, archery, tennis, arts and crafts, even flyfishing with much more...all under the supervision of excellent staff

Dates: June-July Ages: Age 7-15 504-861-1534 www.lookoutmountaincamp.com

Camp Marannook

P.O. Box 581, LaFayette, Al 36862

From sunrise to after sunset, every camp day is packed with fun. Campers will swim, shoot archery, make crafts, eat s’mores around the campfire, and play games on the game field. They explore a huge maze, ride the cable car and crazy swing and are challenged by various rope and climbing activities. And there is a one-of-a-kind Bible Time with skits and drama.

Dates: June-July Ages: 1st-9th Grade 334-864-7504 www.marannook.org

Camp Skyline Ranch

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, Al 35984

Adventures

in Math and Science: Alabama School of Math and Science

ad on page 25

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, Al 36604

ASMS Summer Programs are: Hands-on: Build, solve, explore, create, and more! Always Interactive! Never Boring. Experiential: Discover what it’s like to be an ASMS student! Collaborative: Make friends and engage with motivated peers! Studentdriven: Choose your courses and activities to explore what interests you the most! Developmental: Grow as a leader in STEM to be at the top of your field one day! Fun: Make special memories to last a lifetime! What do we offer?

Dates: June-July Ages: Elementary-High School 251-441-2100 www.asms.net

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

ad on page 13

2501 Bell Road, Montgomery, Al 36117

Offering various camping programs from Pirates and Mermaids, Color Olympics, Super Slueths, Sail Away and more. Please scan our QR Code on the ad for more information about registration.

Dates: June 11-16, June 18-23, June 23-25, June 25-July2, July 9014, July 16-21 Ages: Girls K-12 www.girlsscoutssa.org

Camp Alimisco

1771 Camp Alamisco Road, Dadeville, Al 36853

At Camp Alamisco, you see Jesus in nature, in the staff, and in all the activities we do. Come and be a part of a group who believes that Jesus is the One who has shown the “Crazy Love” for each of us and we can be with Him for all eternity. Purpose is to provide high quality Christian camping and retreat facilities. We are a year round camp and we are open to church and school groups as well as corporate functions.

Dates: June-July Ages: families and school age 256-825-9482 www.campalamisco.org/

Camp ASCCA

5278 Camp ASCCA Dr, Jackson’s Gap, Al 36861

A nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Providing weekend and week long sessions, Camp ASCCA is open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more.

Dates:May-August

256-825-9226 www.campascca.org

A summer camp for girls, Skyline offers one and two week sessions where campers make new friends, honor old traditions, and strengthen their faith. Camp Skyline accepts girls of good character

Dates: June 1-July 25 Ages: Ages 6-16 1 (800) 448-9279 www.campskyline.com

Camp Victory 363 Victory Circle, Samson, al 36477

Activities include Bible Classes, Singing, Missionary Presentations, Volleyball, Riflery, Horseback Riding, Ping-Pong, Swimming Pool, Tetherball, Good Food, Archery, Mini Golf, Canoeing, Basketball, Foosball, Crafts, Carpet ball, Outdoor Education, Boating, Fishing, Tournaments, Low Ropes Challenge Course and Climbing Wall.

Dates: June 1-July 25 Ages: 3rd-12th grade 334-898-7948 www.campvictoryal.org

Camp Walkabout

171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405 Camp Walkabout is the no-experience-necessary avenue to all things outdoors. Campers will climb the world renowned Tennessee wall sandstone one day, explore the amazing underground world of a cave the next and paddleboard the mighty Tennessee River Gorge another. Camp Walkabout optimizes every day to find new adventures, leadership opportunities and friendships that will last a lifetime. Camp Walkabout truly is the most fun a camper can have in the summer!

Dates: June-July Ages: Ages 5 and up 423- 757-2616 www.baylorschool.org/summer

Thursday, April 6th at 7:30 p.m.

Opelika SportsPlex | 3rd-5th graders

FREE and open to public

Friday, April 7th at 6:00 p.m.

Opelika SportsPlex | Ages 6-12

$5 per person. Must register by April 4th.

Saturday, April 8th at 10:00 a.m. Courthouse Square | 2nd grade & under

FREE and open to public

For more information visit opelikaparks.com

Camp Winnataska

260 Winnataska Drive, Pell City, al 35128

Offering a wide variety of quality programs for boys and girls. Each camp session will provide campers the opportunity to experience aspects of outdoor life such as swimming, canoeing, arts, crafts, nature study, sports, archery, ropes course, hiking and camping, and horseback riding full week sessions and mini-camp

Dates: June 1-July 25 Ages: Ages 6-15

205-6406741 www.winnataska.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, Ga 30731

Your summer camp experience provides cabin living, moderate summer daytime temperatures, cool evenings around the campfire, creative counselors, new friends, talent/skit nights, and a close family-like atmosphere.

Dates:May-July Ages: Ages 6-14

423-472-6070 www.campwoodmont.com

McWane Science Center

200 19th Street North , Birmingham, Al 35203

Hands-on educational programming with themes such as Mini-Meteorologists, Dino Discoveries, Super Hero Science, Science of Harry Potter, Rumble in the Jungle, Animation Station, Chemical Concoctions, Robotics and more! Camps are ½ day or full day.

Dates: Spring Break/June -August

Ages: Rising 1st-7th grade

205-714-8300 www.mcwane.org

The Bedford School “Squirrel Hollow Camp”

5665 Milam Road, Fairburn, Ga 30123

Serves children with academic needs due to learning difficulties. Campers participate in an individualized academic program as well as recreational activities (swimming, team games, Challenge Course elements and a variety of other games and activities). Academic instruction in the areas of reading, reading comprehension, math, auditory discrimination and writing skills through a variety of structured, multi-sensory techniques and materials.

Dates: June-July Ages: Age 6-14 770-774-8001 www.thebedfordschool.org

Valley View Equestrian Camp for Girls

606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, Ga 30731 Valley View Ranch has been to help each rancher have the full opportunity of horsemanship through instruction, time in the saddle on trails, and the care and responsibility of having her own horse, all atop beautiful Lookout Mountain.

Dates: June-July Ages: Age 8-17

706-862-2231 www.valleyviewranch.com

YMCA Camp Chandler

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, Al 36092

One of the largest camps in the south with over 1,000 acres of lake front property. Conveniently located 25 miles from Montgomery, AL on beautiful Lake Jordan. Whether you are looking for individual, small group, or camp-wide fun, we definitely have something for you! Campers are grouped according to age and gender. They live in cabins with up to 13 other campers and at least 2 counselors. Friendships grow as they live, share meals, laugh, and play together during a full week of fun! Campers are given the opportunity to participate in more than 20 different activities like horseback riding, skiing, archery, sailing, the high ropes course, and more.

Dates: June 6-July 31 Ages: Age 5-15 334-229-0035 www.campchandler.org

Sports Camps

SportsPlex Du for Kids

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801 Run. Bike. Run. This year, because the pool is under construction, the event will be a little different this year. Join us for biking, running and “swimming” on a water slide. All participants receive a shirt and a medal.

Dates: August 5. Ages: Age 6-15 Kids; 5 years Small Fry www.sportsplextriforkids.com/

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts

323 Airport Road, Suite J, Auburn, Al 36830

Offering a complete system of martial arts

Dates: June-July Ages: Ages Preschool and up 334-502-7221 www.auburnacademy.com

Auburn Fencing

229 South 8th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 Camps are for beginner and intermediate level fencers.

Dates: June 1-5, June 8-11 and July 13-17

Ages: Ages 8-15

334-203-1989 www.auburnfencing.com

Auburn Thunder

Auburn, Al 36830

Elite soccer club for boys and girls.

Ages: Ages 9-18 www.auburnthundersoccer.com

H & G Horse Quarters

943 Lee Road 57, Auburn, Al 36830

Come learn how to ride, make new friends and enjoy horses!

Dates: Spring Break, May-Aug 334-887-0026 www.hghorsequarters.com

Moore’s Mill Club Junior Summer Golf Camps

1958 Fairway Drive, Auburn, Al 36830

Come join us for lots of fun and great instruction at Moore’s Mill Club for one of our 3 day summer golf camps! We will cover all aspects of the game.

Dates: Junior Day Camps June-August

Ages: Boys & Girls: K-6th grade (players will be grouped by age and ability)

865-300-0452 www.andrewprattgolf.com/summerjunior-golf-camps

Premier Spirit Academy

923 Stage Road, Auburn, Al 36830

Call about Summer Camps.

Ages: Preschool and up 334-821-7300 www.premierspiritacademy.com

World Champion Taekwondo

300 N Dean Rd, #6, Auburn, Al 36830

Combining traditional and modern teaching techniques and principles to fit all ages and all physical levels - we focus on character development in young children, teens, and adults.

Dates: Summer Ages: Preschool through adult 334-329-7117 www.martialartsauburn.com

Xtreme Athletics

3732 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, Al 36801 Our focus is to develop happy, healthy, responsible and respectful kids through gymnastics and cheer.

Dates: June-July Ages: Preschool and up 334-759-7030 www.xtremeathleticsauburn.com AOP