Prescription opioids can be ADDICTIVE and DANGEROUS. IT ONLY TAKES A LITTLE TO LOSE A LOT. 24/7 HELPLINE 844-307-1760 ALL CALLS ARE CONFIDENTIAL www.alabamapublichealth.gov/pharmacy
Rising 6th-12th Graders & Parents
Educating the Whole Child
STJ POP UP SHOP Saturday, January 26 at 3pm
From Pre-K3 through 12th grade, STJ students, faculty, and administration work together to foster the potential of each child at Saint James School. Visit our
Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten
OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 27 at 1:30pm
state-of-the-art campus and experience first-hand the impact of engaged and experiential learning. Please join us! On Saturday, January 26th, we invite rising 6th-12th grade students and parents to visit our Pop Up Shop where school groups will be available to answer questions and families will have the opportunity to learn about our award-winning extracurricular programs and electives. Our Open House program begins at 1:30pm on January 27th and is full of fun events that will help you and your child experience the complete education offered at Saint James School.
Saint James School FOR OPEN HOUSE RESERVATIONS, VISIT STJWEB.ORG/ADMISSIONS OR CALL
334.273.3021
Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Call today to learn more about merit scholarships and affording a Saint James education for your child. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
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January2019
Volume 24 Number 1
64 Columns
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8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Educational Fun for Young Explorers Places, activities and toys for active minds.
Choosing a Private School
Learn common mistakes parents make and how to avoid them.
16 Montgomery Education Matters by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent
41 Pike Road Education Matters by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.
45 Autauga Education Matters
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by Superintendent Spence Agee
48 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis
53 The College Years by Lee Gonet
54 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between
Private School Guide
Details on River Region private schools including cost, registration dates, curriculum and more.
Making Changes One Behavior at a Time
Ideas for getting your family started on the right foot in 2019!
Common Sense Media
56 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
62 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
102 Get This!
On The Cover Annslie Gourlay (age 18, Senior) participates in cheer and soccer at Macon East Academy, and has attended MEA since K3. She plans to attend Auburn University in the fall. Annslie’s parents are Tim Gourlay and Tammi Fett. Zach Brown (14, 8th grade) participates in football and baseball at MEA. He also enjoys hunting and fishing. Zach’s parents are JJ and Amy Brown. Zola Grace Ward (age 6, Kindergarten) participates in elementary cheer at MEA. Her parents are Tony and Amanda Ward.
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Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 14 Teacher of the Month 18 School Bits 96 Calendar/Support Groups 104 Mom to Mom www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote Happy 2019! This New Year brings with it a couple of exciting items for Montgomery Parents. First, the January issue marks the beginning of our 24th year serving families in the River Region. Of course, this anniversary reminds me of my precious mother-in-law and friend, Marty Watson, who founded Montgomery Parents with my father-in-law, Jim, all those years ago. Marty passed away in 2006 from breast cancer, but she is still remembered and loved by so many, and we are blessed to carry on with Montgomery Parents in her honor! January is also a favorite issue for our staff and readers as we share our 2019 Education Issue and Private School Guide. As we hit the mid-year point of the 2018-19 school year, it’s a good time to reassess where our kids are excelling and where they might be struggling. Is homework a constant battle at your house? Sonia Martin shares some great advice for Taming the Homework Beast on page 8. Common Sense Media reviews six apps and websites that will boost your child’s report card on page 54. If you are parenting the younger crowd, check out Kimberly Blaker’s article, Educational Fun for Young Explorers, where she suggests the best places, activities and toys for active minds. Maybe the middle of the school year has you moving in a different direction for your child’s schooling. If a transition from public or home school to private school is something your family is considering, be sure to read Robert Kennedy’s Mistakes Parents Make When Choosing a Private School. He discusses things you won’t want to overlook like finding the right fit for your child, visiting the school, asking for financial aid and more. Following his article, check out our highly anticipated 2019 Private School Guide. The River Region boasts so many wonderful private schools, including Protestant, Catholic, Independent, and schools for special learning needs. Our advertising partners are highlighted in the guide with their logo and ad page number, plus many of them have included a full page advertorial in this issue to give you extra details on what they would like to offer your child and family. Our Private School Guide is a great resource to keep around all year long, or to share with a new family moving to town as they make decisions about schooling for their children. With the new year, many of us are also thinking about ways we can improve ourselves and our family’s lives in other ways. It could be that you want your family to be more active or maybe have less screen time. It’s a great time to make a fresh start and Christa Melnyk Hines shares tips for Making Changes One Behavior at a Time on page 92. As we embark on our 24th year, we are excited to continue providing you with parenting tips and advice, highlights from local schools about student achievements, a thorough calendar of family activities, Teacher of the Month, plus all your other favorites. Here’s to making 2019 the best yet...from the Montgomery Parents family to yours!
The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source Montgomery Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com
Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Kimberly Blaker Richard Dennis David Drennan, M.D. Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Robert Kennedy Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sonia Martin, LMSW Dr. Ann Roy Moore Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Maria Wiggins www.lolafineartphotography.com
Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com
Associate Publisher Gena Hill Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com
Ad Design Tim Welch Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell
DeAnne
Member
deanne@montgomeryparents.com
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
www.montgomeryparents.com
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One World. One School. One Family. Building life-long relationships through an intentional focus on mentors and leadership
Trinity School is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution providing students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, award-winning fine arts program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. The Trinity Experience is extraordinary in every way—an education that is as unique as your child. If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com. Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families.
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TherapeuticParenting
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by Sonia Martin, LMSW
Taming the Homework Beast Roll down your window in the carpool line and ask any parent what they dread most about after school life and you will likely here that one word that sends shivers down the spines of parents across the country: HOMEWORK. Webster’s defines homework as the following: 1. schoolwork that a student is required to do at home. 2. work or study done in preparation for a certain event or situation. 3. a largely modern American invention designed to sow seeds of anger, strife, frustration and complete chaos into the happiest of homes.
Okay, I may have added the 3rd definition, but let’s just all agree it is the one that is most accurate. As our kids climb into our minivans or come rambling off the school bus, our afternoon conversations typically sound something like this, “Hey bud! How was your day?” Closely followed by, “Do you have any homework? It is right there in that very moment that we steady our coffee cup, hold our breath and whisper sweet notes of please say no, please say no to ourselves. This is the scene we find ourselves in over the course of 180 school days, 40 weeks out of the year, 5 days of the week as we tackle the bitter beast that is homework. Typically, one of three scenarios will then play out. Option 1: Your child happily sits down at the kitchen table for 1.5 hours and dutifully
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
completes his homework while also darning socks, crocheting scarves for refugees and chopping vegetables as he wants you to take the night off from cooking. If that is your child you can stop reading because the unicorn dust serum that you sprinkled in their cribs when they were newborns clearly worked. Option 2: You ask your child nicely to sit at the table and get started on the homework, but 86 minutes later you find yourself midtackle, screaming at the top of your lungs while simultaneously ripping the Xbox remote out of their hand. You are over an hour in and no homework has even been attempted and everybody’s mad. Option 3: Your child lies. Your question of, “Do you have homework” inevitably provokes a response of, “I did it already.” So what to do? A few thoughts… First, offer food. We all know that food raises blood sugar levels, but did you also know that food works to decrease levels of cortisol (the stress hormone)? This biologically helps put your little one in better balance so that your odds of success increase exponentially. So grab some apples and peanut butter, cut up some cheese and crackers, go nuclear and have a bowl of ice cream at the ready – food is foundational. Secondly, make it fun! Grab a sheet on your way out the door to pick them up and
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drape it over your dining room table, throw a couple of couch cushions in there and you suddenly have yourself a magical fort that helps cut down on distractions while providing the child with a fun place to learn. Mix it up a bit and keep finding new spots or ways to make this hard part of the day just a little less hard. Lastly, I will say this. If your child outright refuses, or lies and says they don’t have homework when they do – allow a natural consequence to play out. Do they have to miss the first 20 minutes of art class (and they love art class) because they have to do the homework they didn’t do the night before? Okay! That is a valuable teaching moment! So hang in there, there is hope to be had, and while you are at it, grab yourself another scoop of Rocky Road. Do you have a behavior or parenting question? Shoot me an email at sonia.kidstolove@yahoo.com. I will answer your question in an upcoming issue! *Therapeutic parenting is parenting in a highly structured, highly nurturing way. This form of intensive parenting is often a key to progress in dealing with children who have trauma and attachment challenges, but has also proven beneficial with any child.
Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation. Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent.
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An Expressive Evening at the Art Museum
January 24 * 6-8 p.m. Write. Dance. Sing. Draw. Enjoy a free evening of teen creativity at the Museum! Each year the Muses, the Museum’s teen council, organizes and hosts a tableau of artistic expression presented by local students. Past acts have included poetry, vocal, and instrumental performances. Register by Monday, January 7. For questions, contact Elisabeth at epalmer@mmfa.org.
5th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Citywide Celebration
BTW Magnet High School’s SHOWCASE 2019: Rise Up!
January 11 @ 7 p.m. & January 12 @ 2 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Fully choreographed, designed and executed, this is a Broadway-style production featuring the extraordinary imagination and hard work of the dancers, musicians, writers, photographers and technical talent that comprise the student body at BTW. Limited seats are available for online purchase. To acquire general admission or VIP advance tickets, please visit http://btwfameboard. org. Tickets are $20 each.
January 18 * Davis Theatre, 251 Montgomery Street There is a 10 a.m. matinee and a 6 p.m. evening performance featuring the Montgomery Interfaith Choir. Presentation of the Beloved Community Awards will also be done. This is a collaboration between Friends of the Theatre, Troy University and Alabama State University. Tickets: 10 a.m. matinee $5; 6 p.m. evening show adults $10. For more info, call (334) 2296755 or visit www.keepersofthedream.org/.
Audition for Beauty & the Beast!
Community Healing Nights at Frazer UMC
January 16 & 23 * 5:30-7:30 p.m. Two Community Nights of Healing giving insights from pastors and counselors on facing some of the biggest obstacles to living fully alive. Dinner available. After the presentation, a healing service will be offered to pray for physical, emotional and spiritual wholeness. Topic Jan. 16 is overcoming anxiety and fear; topic Jan. 23 is hope for depression and suicide. For more info, e-mail khendrix@ frazerumc.org or call (334) 495-6397. Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Pike Road Presents the 2019 Crossroads Theater Production: The Long Road to Love
Tickets are available now for the 7th annual production of Crossroads Theater, featuring renowned storyteller Elizabeth Vander Kamp and her presentation of The Long Road to Love - Stories of the Human Heart. Vander Kamp exquisitely captures the complexities of love in this story of drama and discovery. In the setting of a theatre company, two people meet, and it is love at first sight. A prior engagement and an onstage love story create suspense that carries you through the years of their entangled lives... How will this story end? Join us to find out! The event will be held in the Mezzanine at Pike Road Town Hall (9575 Vaughn Rd.) on Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m., which makes it the perfect Valentine’s Day date!
The Alabama Dance Theatre will host an open children’s audition for Beauty & the Beast on Sunday, January 27, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Parts include town children, bakers, cherubs and sweets and are available for boys and girls first grade and up. Those auditioning will be judged on acting, dancing ability, and musicality. The audition fee is $35 (refunded if not selected). Beauty & the Beast will be performed March 1-3 at Troy University’s Davis Theatre. Auditions will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, located at 1018 Madison Avenue. For more info, call (334) 625-2590. 10
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ASF Presents Four Little Girls: Birmingham 1963
January 25-February 13 Written by Christina Ham; directed by Tangela Large. Four little girls— Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Addie Mae Collins—are multitalented and filled with promise, sharing their hopes and dreams against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. Produced in collaboration with Montgomery Public Schools. Recommended ages 11+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.
January 1819 * 5 p.m. check-in; 9 a.m. checkout Sat. Spend the night in the Discovery Hall with some of our resident animals, roast s’mores around the fire, take part in animal encounters, go on a night hike... and so much more! $13 per attendee; tickets must be purchased online by end of day Jan. 17. Space is limited. Recommended minimum age is 6. Minimum 1 adult per 3 children. Contact Tyler at tburgener@alabamawildlife.org or (334) 285-4550 for details or booking.
Second Saturdays @ Old Alabama Town
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Second Saturdays bring special programs for the whole family including crafts, music, lectures and more! For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com/.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
My Throat Hurts How many times have our children stated this complaint in the course of a year? Sore throats are very common symptoms for both children and adults and are caused by an inflammation or irritation in the back of the throat and around the tonsils. The medical term for this condition is pharyngitis, and the etiologies in the pediatric/adolescent age group include viral and bacterial infections, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis, environmental issues and gastro-esophageal reflux. Viral infections are the most common causes and amount to about 70% of the total yearly cases. Such viruses as Influenza A&B, Adenovirus, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), Epstein-Bar virus (mononucleosis virus), and Rhinovirus are just a few of the many viruses that can cause pharyngitis as well as other symptoms in the pediatric patient. The common symptoms and signs of these infections can be as follows: pharyngitis or sore throat; headache, runny nose, bodyaches, muscle-aches, fever mostly low grade, cough, and decreased appetite.
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
These viral infections do not require antibiotics unless there is a bacterial complication. Bacterial pharyngitis, mainly from Group a beta-hemolytic Streptococcus occurs in greater numbers in winter thru spring and account for 30% of throat infections in children/adolescents. Other bacteria such as Pertussis (whooping cough) and Diphtheria are also causes of bacterial pharyngitis but to a much lesser degree. The symptoms and signs of Strep pharyngitis that distinguish it from viral infections include fever greater than 100 degrees F., significant pus or exudate on the tonsils, enlarged painful neck lymph nodes, a red sandpapery fine rash on face and body, a fine red rash on the roof of mouth, the absence of mouth or gum ulcers and usually no symptoms of cough or runny nose. The patient with Strep disease may also have some of the common symptoms of decreased appetite, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, body-aches and muscle-aches
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which sometimes are seen with viral infections making it hard to tell the difference between Strep disease and viral etiologies. Usually lab tests such as a rapid strep test with backup throat culture are done to assist the clinician in making the correct diagnosis. If either test is positive or the patient has the clinical signs and symptoms of strep pharyngitis, an antibiotic is prescribed to speed the recovery of the patient, render him non contagious, and prevent some severe complications such as rheumatic fever, nephritis, and abscess of the tonsils. The incubation period is 1-3 days after contact. Children with Strep may return 24-48 hrs. after starting their antibiotic. It is very important not to eat or drink after any one with Strep throat. It is a good practice to change out the toothbrushes after a case of Strep pharyngitis to avoid another infection since the organism is viable for 15 days on moist surfaces. Dr. Drennen earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1975 and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine in Loveland, Colorado. He then practiced in Ozark, Alabama before coming to Professional Pediatrics in 1998. He and his wife Rebecca have two sons. The entire family enjoys downhill skiing and beach activities.
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Join us for Open House and experience how we prepare students to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom. ADMISSIONS QUESTIONS? Contact Admissions Director Julie Lopez Call 334-318-3777 or email jlopez@montgomerycatholic.org
HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS, GRADES 9-12 5350 Vaughn Road 36116 334-272-7220
FAI T H. E X CE L LEN CE. SER V I CE. TH IS IS CATH O LI C. 13
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Kelli Hardin Redland Elementary School
but she has him performing at grade level. She has worked really hard to help him understand math and she has given him the confidence he needed to succeed,” says Shoemaker. When asked how she feels about being nominated by her students’ parents, Kelli says, “It is humbling, and I am honored. We are a team, and I enjoy working with parents to help their children succeed. I have a great group of parents and a strong support system here at Redland. I am very blessed.” Hardin goes on to say, “I want my kids to feel challenged by my expectations for them, but also willing to take chances and learn from failure. I love watching their confidence bloom when they realize they can do things that once looked impossible or that they had failed at before. Also, to treat everyone with kindness. It’s the most important part. Learn to value each other and to always be kind.”
“She really cares about the kids...they can feel that from her and it makes such a difference!” says Karen Brooks, one of the parents who nominated Mrs. Hardin. Kelli has been teaching for more than 20 years and has taught in Auburn City Schools, Pike Road Schools, and at Alabama Christian Academy. She currently teaches at Redland Elementary, located in the community where she and her family live. Most of her teaching career has been in middle school science and math. Math can be a very challenging subject for many kids, but she has a knack for helping her students understand the subject matter. “I want my students to have a trust level with me where they will feel comfortable asking questions and they feel supported. This is not always easy, but when it happens, it is the most rewarding part of my day!” She even makes learning math fun, as Stephanie Dean points out, “Mrs. Hardin has made math fun for my son and she is so patient with him!” Lesli Shoemaker says her son has always struggled in math, but now he’s making A’s. “Mrs. Hardin has helped my son so much in math. He has struggled for years, even in the resource room,
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Kelli Hardin teaches 6th grade at Redland Elementary in Wetumpka, and has been teaching for more than 20 years. She is married to Brian and they have three children: Emma, 19, Judd, 16, and Jake, 9. Kelli enjoys attending Auburn sporting events, cooking and traveling with her family.
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Adding a Resolution We frame things and recognize beginnings – birthdays, anniversaries, and every new year. As we enter 2019, most of us make promises to ourselves; to lose weight, save money, to help improve our health, or our relationships … the list can go on for pages. Here is one you may not have considered – get more involved in your child’s education. Taking just a few minutes each day to read to your young child (or have him or her read to you) can make a huge difference. Not only does it help teach your child how to read, it creates a love of books and learning. Reading also creates a special bond between parent and child.
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Just you and your child with no distractions discovering new facts or exploring a new world as the pages of the book come to life. Another simple way to become more involved in your child’s education this new year is to communicate with his or her teacher(s) through email or by attending PTA meetings or scheduling conferences. You can also keep up with grades, attendance and discipline simply by getting online. You can get your MPS Parent Portal Password by simply going to your child’s school (with a photo ID). Perhaps the easiest way to get more involved in your child’s education is to talk to him and her about school. The old standby “What did you learn in school today?” is an excellent way to get involved. Just don’t accept “Nothin” as an answer. If your child insist he or she didn’t learn anything, it really is time for you to get involved. My guess is, once your child knows you are interested, he
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or she will begin to communicate more about their work in school and what they are learning. It is easy to get caught up in jobs, bills, our own worries, and forget to take a few minutes each day to check on our children’s progress in school. Just build in a few minutes each day. It can be a bedtime story for the younger children, or a discussion over breakfast or dinner about an older child’s progress at school. Then spend a couple of minutes on the computer to check grades. But whatever you do, getting involved in your child’s education will pay huge dividends. And believe me when I tell you, it is much easier than most resolutions - like losing weight. Dr. Ann Roy Moore is a teacher. For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion.
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Montgomery County Schools
Academy’s Katz Signs with Tennessee
Montgomery Academy senior Tara Katz signed a letter of intent to play soccer at the University of Tennessee. Katz has been a member of the MA soccer team that has earned four state championships over the last five seasons. Tennessee capped off a successful season last year that ended in the NCAA quarterfinals with a loss to Stanford.
Park Crossing Student First in Nation in 60-Meter Dash
Park Crossing High School student Jasmine Riley is setting the pace for girls in high school track and field. She is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation in the indoor track 60-meter dash. This is not Riley’s first time in the national rankings, either. Last year, she was ranked fifth in the nation in the 100-meter dash. She is shown with, from left, Montgomery County of Education member Lesa Keith, Superintendent Ann Roy Moore and Senior Communication Officer Tom Salter. She was being recognized during the board’s March 2018 meeting for her first national ranking. She is scheduled to be recognized by the board once again for her latest accomplishment.
Byrom is MEA’s Spelling Bee Winner
Macon East Academy students in 4th through 8th grades compete annually in grade level spelling bees. Class winners and alternates attended the AISA District Spelling Bee on November 14. At the district competition, Kaiden Byrom (7th grade) won first place, Lalah Culpepper (4th grade) and Sophia Merz (6th grade) placed 2nd, and Ryan Russell (8th grade) finished in 3rd. Byrom represented Macon East on December 6 at the AISA State Spelling Bee at Huntingdon College and came in third place! She has represented Macon East at the AISA Spelling Bee every year since she was in 4th grade. Macon East Spelling Bee winners and alternates include: (4th grade) Lalah Culpepper and Bella Chambers; (5th grade) Elise Logan and Elliot Fitch; (6th grade) Sophia Merz and Matthew Pugh; (7th grade) Kaiden Byrom and Dee Dee Frazier; and (8th grade) Ryan Russell and Anna Glynn Lott. Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Lee Theatre Club Cleans Up at Cultural Arts Festival
The Robert E. Lee High Theatre Club had a great showing at the Southeast Alabama Community Theatre Cultural Arts Festival in Dothan, racking up several first-, second- and third-place finishes. Alexis Carter won first place and Charles Hunter won second place in the Monologue category. Amaya Steele and Asaiah Thompson won second place in the Duologue category, and Thompson and Joey Bell won third place in the same category. Finally, Hunter won first place in the Southeastern Theatre Conference Category. This talented group is led by theater teacher Jasmaine McCorvey. 18
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Montgomery County Schools
GEARS, Inc. Makes Strong Showing At Robotics Competition
ACA Pancakes with Santa
Alabama Christian Academy’s annual Pancakes with Santa event was an incredible way to start off the Christmas season. ACA band students sold more than 900 tickets and families from all over the River Region enjoyed food, fellowship and photos with St. Nick!
The Eastwood/Cornerstone Schools’ GEARS, Inc. robotics team had a strong showing at the South’s Best Robotics Competition in Auburn. The team was composed of students from Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy and Eastwood Christian School. The students won 1st place for Most Robust Robot (fewest repairs needed), 1st place for Teamware (tshirt) Design, 3rd place for Robotics Competition, and 4th place Overall BEST.
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MA Speech & Debate Earns Nat’l Recognition
The Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate team has earned significant recognition from the National Speech & Debate Association. Because the MA chapter achieved a total of 300 or more degrees last year, it is ranked among the top 5% of schools nationwide and has earned membership in the Association’s prestigious Societé de 300. This milestone is remarkable because it demonstrates outstanding commitment to teaching students essential life skills–including communication, research, listening, writing and organization. The MA Speech & Debate program is led by Jay Rye.
Macon East Participates In Tomatosphere Program
Macon East Academy first-grade teacher Ashley Powell first introduced the Tomatosphere Program to the school’s 1st-6th grade students at the Environmental Fair last spring. In April, each student planted two experimental tomato seeds. Of the seeds planted, 80 of the control Group J seeds germinated, while 102 of the Group K seeds germinated. Group K seeds had spent six weeks on the International Space Station before being sent to Macon East and planted for our experiment. In early May, the young plants were moved outdoors where the students continued to tend them and monitor growth. At the end of the school year, 121 students got to take a tomato plant home and care for it over the summer break. One teacher took 10 plants (five from each test group) home for the summer. Throughout the break, Powell and the students shared pictures and reports on how the tomato plants were progressing. Experiment results showed that both Group J and Group K plants thrived and produced a healthy crop of tomatoes. Macon East students are proud to have received recognition for their participation in the Canadian Space Program’s experiment. The study of space farming is critical to the study of life support systems needed to send humans to other planets. 21
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SUA Art Students Chosen for Exhibition
Six talented Success Unlimited Academy art students were selected to exhibit their entry in the Faces of Alabama Bicentennial Youth Art Exhibition, Portraits of Significant Alabamians. The art exhibit was displayed through November at the State Capitol. Out of 4,000 students who submitted artwork, 150 entries were chosen for the exhibition. The following SUA students were among them: top row from left: Jaelan McNeil, Nikki Atkins and Sarah Durr; bottom row: Akeithia Johnson, Caroline Key and Charity Jenkins.
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ACA Baseball Team Lights Up Resident’s Home
Montgomery resident Mrs. Turney, age 82, wanted lights put up on her house for Christmas. The Alabama Christian Academy baseball team made a trip to Turney’s home and made her wish come true. Thank you to the students, Coach Guice, Coach Gilliam and We Serve for making this a merry Christmas for Mrs. Turney.
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Montgomery Academy Names Athletic Director
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Montgomery’s Kirk Jay Speaks at Success Unlimited Academy’s Chapel
Excitement was in the air when Kirk Jay, a Montgomery resident and contestant on The Voice, recently visited Success Unlimited Academy during chapel. The Montgomery resident delivered a moving testimony of his sudden success and how it has changed his life. He also surprised the students with his smooth, country sound while presenting a “mini concert” that made all feel a “little bit country!” Students were allowed time to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed conversation with the contestant. Jay’s contagious spirit and message encouraged students to reach for their dreams, never give up and to remain focused. Chapel participants prayed over Jay, asking favor and blessing on his life and future. He is pictured with Mrs. Wilson’s first-period history class.
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Montgomery Academy Head of School John McWilliams recently announced that Interim Athletic Director Gary Nelson will be filling the position permanently. “Over the course of the past six months as interim athletic director, Gary Nelson has brought tremendous passion, enthusiasm and energy to his new position while continuing his coaching career as head coach of the varsity football team,” said McWilliams. “Gary is completely dedicated to the mission of this school, and he understands the important role that athletics can play in leadership and character development.” Nelson has been coaching and teaching at The Montgomery Academy since 2012. He is a graduate of Huntingdon College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in history and played football for the Hawks. He earned his master’s in secondary education from Auburn University of Montgomery. He is married to Stephanie and they have two children, Sam and Lucy.
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STJ Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Julian McPhillips Wrestling Invitational Saint James School held the State Wrestling Championship title for 1A-4A in 2013 and was runner-up for the same in 2014. “We are on a great track this year for a standout season,” said Corley. “We have eight seniors who returned to wrestle this year and we are ranked in the Top 5 in the state, 1A-5A. We are look-ing forward to a strong finish this year.”
A long-standing tradition in the state of Alabama, the Julian McPhillips Invitational Wrestling Tournament is scheduled for January 4 and 5, at Saint James School. The highly competitive tournament is by invitation only and will host 22 teams this year, 1A-7A. Always held the first weekend in January, the Invitational Tournament is named in honor of a vital supporter of the wrestling program at Saint James, Julian McPhillips of Montgomery. In 1997, McPhillips was instrumental in expanding the school’s field house and adding a wrestling room. The school had not had a wrestling team before, but with his support, Saint James launched its first wrestling season and, in 1998, the first tournament was held bearing McPhillips’s name. The tournament was canceled one year due to inclement weather predictions statewide, so the 2019 tournament marks the 20th anniversary of the tournament for the Trojans. In his tenth year of coaching at Saint James and in his fourth season as head wrestling coach, Jeff Corley said, “We are all so appreciative to Mr. McPhillips for what he has contributed over the years to our Saint James wrestling program. Mr. McPhillips is personally involved in the tournament each year – he attends the awards ceremony at the end of the weekend to help us recognize the teams and individuals who have worked so hard to achieve their success. The tournament is a highlight of our season each year. It’s a tough tournament in terms of competition, but we are honored to host it at our school every January.”
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Trinity’s Bright Signs with Auburn University
Trinity Presbyterian School senior Trace Bright signed his letter of intent to play baseball at Auburn University during a signing ceremony on December 7. Bright was the recipient of the Trinity Presbyterian School Batting Average Award in 2018 (0.358) and led the team in Runs (33), Hits (38), RBIs (30), Doubles (9) and Homeruns (3) for 2018. He was selected to play in the 2018 East Coast Pro Showcase and the 2018 AHSAA Baseball All-Star Team (South). He was named to the 2018 1A-4A All-Metro Baseball 1st Team and the 2018 Class 4A ASWA All-State 2nd Team. Bright was also recognized as 1A-4A All-Metro Baseball Honorable Mention in 2016 and 2017. Bright plans to major in pre-dentistry.
College Night @ The Rock
High school students and parents of The Rock School participated in the third annual College Night @ The Rock event. Our school college and career advisor provided a College 101 presentation, while admissions officers from ten colleges and universities provided valuable information about their respective institutions, their applications processes, how and when to apply for financial aid, and provided personalized meetings with each student. The Rock School delivers a college preparatory curriculum, with its graduates being accepted to 30+ colleges and universities nationwide, with the last three classes combined garnering $400,000 in scholarships. Discover the rewards at The Rock, www.rockwarriors.org or 260-8808. 25
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ECA Students Support Local Food Bank
The students from Evangel Christian Academy recently participated in a food drive to help people in need. To make the drive more exciting, the school decided to have a contest between teachers. Two teachers from the high school and two teachers from the elementary were chosen to compete. The teacher in each division that collected the most cans would be “saved.” The teacher who had the least number of cans would receive a pie in the face. Each teacher encouraged students to bring in cans to help “save them.” Coaches Haley Rosa and Andy Whatley competed in the high school division. Tina Perdue and Vickie Cole competed in the elementary division. After a fierce competition, the students brought in more than 1,000 cans. In an unexpected turn of events, the teachers in both divisions tied. Instead of being “saved,” all four teachers were pied in the face with chocolate pies with whipped cream. The elementary teachers wore creative outfits to help protect them from the sticky situation they found themselves in!
BTW Students Win Awards, Scholarships at Trumbauer Theatre Festival
Booker T. Washington Magnet High students brought home a number of awards and a pair of scholarships from the State Trumbauer Secondary Theatre Festival at Troy University. BTW sent 28 students to the festival from the theatre, musical theatre, and technical theatre magnets along with two students from photography and creative writing. The highest rating at the festival is Superior, and the second highest is Excellent. Out of 25 individual events, BTW students received 22 Superior ratings and three Excellent ratings. In addition, Louis Chatman, Antonavia Collins, Antonisia Collins, Jalyn Crosby, Aleari Felton, Trinity Ross and Nia Tuck placed first in the Group Musical category. Meanwhile, Keyanna Dixon and Kate Harrington placed second, and Del’Kyra Williams, Ryann Smith and Felicia Hamilton placed third in their respective categories. The BTW studio show, Eclipsed, received recognition as well. Under the direction of Ross, Eclipsed received one of the three Best in Show trophies for studio shows. Not only that, Williams, Felton and Raevyn Pritchett were named to the All-Star Cast; Antonavia Collins received the Best Supporting Actress Award; and Antonisia Collins received the Best Actress Award. The night before the Trumbauer competition, seniors had the opportunity to audition for scholarships. Crosby received a full scholarship to Troy University’s Summer Spotlight Performance Intensive, and Ross received a $1,000 Performance Scholarship from the Alabama Conference of Theatre, which is good for any college in the state of Alabama.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
A Walk Down Dexter
Success Unlimited Academy seniors recently spent a day in downtown Montgomery for a historical tour. History teacher Rhonda Wilson had planned and arranged the field trip for the students. The Alabama State Capitol, the Supreme Court Building and Library, the Senate and House of Representatives’ Chambers, and the Martin Luther King Memorial Baptist Church were among the many sites visited during the tour. “It was a walk that will be remembered,” one student said. SUA seniors listened carefully as the docents and volunteers at each site shared interesting historical facts and information. Students were chaperoned by Coach Marc McDonald, Rhonda Wilson and John Beard. Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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Trinity Food Service Staff Serves with a Smile
Tammy Butts is the food service director for Southern Food Service at Trinity Presbyterian School. The food service staff received an outstanding 100 on its recent health score. In the kitchen, Butts and her staff serve the Trinity students and faculty with a smile in a godly setting. Trinity’s kitchen offers a healthy lunch program with a variety of healthy food choices. The Southern Food Service staff enjoys serving and cooking for the Trinity School. This picture of the group is from Thanksgiving 2018.
MEA Holds Readers’ Party at the Park
Macon East Appreciates Campus Security
The lower school students from Macon East Academy enjoyed a day at the park as a reward for meeting or exceeding their Accelerated Reader goals for the first nine weeks. Macon East students continue to excel with reading scores above grade level. Leigh Desmarais, school librarian, hosts quarterly events for students who meet their reading goals. Accelerated Reader tracks reading comprehension through online quizzes, guides students to read books on their skill level, and sets reading goals that encourage progress.
Macon East Academy students and faculty appreciate the work of our off-duty sheriffs with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department who provide our daily campus security.
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Pike Road Fire Department Visits MEA
It is always an exciting day when the Pike Road Fire Department visits the pre-school students at Macon East Academy. Every child loves the thrill of sitting in the driver’s seat of the big ladder truck wearing their firefighter hat. Macon East is so appreciative of their partnership with the Pike Road Fire Department. Each year, the firefighters teach our students the importance of fire safety, what to do in case of fire using the fire simulation trailer, and let the students have fun checking out the fire engine. To show their appreciation, Macon East lower school faculty and students present the local firefighters with a basket of goodies to keep at the fire station. Shown are Mrs. Mills’ preK4 class, and Ms. Lawrence’s kindergarten class.
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Trinity Students Enjoy Christmas Learning
Trinity Presbyterian School’s kindergarten students counted and sorted the ingredients in reindeer chow (before they ate it, of course), calculated how many stockings Santa had to buy for all of his reindeer, and used their engineering skills to design bridges to help the gingerbread man avoid being eaten by the fox!! They also had a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus before watching The Polar Express with their 5th-grade buddies!
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MA Cheerleaders Secure Bid to National Competition
The Montgomery Academy competitive cheer squad finished in second place in the UCA Southern Championship and earned a bid to the National Competition in Orlando this February!
SUA’s Drama Department Presents The Christmas Carol Rag
Success Unlimited Academy’s student and faculty cast captured the attention of their audience as they told the traditional story of Ebenezer Scrooge with a new twist! In the spunky take on the Dickens classic, called The Christmas Carol Rag, the story of Scrooge’s redemption is set in the exciting, ragtime world of New York, circa 1911. Evelyn Scrooge runs her sweatshop with an iron fist but slowly opens her heart as she is visited by a Yiddish-spouting Ghost of Christmas Past and a gospel-wailing Ghost of Christmas Present. Mom and daughter duo, Rhonda Wilson and Maisha Hambrick, both on SUA’s faculty, played the ghosts of past and present. Both evening performances drew a packed house. The production was the work of the Fine Arts Drama Department, with Liz Lee directing. Benita Edwards and Sylvia Eastwold were the musical accompanists.
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SUA Music Students Create Bands
Success Unlimited Academy high school music students were given 30-minute intervals to develop a band with peers of their choosing and write a parody to one of the songs students had performed at the school’s recent winter concert. Many of the students in Benita Edwards’ music class struck a chord with their peers as they crafted side-splitting lyrics to the tunes of “Feliz Navidad,” “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night” and “Winter Wonderland.” JJD House of Blues, one of the student bands, comprised of Jaleacia Harris (keyboards), Jaya Armstrong (guitar) and David Powell (vocals), was just one of the hilariously funny groups to perform songs about everything from being at a new school to the woes of having siblings! Students learned the value and power of collaboration.
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Trinity’s Coach Coker Named Regional Coach of the Year
GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME
OPEN HOUSE February 7th 5:30PM - 7PM Evangel Christian Academy
Analyn Coker, Trinity Presbyterian School’s varsity girls’ soccer coach, was selected as Regional Coach of the Year by the United Soccer Coaches organization. After the 2018 Trinity Varsity Girls’ State Championship, Coker was selected as State Coach of the Year, qualifying her to be a candidate at the regional level. She will receive her award in a ceremony in Chicago in January.
Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential
AISA Blue Ribbon School “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA
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Academy Art Students Selected for Exhibition
Eleven Montgomery Academy Upper School art students had work selected for the Faces of Alabama Bicentennial Youth Art Exhibition hosted by the Alabama Arts Alliance. Only 150 works were selected to be on exhibit at the Alabama State Capitol. Students in Connie Deal’s painting class had the opportunity to view the show and see their work on display. Alabamians portrayed by MA students included: Channing Tatum by Venus Avezzano, Zelda Fitzgerald by Abby Baird, Tallulah Bankhead by Ann Cobern Chapman, John Pelham by John Stabler Gallion, Nat King Cole by Macon Jones, Ralph Abernathy by Jihyun Kim, Harper Lee by McDowell Lee, Hank Williams by Elizabeth Monroe, Helen Keller by Anna Munson, Bear Bryant by Garrett Scott and Willie Mays by Elisabeth Spencer. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Saint James School Robotics Headed to State Competition The Saint James Middle School Robotics team was awarded high honors at the Alexander City First LEGO League 2018 Qualifier at Central Alabama Community College on December 9. The team competed in a pool of nine schools and just three advanced to the State competition – including Saint James! “The team has practiced twice a week after school since September,” said the Saint James team sponsor, Dane Hawk. “The team had to design a robot to complete ‘missions’ since the competition was ‘Into Orbit,’ a space-based game. The robot game lasted 2 1/2 minutes, and we had to complete as many missions as we could. The points for each mission varied.” Hawk said the team was also judged on a project where it had to determine a problem astronauts deal with in long-term space travel and create a solution to the problem. The team presented its solution to a panel of judges and answered questions from the judges. “We were also judged on robot design where the team explained the planning and building process, demonstrated the robot, and answered questions,” Hawk said. “Finally, they were judged on a presentation of the Core Values on First LEGO League.”
The First LEGO League expresses the FIRST philosophies of Gracious Professionalism and Coopertition (eg: cooperative competition) through its Core Values: Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas. Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve problems. Impact: We apply what we learn to improve our world. Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences. Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together. Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do! “I cannot describe how proud I am of these students,” Hawk said. “They are so committed, driven, creative, and articulate for such young students. We will be
practicing regularly when we return from winter break to be prepared for State this spring in Huntsville. I know they will be phenomenal!”
The Saint James Middle School robotics team, with team sponsor Dane Hawk, are from left, Lily Everett, Carter Miller, Tucker Byrd, Will Alexander, Dwight Parker and J.T. Burton.
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Trinity Seniors Sign Baseball Scholarships With Lawson State and JSU!
Trinity Presbyterian School senior Chantz Henry, left, signed his letter of intent to play baseball at Lawson State and senior Camden Lovrich signed his letter of intent to play baseball at Jacksonville State University. Both had separate signing ceremonies in December.
Macon East Football Team Finishes Season in 3A Division Play
Saint James School Honors High Achievement
On November 30, the Saint James High School came together to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of several classmates. The students honored in the Saint James Fall Recognition Assembly achieved extraordinary excellence on national tests and exams in the past year. From perfect scores on Advanced Placement exams to sections of the ACT, these students are exemplars of what blending talent, effort and drive can accomplish. Scoring a perfect score of 36 on a section of the ACT (ie: English, Reading, etc) were Kylie Eng, Elizabeth Headley, Trinity Hunter, John Latner and Will Moore. Notably, Hunter and Moore each earned a perfect score twice on the Reading section of the ACT. Eight students scored a perfect 5 on an Advanced Placement exam. These scholars included Christine Choi and Amanda Grate for Studio Art: 2-D Design; Hunter and Moore for AP Language and Composition; Trevor Otis for AP European History; Latner and Moore for AP U.S. History; and Eng and Sam Prickett for AB Calculus. And three students were recognized as AP Scholars – which means they earned an average grade of three or higher on three or more AP exams. The AP Scholar designation was awarded to Izabel Cabral, Moore and Prickett. After taking the AP exams in May 2018, several recent Saint James alumni were also designated AP Scholars for a total of 21 Saint James students named AP Scholars for 2018. Annually, Saint James hosts an Awards Day assembly in the spring to recognize a myriad of student achievements ranging from individual college scholarship announcements to the Yale Book Award to the highest average in a subject. And each fall, school administration honors each student who has achieved extraordinary excellence with national recognition. Shown from left are: Kylie Eng, John Latner, Trevor Otis, Trinity Hunter, Will Moore, Academic Dean Susan Atkins, Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore, Amanda Grate, Christine Choi, Sam Prickett, Izabel Cabral and Lizzy Headley.
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For the second year in a row, the Macon East Academy Knights football team has battled into the AISA playoffs only to come up short in the semifinals. This year with the move back to 3A competition, the Knights faced some teams they had not played in recent years. An injury to quarterback Tucker Neven early in the year and a season-ending injury to newcomer Cephus Cleveland challenged the team’s offense, but didn’t stop the Knights from adjusting their game plan. A 10-8 loss at Pike early in the season haunted the Knights, who had only one other season loss at Monroe Academy (49-28), and set them up to enter the play-offs against powerhouse Morgan Academy. The Knights came out on top in the first round of playoffs surprising Morgan with a win in Selma for the first time in six attempts. Neven completed 18 of 31 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns as the Knights pulled away from the Senators in the second half. On November 9, the Knights returned to Monroe Academy to face the defending AAA State Champs in round two. The Volunteers, who would go on to reclaim the title in Troy the next week, proved to be more than the Knights could handle in a 45-7 loss. Although a disappointing loss for the nine seniors and the team, the Knights are proud of their 9-3 overall season record in their first season back in the AAA classification. Four seniors, Jackson Ceman, Connor Higbe, Tucker Neven and Brock Taunton, went on to represent Macon East on the West team at the AISA All-Star Football game at Cramton Bowl on November 30. Neven was named MVP of the West team, receiving the 2018 John Faircloth Award. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Montgomery Catholic Students Bring Christmas Joy to the Children’s Center For students at the Montgomery Public Schools Children’s Center, some extra cheer was delivered right to their classrooms in December. Throughout holiday season, the Montgomery Catholic high schoolers had been preparing for a special surprise for the Children’s Center School (CCS). Groups of MCPS students “adopted” different classes at CCS, shopped for gifts for each student, and gift wrapped them all. As a special treat, the MCPS students hand-delivered gifts to each CCS student and threw a party complete with face painting, crafts, and balloons. Santa Claus made a surprise visit to all the classrooms and visited with students. Teachers were also given cleaning supplies and blankets for each classroom. For many of the MCPS students, this visit embodied the spirit of the season. “I really enjoyed delivering gifts to our buddies,” said senior Chris Waring. “The most important thing about Christmas is giving, and I feel that we were able to give them the spirit of Christmas through our gifts, our songs, and our friendship.” For some students, like freshman Aniya Lowery, this trip was deeply personal. Her sister, Audia, is a student at CCS and requires round-the-clock care. “This made me happy because I got to see smiles from both the CCS and MCPS
students,” said Aniya, who accompanied her sister for the festivities. “I am also glad that the other MCPS students were so excited to participate and were willing to spend their afternoon here.” The partner program between Montgomery Catholic and the Children’s Center started in the Fall of 2017. MCPS teacher Stefanie Nelson organizes each trip that the high schoolers take. Every Wednesday during the school year, students from the MCPS high school campus visit CCS to spend time with the children there. Engaging in activities such as physical therapy and playtime, the high schoolers get to make some new friends while learning about stewardship to others and the important role that the CCS has in the community. The kids at the Children’s Center look forward to seeing their high school buddies each week, and it is an enriching experience for all the students. “I think the fact that so many of our high school students chose to give up an afternoon of studying for final exams, or hanging out with their friends, shows that the Children’s Center is an even bigger blessing to us and our students
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than we are to them,” said Nelson. “I’m proud to be a part of a community that truly is growing students into servant leaders.” Johanna Hubbard, principal of the Children’s Center, expressed her appreciation of the MCPS students. “This partnership has become one of the greatest blessings our school has ever received,” she said. “The smiles on our students’ faces when they see their brothers and sisters come in are evidence of the genuine love they feel from MCPS students and faculty. What began as a service project a year and a half ago has grown to be an extension of our family, and we could not be more grateful.”
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ACA Conducts Digital Detox
Alabama Christian Academy challenged its student body with a “digital detox.” During the week, students were encouraged to spend less time on their phones and to be mindful of how their time is spent on Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook. To end the week, campus counselors Beth Camp and Cecelia Porterfield met with parents to talk through how to navigate their kids through this digital age. It was a major win for our school to come together and be reminded that people matter and our devices can sometimes hinder our relationships.
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SUA’s Studio Art Students Celebrate Creativity
Students in the Studio Art Club celebrated Christmas and their creativity as artists prior to Christmas break. The Studio Art students meet weekly for open studio directed by Barbara Grimes, Success Unlimited Academy’s art instructor. Open studio time allows art students the opportunity to work at their own pace on art pieces due in class, or even for art competitions. Grimes is available to guide the students in exploring new techniques and thinking outside the box as they create a multitude of exceptional works. During their last meeting before the Christmas break, students shared together with a pizza lunch and baked goodies for all. The time together ended with a gift exchange and a quick game of Pictionary on the Smartboard.
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Cornerstone Students Hold Panel On Founding Fathers
ECA Holds Patriotic Program
Evangel Christian Academy recently held a special chapel service honoring veterans from all branches of the military with a special concert. Students from elementary, middle school, and high school participated by singing patriotic songs under the direction of ECA’s music teacher, Christina Brown. Pastor Michael Rippy, pastor of Evangel Church and president of Evangel Christian Academy, and Micah Brown, a student from Evangel Christian Academy, prayed during the ceremony.
Christmas Joy @ Trinity
A group of 10th- and 11th-grade students at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy recently held a panel discussion on the topic, “Was America designed to be a Christian Nation?” The student panelists gave addresses on the topic from the perspective of several founding fathers. The founding fathers represented were Thomas Jefferson by Daniel Price, Benjamin Franklin by John Scott, James Madison by Kathryn Hardgrave, and John Adams by Collin Horne. The panel tackled primary source readings from The Federalist Papers, the letters of Jefferson to John Adams, and the voluminous written correspondence of these men during the 1700s. After their presentation the panel fielded audience questions.
Trinity kindergartners gave their final performance of the annual Christmas Program— ”The Joy of Christmas.” The audience was reminded once again that “Christmas isn’t Christmas ‘til it happens in your heart!”
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Montgomery Academy Students Compete in Technology Competition
A team of Upper School computer science students competed recently in a Raspberry JAM hosted by TechMGM, a program of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. A Raspberry JAM is a competition using Raspberry Pis, which are small and affordable computers that students use to learn programming. Each team had to develop a solution to a problem with a Raspberry Pi using Bluetooth technology as an enabler. They then pitched their solution during a threeminute presentation with a video of the system working before a panel of judges. The judges evaluated each team’s ability to meet the requirements of the presentation, creativity, innovation and professionalism. There were about 200 people in attendance and eight teams competing from Montgomery area high schools. The Montgomery Academy team “Dark Side” was made up of Riley Harris, Cooper Horn, Travis Thompson and Jeb Tucker. Their business proposal was called Personnel Attendance System (PAS), which automates the attendance process. The concept uses the Raspberry Pi and Bluetooth RFID cards to track people entering and leaving a building. Got news? Send us your school bits by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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Churchill Academy Presents Winter Program
Churchill Academy Lower School students worked under the direction of Nelda Williams to create and perform the school’s annual winter program. This year’s program was the “flip side” of the album at Ruby’s Diner for the Jingle Bell Jukebox, featuring holiday favorites such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” and “All I Want for Christmas,” among others. On December 6, family and friends gathered to enjoy the program as Churchill high school volunteers helped serve throughout the evening. The Churchill Academy Parent Association hosted a reception following the event, complete with a visit from Santa Claus! Students had a chance to celebrate the evening and the holiday season while visiting with the honored guest direct from the North Pole. Many thanks go to Thorington Road Baptist Church for hosting the entire evening along with live-streaming the event for longdistance members of the Churchill Academy family, and again, to Mrs. Williams for all of her hard work in creating this magnificent program. Photo credit: Ezekiel Dudley
MEA Volleyball AISA State Champs
The scene was set on the afternoon of November 30, for an AISA grudge match between Macon East Academy and the Edgewood Wildcats, but no one could have predicted the sweep. After losing to Edgewood three times in the 2018 regular season, the MEA Lady Knights dominated the Wildcats to easily reclaim the state title in just three sets. MEA has earned the title of AISA AA State Champs in volleyball seven times since 2011, losing once in 2016. This year, the Knights took the Wildcats by surprise, handing them their first loss all season in a three-set sweep (25-18, 25-21, 25-15) at the Montgomery Multiplex. The Knights dominated the floor, with kills from seniors Madisyn Kennedy and Ariel Brown. With one final stroke from Kennedy, the Lady Knights celebrated. It was a special day for Coach Codi Moon, who took over the program last year with no prior volleyball experience. Junior Emily Brooks and senior Ariel Brown were named to the all tournament team, while Kennedy was selected as tournament MVP. Brown and senior teammate, Anne Turner Cobb, went on to represent Macon East the following Saturday in the AISA All-Star Volleyball game.
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ECA Students Show Off Their Christmas Spirit
Trinity Student Starred in ASF’s Sound of Music
The Student Government Association at Evangel Christian Academy recently sponsored a contest for the middle and high school classes. The students were challenged to choose a Christmas theme and decorated their classrooms. Each class competed to see who had the most festive room. The elementary classes were then invited to tour the rooms. The sixth-grade class won first place with their “Winter Wonderland” theme. The eleventh-grade class came in second with their “Gingerbread House” decorations. Third place went to the tenth grade for their festive “Cozy Fire Pit” theme.
Trinity Presbyterian School 7th-grader Erin Mitchell starred as Louisa Von Trapp in the Alabama Shakespeare Festival production of The Sound of Music. Recently, Trinity Middle School had the opportunity to watch Mitchell and the cast perform. Last year, she starred in the ASF production of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol.
Catholic Students Assist Christmas Clearinghouse
Montgomery Public Librarian Visits The Rock
Sharon Phillips, Montgomery City-County Public Library branch manager, Coliseum Boulevard, visited the students of The Rock School. She provided valuable information regarding Home Work Alabama, Gale Courses and their Learning Express Library. Students also received information regarding the library’s free online tutoring, SAT/ACT prep course and career resource services.
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
The students at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School have been busy sharing the spirit of Christmas with a few families with the help of HandsOn River Region. The MCPS high school Key Club and the middle school Student Government Association adopted needy families to assist HandsOn River Region’s Christmas Clearinghouse. The students shopped for gifts for all family members, including clothes, toys, school supplies, diapers, gift cards, bicycles and other practical and fun items. These gifts help to ease the financial burden on families who could use a little Christmas cheer during the holidays. “Christmas can be a stressful time for those who are struggling to make ends meet,” said MCPS middle and high school Principal Justin Castanza. “For these families, even the simplest gifts can make a huge impact. Our students are proud to support the efforts of HandsOn River Region and we hope that our humble donations will help to make this Christmas a little brighter for these families.” Each year, families in need are paired with groups and organizations who wish to help them during the winter holidays. Around 10,000 individuals—8,000 of whom are children—are helped through the efforts of the Christmas Clearinghouse. Shown above is the high school Key Club. Photo credit: Jeanene Crenshaw. At right are members of the middle school Student Government Association, Jessica Hankins, Sarah Souriya, Andrew Koerner, Dalton DeRamus, Max Barranco, Mason Sylvester and Austin Varner. Photo credit: Mary Kelley. 38
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Montgomery Catholic Students Honor Fallen Veterans with Wreaths On the morning of December 15, after the opening keynote speech from Medal of Honor recipient Retired Army Captain Gary M. Rose, the somber notes of “Taps” played for family members and volunteers who had gathered to place wreaths on the graves of veterans interred at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo. Among those in attendance were middle school students from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School who dedicated their Saturday morning to honoring those who served. MCPS students Sam Roberts, Karson Franklin, Aidan Blum, Hayden Binder, Sarah Souryiah, Ryan Parker, Izzy Priori, Ben Nguyen and Monica Nguyen participated in the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony. They were joined by MCPS high school Principal Justin Castanza, middle school guidance counselor Mary Kelley and high school history teacher and veteran Hollis Johnson. Wreaths Across America is a volunteer organization whose mission is to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach children the value of freedom. Once a year,
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
volunteers from across the United States, at sea, and abroad gather at military cemeteries to lay remembrance wreaths onto the graves of our country’s fallen heroes from all branches of service. This is the 10th year that the Alabama National Cemetery has held this event. “I think it’s important to recognize the sacrifice that our vets have made for our country outside of just Memorial Day and Veterans Day,” said Johnson, who served as a Marine Corps artilleryman. “Christmastime is when families are thinking of their loved ones, so it is a very appropriate time to recognize our vets.” Student Sam Roberts was able to place a wreath on the grave marker of his “Big Daddy,” Air Force Staff Sergeant William Allen King. “I wanted to do something meaningful this season that helped the community,” he said. “It was really special to be able to honor Big Daddy along with all of the other veterans here.” MCPS middle school guidance counselor Mary Kelley organized
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the trip. “It was a tremendous honor and privilege for us to participate in Wreaths Across America this year,” she said. “The event was a moving tribute to all of our veterans who sacrificed so much to protect the freedoms we enjoy every day. We look forward to being a part of this event again.” The wreaths will remain in the cemetery until January. The next Wreaths Across America event at the Alabama National Cemetery will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2019. More information can be found at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. Photo credit: Mary Kelley
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Happy New Year! The beginning of 2019 offers a time to reflect on goals and a chance to refresh ideas and dreams. This is the time to reflect on all the lessons we learned this past year, the growth we experienced from those lessons and how we will be even better as we enter the second semester. The possibilities are exciting and endless. As superintendent of Pike Road Schools, I have several goals for our students, our teachers, our administrators, and our parents. For PRS students I desire continued quality education in an atmosphere conducive to in-depth, meaningful learning. I have no hesitation saying that our students
are talented. At PRS our goal is for every student to experience rigorous curriculum that involves real world problem solving for a real audience and have multiple opportunities to nurture their gifts and talents. For PRS teachers and administrators I desire continuous professional development. The type of training that keeps them abreast of cutting edge education platforms and connects them to other educators around the globe that are discovering what works and how they can work together. At PRS our goal is for teachers to be designers, facilitators, navigators, mentors, encouragers, and leaders who continuously work on improving the learning experiences designed for students and are highly respected experts who have a global impact on teaching and learning. I have no hesitation in saying PRS teachers are the best of the best. For PRS parents I desire additional attractive opportunities for involvement in our schools. At PRS our goal is for parents
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to be an integral part of their students learning. We promote parents asking open ended questions that demonstrate their interest and expectations for their learners. Our parents are valuable partners and members of the school community. As I reflect on the first semester I am pleased with the many goals our school district has achieved. It is great to be part of a community that provides a great deal of support to our schools. I am proud we have a school board that functions as a team and are true advocates for our students. May all your families have a happy, healthy, New Year! Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 28 years. He has earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Chuck Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his ninth year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.
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PRHS Principal Earns District Honor
Pike Road Takes First Place in Tech Competition
Pike Road AP Computer Science students won first place in TechMGM Raspberry Pi Jam. Nine students helped prepare for the competition but only five were able to make it to the actual Pitch Party. The students researched Raspberry Pi because most didn’t have experience with one. With the help of assigned mentors (both from Gunter), the students came up with a problem to solve and then tasks were assigned. The students took the lead in areas of their greatest strengths (programming, building the scene, and preparing the Raspberry Pi). Then they came up with a PowerPoint Presentation to use during the Pitch and students who spoke practiced several times. Students had three minutes to pitch their solution using a MS Powerpoint presentation with an embedded video of the system working before a panel of judges. The judges evaluated the ability to meet the requirements of the presentation, creativity, innovation and professionalism. Some items students had to include were: Embedded video of the system in use; must demonstrate its functions and a team member MUST be in the video wearing an article of clothing with your school name/logo on it State how the system would be implemented and where it could be used Explain a technical challenge your team encountered during development Explain how your team overcame the technical challenge(s) The presentation cannot exceed three minutes in length (points will be deducted if your team goes over three minutes) The competition was a culmination of an exciting National Computer Science week at Pike Road High School in which students were involved in The National Hour of Code, a field trip to 26NOS at Gunter Annex and Cyber Patriot Challenge. The students pictured are Konnor Reybitz, Jacob Martin, Eric Kim, Caden Lockett and Anna Amissah. Those who contributed but weren’t able to make it to the pitch are Nathan Hughes, Dewey Terry, Garrett Shum and William Long. Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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Pike Road High School (PRHS) Principal David Sikes was named the Alabama District Three Principal of the Year. District three expands from Alabama to Mississippi, and there are approximately 60 high school principals in the district. Other principals nominated Sikes based on his experience, accomplishments and peer leadership. Sikes has been an administrator for 19 years and a principal for 17 years. Under his leadership, Floyd Middle Magnet was recognized by the Southern Regional Education Board as having innovative curriculum. While Sikes was principal at Robert E. Lee High School, the adequate yearly progress goals increased from 14% to 100%, and Lee became the first cohort in the state of Alabama to receive the A+ College Ready grant. In addition, during Sikes’ tenure at Lee, the school started an Automotive Technician Program and IT Academy. The school was also recognized by the Secretary of Education for the improvements it made in special education. Under his direction at PRHS, Sikes has added dual enrollment courses, AP courses, career academies, a full athletic program, numerous clubs, and is cohort 11 for the A+ College Ready grant. PRHS is one of only two schools in the state to use Summit Curriculum, an online platform, and recently inducted 47 students into the National Honor Society. “David Sikes has been named the Alabama District Three Principal of the Year and is in the final three for possible selection as the Alabama Principal of the Year, for his outstanding performance,” said Dr. Ledbetter, superintendent of Pike Road Schools. “He has opened two new school buildings in two years, providing organization and stability in situations that could have been chaotic and confusing. Sikes has led his faculty to work with and care for our students and brought about outstanding academic achievement in the midst of our growth. We are proud of David Sikes and are glad he joins the PRS growing list of educators who are being recognized for their excellence.” www.montgomeryparents.com
C5 Takes Field Trip to American Village
Community Five learners recently took a field trip to the American Village in Montevallo. The American Village is an immersive interactive experience where learners get to become a part of the American Revolution. They got to attend a meeting of the House of Burgesses, learn to march in the Continental Army, attend a Sons of Liberty meeting, deliver an important secret message to Paul Revere, and discuss the Constitution with Alexander Hamilton. This experience is already enabling learners to make connections between what they learned there and what they are discussing in class. This unique field trip will also provide learners with an excellent example of what it means to theatrically represent history and historical figures as they begin to work on the Living Timeline of the American Revolution. C5 parents, please look for more information about the presentation of the Living Timeline of the American Revolution.
Pike Road Student’s Single Dropped on iTunes
Parker Allen, an 11th-grader at Pike Road High School, produced a Christmas single that dropped on iTunes in December. The title of the single is “This Christmas.” It was produced in-house at PRHS in Mr. White’s music production class.
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PRMS Robotics Team Qualifies for State
Pike Road Varsity Football Makes History
The Pike Road High School Patriots fielded their first varsity football team this past football season. The team completed its first varsity season with a 6-4 record and made it to the first round of the playoffs. Pike Road was one of only three teams ever to make the playoffs in their first varsity year. Unfortunately, the Patriots fell short to Mobile Christian in the first round playoff game. However, the team did set history by being the first team in Alabama to make the playoffs without any senior players. PRHS currently only goes up to 11th grade and will add its first senior class next year. Since Pike Road does not have its own football facilities, the team played all its games on the road this year. In addition to adding a senior class, the players are excited about athletic facilities that will be added in the near future. A multimillion-dollar renovation is scheduled to be completed before next year on Pike Road High School and will include full athletic facilities. Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
The “Five Amigos” recently won the Brew Tech State Qualifying VEX-EDR robotics tournament against multiple high school teams across the area. This win qualifies the team for the State VEX-EDR Robotics tournament at Auburn University in April. The competitive team is a product of the PRS computer science curriculum.
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PRES Students Treat Teachers to Coffee Bar
Mrs. Creel’s class often sets up a restaurant to serve the teachers at Pike Road Elementary. In December, the kids treated the teachers and staff to a coffee and pastry bar. Students made sweet teats at home, brought them to school and set up a table in the lobby of the school and began serving. Each student had a role: one filled the coffee maker with water, one filled a bowl with sugar, another put out the creamer, some arranged the treats on the table and each student had an opportunity to work the table by taking orders and serving. “When we began this project last year, my objectives were to teach some language skills by reading recipes and math skills by counting our donations and a few life skills, but what my students have learned is so much more than that!” said Creel. “They love our restaurant days and their confidence has grown in their ability to talk to adults, preparing food and the pride of ownership!” Next, Creel’s class plans to set up a salad bar for PRS faculty and staff using the lettuce that was grown by Mrs. Dickerson and Mrs. Franco’s classes.
Pike Road Student Starred in Wetumpka Depot Players Performance
Pike Road High School Theater I, II and III students attended the play Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells on November 26 to support fellow theater student Piper Doyle, who starred in the Wetumpka Depot Players performance. PRHS students gave Piper’s performance a five out of five stars! PRHS has plans to host its first in-house theatrical performance this spring. The department has been conducting musical auditions for its spring production of Little Shop of Horrors. More information regarding this performance will be made available in April. Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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I hope everyone had a great Christmas and is ready for a fantastic 2nd semester. What better way to start off a new year than with good news! Santa Claus came early for some teachers during the Autauga Education Foundation Grant Reception on November 27th. I would like to congratulate the following teachers who received a grant: Donna Strickland and Amy Cruise (ACTC) – Stethoscopes and EKG Machine John Cooper (ACTC) – ACTC Engineering Robot Susan Butts (AHS) - Eagles Landing Laura Fennell (PLES) – STEM Bins Creation Station Jana Wood (PES) – 4th Grade Novel Studies Kacey Powell (PES) – Multitasking Cart for an Efficient and Secure Classroom Janie Jones (PJHS) – Keep Up Caitlyn Denney (PJHS) – Sensory Room Coach Stein and Kali Friday (PJHS) – Learning Around the Classroom
Kristle Sandlin (PJHS) – From Green Screen to Big Screen Amanda Gonzales-Jackson (PJHS) – Genes and Molecular Machines Marchieta Owens (SC) – Projector and E-beam Leisa Lee (MHS) – Jobs that Matter! April Baker (SPED) – Read with Me
Congratulations goes out to the Prattville Junior High School Scholars’ Bowl Team. They traveled to Thompson Middle School for the Thompson Middle School Scholars’ Bowl Tournament. The Cat’s A and B teams each took on pool play that consisted of other junior high teams from the Montgomery, Birmingham, and surrounding areas. The A team swept pool play. They went on to clench the title in a 370 point to 185 point victory over Baldwin Arts and Academic Magnet School ending the day with an overall undefeated record (8-0). Great job, Cats! Prattville High Theatre Director, Blair Dyson, took students to the State Theatre Competition and came away with the title of Studio Theatre State Champs! I want to recognize some accomplishments from the competition. 1st in the State
Aran Franco – Solo Pantomime Female – Novice Jimmy Vest – Solo Pantomime Male – Novice
Cody Kochik and Davis Godwin – Duet Classical Comedic – Novice
2nd in State
Sebastian Younts – Solo Pantomime Male – Novice
3rd in State
Anna Farnworth – Solo Acting Classical Dramatic – Novice Katie Campassi – Solo Acting Classical Dramatic – Varsity Livie Puranen, Kaylee Wesolowski, and Natalee Savage – Group Musical – Varsity Studio Theatre All-Star Cast Katie Campassi (Lady Macbeth) Natalee Savage, Kaylee Wesolowski, and Draven Gonzales (The Three Witches) Livie Puranen and Gabe Moseley (Percussion)
I am looking forward to the many blessings that 2019 has in store for us. I take great pleasure in sharing with the citizens of Autauga County the accolades that our schools, staff members, and students receive. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
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Autauga County Schools
PCA’s Meadows Signs Basketball Scholarship
PPS Gets Traffic Helper
Santa and Mrs. Claus were spotted helping with traffic duty at Prattville Primary before Christmas!
Top 20 state-ranked and Prattville Christian Academy senior Cooper Meadows declared his intent to play basketball with Tennessee-based Union University during a recent signing ceremony. Meadows, a 6’ 6” forward, is a standout player for the top-ranked 3A Panthers. So far this season he’s averaged 21 points and eight rebounds a game. With a varsity record of 75-23, he has 1,239 career points, 711 rebounds, 212 assists, and 162 blocks. Additional career stats include 53% from the field, 40% from the three-point line, and 80% from the free-throw line. “Cooper’s work ethic is unmatched and his competitive spirit drives him to want to improve every day,” said Jason Roberson, PCA’s head basketball coach. “He brings out the best in his teammates through his leadership and the example he sets. I have no doubt that he will have an amazing college career at Union University representing his alma mater well.” Shown, Meadows signs with Union University, an NCAA Division II school, surrounded by family, teammates and PCA’s basketball coaching staff.
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PCA’s Fallen Signs Softball Scholarship
Prattville Christian Academy senior Kathryn Fallen committed to play softball for Samford University during a signing ceremony in the school’s gym. She is the first PCA student to sign a Division I softball scholarship in the history of the program. Fallen has been a tremendous asset to the Lady Panthers since becoming one of the team’s starters in just the seventh grade. She has played outfield, first base and most recently, catcher as the team clinched the 3A state championship last season. She holds the team record for most home runs in a season (12) and career (28) as well as most hits (72) and RBIs (76) in a season. Since 2015, Fallen has been named All-Metro and All-State numerous times. “Kat is a pacesetter and leader for our team,” said PCA head softball coach Stough. “She leads by example and pushes others to be better. We are extremely proud for her to be going to Samford next fall.” Fallen is shown surrounded by family, friends and the Prattville Christian Academy coaching staff. Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Billingsley Engineering and Robotics Team Competes at Shelton State
Billingsley Engineering And Robotics (BEAR) had a great weekend at the BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science & Technology) Competition at Shelton State Community College. The team competed against 21 different schools and placed: Mascot Dance-Off 1st Place; Spirit and Sportsmanship - 1st Place; Marketing Presentation - 2nd Place; Team Exhibit & Interviews - 2nd Place; Web Page Design - 2nd Place; Engineering Notebook 2nd Place; Robot - 6th Place; and Overall BEST Award - 3rd Place. The BEARs went on to Auburn the first weekend in December for the Southeastern Regionals competition, which featured the top 55-60 teams from five different states. 46
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Pine Level Coach Becomes Elf for a Day
Pine Level Elementary Physical Education Coach Brad Porter donned his own elf costume and climbed into a tree at school to get a better view of “behavior” before Christmas. “Of course the kids are getting restless this time of year for Christmas Break,” Porter said. “I had the elf costume and just decided to have a little fun with our K5 class since we were able to finally get outside since the weather was nice. Of course, they knew it was me because I couldn’t cover my beard up, but I was Coach Elf for that class instead of Coach Porter. Their laughter, excitement and giggles were all worth it.”
Prattville Primary Enjoys PJ Day
Prattville Wrestlers Compete in Swede Umbach Tournament
Prattville High School’s varsity wrestlers competed in the Swede Umbach Tournament in Auburn and had several medalists: Jonathan Dury (138) went 6-3 and placed 7th; Jude Coulter (160) went 6-3 and placed 4th; Raiden Tea (170) went 5-4 and placed 7th; Jackson Beidleman (182) went 8-0 placing 1st and was also awarded Best Match; and Chad Nichols (220) went 8-2 and placed 7th.
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Prattville Primary School’s Pajama Day was so enjoyable! We certainly practiced Habit #7... Sharpen the Saw. Special thanks to our APT parent volunteers for popping 628 bags of popcorn! The kids also had
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Happy New Year! The first half of 2018-2019 school year has flown by and we are excited to begin second semester and accomplish great things in all our schools! It gives me great pleasure to recognize three of our staff who have received outstanding awards/appointments recently. Mrs. Lindsay Jordan, Elmore County Career Coach, was announced as a finalist for the Association for Career and Technical Education’s 2019 Career Guidance Award. Mrs. Jordan was selected from nominees throughout the United States and is currently one of five nominees from different regions. She serves students of all ages across the system and has done an exceptional job during her five-year tenure with us. Mrs. Jessica Shields, Guidance Counselor at Holtville Middle School, received the Outstanding Practitioner Award at the Alabama School Counselor Association Conference in November 2018. This award recognizes an outstanding coun-
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
selor whose time is spent primarily in direct counseling services and honors excellence in the actual practice of counseling. Finally, Mr. Frank Hysmith, Transportation Shop Foreman, was selected to serve on the Alabama School Bus Specifications Committee of the Alabama State Department of Education. This important committee is responsible for determining the manufacturing specifications for new school buses sold in Alabama. Kudos to these individuals for jobs well done! I am also thrilled to announce our Teachers of the Year! These individuals were honored by their respective campuses: Claire Stephenson, Eclectic Elementary; Debbie Kendrick and Walter Porter, Eclectic Middle; Mary Jones, Elmore County High; Elizabeth Reed, Holtville Elementary; Nicholas Carlisle and Rachel Jones, Holtville Middle; Jennifer Daniel, Holtville High; Debbie Murphy, Coosada Elementary; Daphne McClendon, Airport Road Intermediate; Susan Barnes and Melissa Nelson, Millbrook Middle, Letitia Ruffin-Johnson, Stanhope Elmore High; Rebecca Bowers, Redland Elementary; Karen Shepherd, Wetumpka Elementary; Sallie Pendergast and Lee Howard, Wetumpka Middle, David Rowe, Wetumpka High; Ken Spivey,
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Elmore County Technical Center; Tonia Caton, Elmore County Alternative Programs. The Elementary Teacher of the Year for the district is Sallie Pendergast, Wetumpka Middle, and the Secondary Teacher of the Year is Jennifer Daniel, Holtville High. Each school’s teacher of the year was selected by their peers and participated in a rigorous interview process from which the elementary and secondary teachers of the year were chosen. The elementary and secondary teachers of the year will advance to the state teacher of the year selection process. Recognizing our remarkable staff is a fantastic way to start the new year! Elmore County is blessed to have a wonderful, caring staff working with over 11,000 students every day. We consider it a privilege to teach and take care of our students, and we look forward to a positive, productive 2019!
Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.
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Wetumpka Theatre Students Rake in Awards
The Wetumpka High Theatre Guild took about 50 students to the State Trumbauer Theatre Festival at Troy University to perform individual pieces and a one-act play, The Fantasticks. Camden Zackery, shown, took 1st Place Solo Acting Contemporary Comedic Varsity and One Act AllStar Cast Member; Michael Armstrong, full-paid summer theatre intensive recipient, an alternate for a $1,000 theatre scholarship to any Alabama college, 3rd Place Solo Musical Dramatic Varsity and One Act All-Star Cast Member; Damien Bowden 2nd Place Solo Musical Dramatic Varsity and One Act All-Star Cast Member; and Cameron Hollenquest received One Act All-Star Cast Member!
Holtville High School and DECA Donate to Children’s Hospital
The Holtville HIgh School student body supported the school’s DECA organization’s state community project by collecting toys for Children’s Hospital of Alabama’s Sugar Plum Shop. Alabama DECA chapters statewide collected more than 600 toys and more than $175 in cash for this project. The Sugar Plum Shop is available to patient’s parents, and allows them to select Christmas presents free of charge for their children. Pictured are Holtville High School Ambassadors and DECA members, with DECA State President Catie Daniel delivering items to Children’s Hospital.
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Elmore County Schools
Eclectic Elementary November Students of the Month
Kindergarten: Kylie Deriso, Ross Ward, Aubree Moses, Summer Duncan, Karsyn Phillips and Hunter Whitehead; 1st Grade: Stella Grace Elliott, Izzy Knight, Abbi Eckert, Khloe Riley and Holden Cantrell; 2nd Grade: Greyson Scanlan, Kambell Shade, Caleb Baltazar and Daisy Thomas; 3rd Grade: Shiyanne Grier, Jessica Watts, Daniel Weldon, Deion Lyles, Brice Robertson and Avery Eason; and 4th Grade: Om Patel, Aubrey Saylor, Landon Prater and Kaden Cantrell
RES Student’s Artwork Chosen for StarBase Patch
Redland Elementary fifth-grader Caleb Warren won an art contest to design the StarBase mission patch at Maxwell Air Force Base. He is shown with RES teacher Becca Bowers.
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Holtville Seniors Sign Softball Scholarships
On November 30, Holtville High School celebrated four seniors who signed to play softball with colleges and universities throughout the United States. Kaylyn Dismukes signed to play with Auburn University, Haley Walker signed with Columbia College in South Carolina, and Cindy Thornton and Jordan Cousins signed with Southern Union State Community College. From left are Kaylyn Dismukes, Haley Walker, Cindy Thornton and Jordan Cousins. Coaches on back row are from left Jared Walker, Daryl Otwell and Chad Law.
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WES Has Surprise Guests
Wetumpka Elementary School received visits from the Grinch, his dog and Cindy Lou Who before Christmas! Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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Holtville Junior Civitan Club Visits Tree Farm with Special Needs Class
On November 26, a few Holtville High School Jr. Civitan students were buddies with students in the Holtivlle Elementary and Middle School Multi-Needs Special Needs Unit. They visited Wadsworth Christmas Tree Farm, where they picked out and cut down a tree for the classroom, took a hay ride, and had a great time with their young friends.
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WMS After-School Program Meets City Officials
Wetumpka Middle School 21st Century students enjoyed a visit from Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis, City Councilman Kevin Robbins and Councilwoman Lynnes Justiss. The students were excited to learn more about the importance of the City Council, how they can positively influence their community, and what it takes to be an elected official.
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Holtville High Canned Food Drive
Holtville High School participated in a canned food drive with Mrs. Johnson’s class donating the most and winning a free breakfast. On November 30, a few Jr. Civitan members took the items to the Montgomery Area Food Bank. It was a big donation totaling more than 1,100 items and 781 pounds of product!
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Elmore County Schools
Wetumpka Wrestlers Place First In Auburn Tournament
December 8 was a special day for the Wetumpka High School wrestling program. For the first time, the team placed first at the varsity Swede Umbach Tournament hosted by Auburn High School. Coaches are David Crunkilton, Thad Porter, Lance Hester and Jeb Brantley.
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ARIS Holds Annual Fun Math Night
On November 15, everyone gathered for a night of math FUN at Airport Road Intermediate. Participants had the opportunity to walk around the school solving math puzzles/problems, play math games, eat free food, and some even won door prizes. We are appreciative to the parents and students who came out to enjoy this annual event.
Wetumpka Elementary Teacher Wins Teaching Award
Wetumpka Elementary teacher Brandy Parnell Ryals has been named the Wetumpka Elementary School Teacher of the Year. She teaches second grade.
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TheCollegeYears Preparing Teens for Life Outside the Nest
by Lee Gonet
Earn College Credit in High School (Part 2):
AP & CLEP Tests AP and CLEP tests provide students with the possibility of earning credit through self-study by simply preparing for and taking an exam. Both programs offer the opportunity to earn up to two years of college credit by passing as few as 15 tests. At less than $100 per test, that represents 60 credits for as little as $1500! Serious, motivated students who plan ahead can save thousands of dollars this way.
Advanced Placement Tests (AP)
The College Board offers high school students access to 38 courses in Science, Mathematics, History, World Languages and the Arts. However, simply taking an AP class is not enough, you must score a 4 or 5 (out of 5) on the $94 test to earn college credit. Also, not all colleges will accept AP scores, and some will only allow you to skip introductory classes without credit, so check the policies of your prospective schools before registering to take an AP test (https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/creditandplacement/ search-credit-policies). These courses and tests provide a great opportunity to save big bucks on your college bill. The average college credit costs approximately $1,000 (factoring in tuition, room & board, books, and fees), and col-
leges will award anywhere from 3 to 8 credits for scores ranging from 3 to 5, the higher the score the more credits you can earn. That’s $3,000 to $8,000 saved for each test taken successfully! Another great aspect about the program is that you don’t have to take a class to take the test. Anyone can pay his or her fee and signup, and several excellent books are available for preparing for specific AP tests. However, exams are only administered by high schools registered with the AP program, so if you are a homeschooler or attend a non-AP school, you must contact the College Board for a list of participating schools and register before November for the exams held in May (888-225-5427 / apstudents@info. collegeboard.org).
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
Like Advanced Placement, CLEP tests are overseen by the College Board. Unlike the AP program, there are no classes to take and the exams are a little less rigorous. The 33 tests are designed to allow high school students to advance past introductory college classes which they have already mastered in high school. There is no minimum age requirement, and most tests are multiple
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choice, take 90 to 120 minutes to complete, and cost $87. Even though more colleges accept CLEP than AP, the conditions vary widely between schools with some not accepting them at all to others awarding credit to as many tests as you submit with a score of 50 or higher. Possible scores range from 20 to 80. Several of the science and math tests award up to 6 credits per test and proficiency on a level-2 foreign language test can earn up to 12 credits, depending on the college (https:// clep.collegeboard.org/school-policy-search). Since the amount of tests taken is only limited by the accepting college, students could realistically earn two years’ worth of college credits and graduate early. In fact, there is no minimum age requirement, so if a student earns a full scholarship, he or she could graduate with a fully paid master’s degree in four years. To see which schools accept CLEP tests, register for a free prep class online, or find a test center near you go to: clep.collegeboard.org. Lee Gonet is an avid learner, speaker, educator, and world traveler. She loves challenging teenagers to excel beyond what society considers possible by teaching young people to think deeply, learn intensely, and act purposefully outside the classroom box. For example, her daughter worked abroad by 16 and her son earned his Engineering Master’s by 20. Dreams do come true.
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6 Research-Backed Sites and Apps to
provides stories, songs, creative play, and a safe social element called “Pigeon Post.” Though its intent is very serious, it’s kidfriendly, accessible, and fun.
Boost Your Kid’s Report Card
Starfall.com, Grades K-2, Free with fee-based additional content
Improve academic performance with free and low-cost tools that strengthen kids’ fundamental reading and math skills.
This site is a great starting place when kids are gearing up to read. It introduces the basics by teaching letter recognition, skill repetition, and beginner-level ebooks. Based on research and with proven efficacy, it also has some math activities and expanded options via membership.
For many parents and kids grading season isn’t the slamdunk, high-five, fist-bumping celebration you were hoping for. But you don’t need to hire an expensive tutor or run off to the after-school learning center when straight As prove elusive. Plenty of free and low-cost tools can help give your kid highquality practice in the foundational reading and math skills that are key to students’ overall performance. And research proves it. The recommendations below are either aligned with current research about learning or have been the focus of independent research that demonstrates their effectiveness. And that’s cause for celebration!
IXL, Grades K-12, Free to try; membership-based IXL offers a wide area of practice material, and there’s an app for when you’re on the go. Research shows that IXL can improve performance and even kids’ attitude about math. Two things that set it apart are its distraction-free interface and step-by-step explanations for incorrect answers.
Wuzzit Trouble, Grades 2-8, $1.99
Bedtime Math, Grades K-3, Free Practicing something every day is the way to make progress, but not all digital practice is created equally. This website offers math problems in the form of a story, usually based on a situation or fact from the real world. Each problem is available at three skill levels. The idea is that families can use the site or app together to build math into each day. Check out the study that demonstrates its effectiveness.
Get the Math, Grades 7-10, Free Remember going to school and wondering whether you’d ever use algebra in the real world? This site aims to prove that algebraic thinking pays off in real-world tasks. And it, too, was the subject of a study that showed its value. With a combination of videos and real-life problems, Get the Math helps kids practice mathematical concepts while solving real-life problems.
Learn With Homer, Grades K-2, Free with in-app purchases Created with best practices and reading research in mind, this app can get kids pumped about reading with skill-building exercises and supportive materials. Unlike many other reading apps, Learn With Homer not only includes phonics, but it also Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Disguised as a fun math game with cute creatures, this app has some research backing, too. Going beyond simple addition and subtraction, it requires kids to use problem-solving skills to get the maximum points available. The gears mechanism to help free the Wuzzits feels fresh, which is great for kids who might be wary of yet another math drill game.
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Fully Alive Sunday Teaching Series Join us in Contemporary or Traditional worship at 8, 9:30 or 11am to discover what Jesus taught about living the overflowing life God intended.
Fully Alive Community Healing Nights Insights from pastors and counselors on facing some of the biggest obstacles to living fully alive. Wednesdays at 5:30-7:30pm, dinner available.
Sundays January 6-27, 2019 Or watch at www.frazer.church/live
• Overcoming Fear & Anxiety | Jan. 16 • Hope for Depression & Suicide | Jan. 23
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A Page in a Book The Greatness of Grandfathers As one of the eldest family members in a child’s life, grandfathers have often been the keepers of the lore, the blazers of trails and the anchors of the tribe as it expands. Grandfathers (and grandmothers) also enjoy a sweet spot in their grandkids’ lives. While they retain authority as senior family members, their generational remove allows them to also be generous, patient and forgiving in spaces that parents can’t always be. While every child’s experience with their grandfathers is unique to them, the best of relationships nurture both and build memories that will last for their lifetimes. The following books celebrate the richness that grandfathers bring into the lives of the little ones who make their titles official.
The Remember Balloons
by Jessie Oliveros, Illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte (Simon & Schuster) Everyone in this boy’s family has balloons, each lofty orb encompassing their special memories. While the boy has more balloons that his baby brother (and fewer than his parents), his grandfather has the most of all. Grandfather’s many experiences in his long life fill his balloons with memories of his wedding, adventures with his childhood pet, favorite family tales and more. The boy and his grandfather even share some balloons, memories they have in common of their special times together. But as old age stakes its claim, the boy sees some of his grandfather’s balloons floating away. Will the grandson be able to save them in time? Powerful and moving in its metaphor, this title is a lovingly rendered guide for children who may experience a grandparent’s memory loss or cognitive changes.
The Greatest Adventure
by Tony Piedra (Arthur A. Levine / Scholastic) Eliot’s imagination lets him transform his inner city landscape into a vista for endless adventures as he navigates high seas and tracks wild beast around every corner. But his adventures always end when the real world intrudes. When his grandfather, captain of his own ship,comes to visit, Eliot is captivated by his tales of journeys through jungle rivers and dark seas. Hoping to join his grandfather on his real boat, the boy’s journey with the captain leads to a boat that’s no longer seaworthy. Eliot discovers that his own powers of imagination may hold the key to giving them both the adventure of a lifetime. Celebrating reciprocated love and living between generations, The Greatest Adventure is a sweet testament to the exchange of positive power between grandparents and grandchildren.
Quiet
by Tomie dePaola (Simon & Schuster) “Everything is in such a hurry”, remarks the old man as he joins his grandchildren on a nature walk. The busy bees buzz, the restless leaves flutter, and the birds swoop from the trees as the family walks together. Traveling down the path, their grandfather points out all the ways that the woods are full of activity and movement until they come to a bench. Suggesting that they take a seat and just be still and quiet together, the grandfather observes that the flora and fauna around them also pause and rest for a time. Using natural elements and simple text to subtly illustrate the divergent trajectories between the blooming energy of youth and the settling pace of age, Quiet gently celebrates the natural velocity of young and old alike. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Does it seem like every time you turn around your home has been taken apart by your little explorer? Don’t despair. It may simply result from an extraordinary desire to learn. Who knows, your child just may be a future scientist, inventor, or leader in the making.
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Then supply your kids with scissors, tape, and glue, and let them go to work. Offer ideas to get your kids started then let them come up with their own creations.
BOREDOM BUSTERS
When your child needs to occupy some creative energy, have your child try some of these fun, educational activities. Put together a book of facts on a favorite interest such as dinosaurs, insects, rock bands, sports, or astronomy. Clip pictures and descriptions from magazines and Internet printouts. Then trace drawings from books, and write about personal experiences with the topic.
Make a United States puzzle. Purchase several colors of clay and a United States map. Clip each state from the map, place a state clipping over the rolled out clay, and trace the shape into the clay with a toothpick. Cut out the shapes then write the name of the state with a pencil tip. Be sure to use a different color of clay for each neighboring state, and then let the shapes dry or bake according to instructions.
Make up a scavenger hunt. Parents, make a list of easy to find items for your small children. Give older kids a greater challenge with a list of puzzles to solve in order to determine what items to find. Kids can also create their own scavenger hunt for family or friends to try. Play restaurant. Have your child make up a restaurant menu with several simple dishes he can prepare. At dinnertime, he can seat the family, take orders, then prepare and serve the dishes. (Suggestion: Bring along some reading while you wait).
Play Thomas Edison. Save old kitchen appliances, computers, DVD players, and other electronics. Give your child a supply of tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, and safety glasses, and let your child go to work. Kids love this type of exploration and learn by taking apart and examining the inner workings of electronics. As a word of caution, cut the electrical cord before your child begins to prevent any mishaps. And supervise for sharp parts or mechanisms that could pinch fingers.
Recycling fun. Start a discard collection and teach your kids the importance of recycling and reusing disposable items. Then get their creative juices flowing. Save zippers and buttons from old clothing, plastic containers, fabric strips, packing materials, small scraps of wood, carpet and wallpaper scraps, and more.
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Create a video. Have your children make up several humorous television commercials using household items for props and by dressing-up for the part. After they’ve rehearsed their skits, set up a video camera, and tape their production.
EXPLORATION ON THE GO
Are you looking for some new and exciting places to take your kids? Try some of these spots. Art museums offer a variety of activities to spark your kids’ interest. Many offer art and craft workshops, traveling exhibits, book signings by children’s illustrators, and even musical performances and other arts.
TOYS THAT TEACH
Keep kids entertained with these educational toys that won’t quickly lose their appeal.
Head to a natural history museum. Kids can discover the past from dinosaur displays and stuffed-animal exhibits to geology collections, ancient mummies, and astronomy. Also, ask what kind of workshops and educational programs are available for kids and any special events that are coming up.
Try K’nex, which puts a new twist on building blocks. With K’nex, there are endless possibilities to what a child can create, from dinosaurs and airplanes to roller coasters, space shuttles, and motorized cars. K’nex are found in educational toy stores.
Youtheatre. Look for one in your region offering plays for child and family audiences. Pre-show “playshops” conducted by area artists and educators where kids can explore the performing arts from puppet making to stage make-up are just a couple of the special offerings you might find.
Go on a dig. Archaeology excavation kits are found in many educational toy stores or online. Children can dig for ancient treasures from replicas of dinosaur fossils to Egyptian reliefs. Kids also learn about the history behind the excavated items through stories included with the kits. Once kids’ interest has been sparked, parents can print out additional articles from encyclopedias or the Internet.
Hands-on science. Visit one of the many hands-on science museums around the country. These science playlands are great fun for kids and adults alike. They’ll keep your child mentally and physically active the whole day through while pushing buttons, winding cranks, playing instruments, experimenting, and building. When everyone is exhausted, enjoy a fun, family science show, the observatory, an IMAX movie, or simulator rides, all commonly found in these museums. mp
Scientific Explorer kits have won several awards. These kits offer a variety of educational activities, experiments, and worksheets. They are available in the following themes: Ancient Greece: The Dawn of Modern Science, Galileo: Renaissance Astronomer and Physicist, Charles Darwin: The Life of a Naturalist; and many others. Look for these kits in gift shops at science museums and in other educational toyshops.
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Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid’s STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? She also writes a blog, Modern FamilyStyle at modernfamilystyle.com.
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ParentingToday’sTeens
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by Mark Gregston
Preparing Teens to Survive in the Jungle This isn’t your parent’s culture. Our world is changing at a rapid pace, and is decidedly different than the place we grew up in. But it’s the arena our teenagers are living in right now. I don’t have to do a lot of convincing to tell you that your kids face a difficult world and have to process an amazing amount of information and conflicting values every day. The cultural pressures teens face today are far worse than anything we faced when we were that age. On any given day your teen may be exposed to pornography, drugs, and immoral lifestyles, and encouraged by their peers to participate in self-destructive behaviors. They live in a raw culture where what is right, healthy, and nurturing is thought to be all wrong, and what is wrong is thought to be all right. Overwhelmed, parents often do one of two things … they either lay down and let the culture wash over their kids without much resistance, or they run away from the culture and attempt to shield their teens from any and all outside influences. But both methods are damaging to a child. We shouldn’t plunge headlong into this present culture, because there are very real dangers underneath the surface. Yet, we shouldn’t isolate our kids from the world they live in, because there are good and necessary lessons teens can gain from it. Let me share some ways to properly prepare your child for the culture.
Talk About It: When was the last time
you had a meaningful conversation with your teen about the world? There are plenty of opportunities to do so! Instead of simply banning your teen from watching that movie, listening to that band, or reading that book, I encourage moms and dads to read, watch or listen alongside their child, then ask questions about what they just experienced. Was the main character happier because of his many relationships? What was that musician saying is the most important thing in life? How do you feel about the level of violence in that story? When you talk about, instead of prohibit, the cultural influences in your teen’s
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life, you’re teaching them to practice discernment and working out the part of their brains that allows them to analyze what is coming in.
Connect With Them: This culture has a
lot to offer your son or daughter. But the one thing it cannot provide your child is meaningful connections. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tumblr, Pinterest and all other social media can only offer shallow relationships. If you want to have the upper hand over the culture in your teen’s life—connect with him or her. Eat meals together. Ask her opinion about topics you both care about. Participate with him in his hobbies. Look your teens in the eye and try to speak to their heart when you talk. Kids crave connections. And if they find a healthy relationship with mom and dad, they won’t look to the culture to meet their needs. Instead of making arbitrary rules that cause our teens to fight against the stream of culture, let’s focus instead on how we relate to them.
Back Off: Most parents would readily take a bullet for their teens. But sacrificing for your child is not the same as shielding your child. Moms and dads need to protect, but more importantly, prepare their teens for the war zone they’ll experience out in the world. That means backing off slowly, and letting your teens fight some of their own battles. Allow freedom for your teen to make decisions, even make mistakes, and learn to get back up again. Sure, shielding your children may prevent painful experiences from coming their way. But it also eliminates their creativity and dampens their move towards independence. Teens need creativity to figure out the problems and situations they’ll face outside the home. And they’ll need an independent spirit to persevere when the culture throws them a curveball. Some ways you can begin to back off include: • If she uses the Internet to promote an inappropriate image or lifestyle, disconnect it for a period of time. 62
• If he is ticketed for speeding, not wearing her seat belt, being out past the local curfew, or other infractions of the law, let him figure out how to pay the fine, as well as how to get to work or school the next day. • If she spends her money foolishly, don’t buy her the things she needs. Let her figure out how to pay for those things. Doing without may teach her to stop spending foolishly. You can take a bullet for your child, but don’t shield your son or daughter from all the scrapes and bruises that may come their way or it will come back to bite them later in life.
Hand Over Responsibility: More than just backing off, moms and dads should also be actively looking to give their teens more responsibility. A mature and responsible teen will be better equipped to resist the negative influences of the culture and stand firm on his convictions. You can say, “Don’t go to a party where’s there is drinking!” But it’s better to explain, “Here’s how to respond if you end up at a party where there is drinking.” Instead of railing against inappropriate clothes and fashion items, let your daughter be responsible to pick out clothes that are both fashionable and modest. I can tell you honestly that if you give your teen responsibility over their actions and decisions, they’ll surprise you in making smart choices! In preparing your teen for the culture — it is important to know what you’re up against. You need to understand and respond to the culture and all it’s pitfalls, not ignore it. Know the fads and the trends today, so you’ll know how to respond appropriately. Expecting your teen to avoid participation isn’t helping them at all, because they will participate—only they’ll do it behind your back. So, find ways for your teen to fit into the culture, without compromising your values. What you’ll end up with is a teen who influences the culture, instead of being damaged by it. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
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3. process of researching schools you will receive false positives. It’s hard not to be impressed by beautiful photos of a campus and its buildings, particularly if it is an older school with impressive grounds and architecture. But don’t let the cosmetics take your attention away from what is truly important, namely, the curriculum, the sports programs, and the extracurricular activities. Always be asking yourself “How does School X blend these three important components so that my child will benefit from attending this school?” As Geri Coleman Tucker wisely observes in 5 Mistakes Parents Make When Picking a School, “Sure, you want to pick a school that is clean and attractive, with all the newest technology. But remember that looks aren’t everything. Some schools might not have the latest and greatest equipment. But they have engaged and well-trained teachers who can bring out the best in their students—including those with learning and attention issues. The teachers are the most important element. Watch them interact with kids, and ask parents of current students for more insights.” Before you start looking seriously at schools, discuss your specific needs and requirements openly and honestly in a family conversation. Include your child in the discussion. Then, when you start gathering information about schools, you will have a list of features to look for. What you are really doing is answering
Choosing the right private school for your child is a lengthy process. I want you to achieve the success which you deserve without making these common mistakes other parents have made. 1. Choosing a school which is not a good fit. You know your child better than anybody. Never forget that as you begin the process of choosing a school for your child. As you look at school websites, don’t be distracted by those beautiful, professionally-produced presentations. Schools will show you what they want you to see. That’s not a bad thing; however, those websites may not necessarily address your specific needs and requirements. Many times during the Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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a simple question which has to be front and center at all times: “Is this school the best fit for my child?”
2. Not meeting deadlines. Most schools have admissions deadlines. The idea is to receive all the admissions applications by a certain date. Then the admissions staff reviews all the application and makes their decision about who to admit. They also decide who to reject and who to put on a waiting list. If you are applying to a school with a fixed deadline, always err on the side of caution. Even with online applications, aim to submit all the information which the school requires at least 10 days before the published deadline. As Dr. Blythe Grossberg wisely points out: “Ideally, the school selection process starts in the summer or fall the year before your child will actually attend the school. By the end of the summer, you should’ve identified the schools you are interested in applying to, and you can start to arrange tours.” Tied in with the admissions deadlines is scheduling the admissions test. While most standardized admissions tests are done electronically, schedule your child’s test at least two months before the application deadline. You need to allow some margin for error. Sickness, weather, and a host of other variables can make the test day a nightmare. Allowing yourself plenty of time to reschedule the test or to schedule another test is a common sense approach to this component of the school selection process. Parent Map suggests: “Plan to have your child take the test in the fall before your school applications are due. While you can schedule a December or January date to maximize your student’s time for test prep, you don’t want to sign up for the very last possible date, in case your child is ill at that time. Check the websites of the schools to which you want to apply to determine your student’s last possible test date.”
3. Not visiting the school.
You wouldn’t buy a house sight unseen, would you? It’s the same with the substantial financial outlay you are making for your child’s education. Unless you live in another country, you must visit the schools on your short list of schools in which you are interested. Why? Because you will be able to tell in a nanosecond if the school you are visiting is a good fit for your child. Remember that you have done your research carefully, so you understand what the school teaches and how it teaches. Seeing the campus, observing a class, as well as meeting teachers and staff, will cement the deal. If you have questions, you can ask them during your visit.
4. Not asking for financial aid.
Unless your last name is Gates or Bezos, you will probably want to consider asking for some financial aid. When you have one child in private school and another at college, you are looking at some serious money. Never assume that your family’s financial picture precludes your getting financial aid. You won’t know until you ask. Speak to your financial adviser. Submit the PFS. One last word of advice: do not wait until the last minute. I have always recommended that you start your school selection process as far in advance as you can. You are looking at devoting up to 150 man-hours to this project. Devoting 2 or 3 hours to it consistently weekly will result in your controlling the process instead of the other way around. mp Article contributed by Robert Kennedy at www.privateschoolreview.com.
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THE ADVENTURES IN
Math & Science 2019 Summer Camp Sessions
HOSTED BY THE ALABAMA SCHOOL OF MATH AND SCIENCE MOBILE, AL
June 3-7, June 10-14, and June 17-21 | Grades 6-10 Register by April 1: $360 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $260 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after April 1: $385 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $285 Day Camp (includes lunch) Cost to stay weekend between a session is an additional $185 (includes trip to water park)
Course Sampling
ACT Prep, Algebra Review, Exploring Inner Space, Marine Biology, CSI: Mobile, Phun Physics, Using Java, Robotics, Field Biology, Psychology, Math Puzzles, Labs of Doom, Rocketry, Origami, Speak Up, Light Metals and Enameling, Apps for Smart Devices, and many more. Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at www.asms.net.
Deadline to register is May 1, 2019!
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The OppOrTuniTies Are endless! OPEN HOUSE Tuesday, February 6 6:00 p.m.
Macon East Academy is a college preparatory school committed to providing students with a safe, nurturing environment that promotes academic achievement, patriotism, and belief in God through Christian doctrine. Founded in 1995, Macon East Academy focuses on providing a family environment in a small school atmosphere. It is a place where students feel at home and know that every faculty member has a genuine interest in their education and personal achievement on and off the campus. Recognizing that each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs, our teachers provide the guidance needed to encourage students to take responsibility for their own learning. The Macon East experience is designed to nurture and develop well-balanced, responsible, and dedicated young people. Macon East seeks to enroll students who are capable of achieving success inside the framework of a college preparatory curriculum. Our accelerated elementary classes are supplemented with offerings for all ages in music, Spanish, technology and both visual and performing arts. Throughout upper school, students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of Honors, Advanced Placement and Elective offerings. Macon East offers a 1:1 Apple iPad program equipping every student in Kindergarten through 12th grade with an iPad for use during the school year.
Athletics is a big part of life on campus at Macon East with over 80% of upper school students participating in one or more interscholastic team sports. Team sports at Macon East include baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, golf, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Beginning in 6th grade, elementary boys may participate in interscholastic football, and all elementary girls K3 - 6 may participate in cheerleading. Macon East has won numerous regional and state championships, and our coaches have received local and state recognition for excellence in coaching. Our most recent athletic achievements include 5 state championship titles for varsity softball, 6 state championship titles in volleyball, and state titles in basketball and baseball in 2017. Extracurricular activities include many opportunities for student leadership and community service through various clubs and organizations. At Macon East Academy, students are held to high standards in all areas of student life, and Christian values are reinforced throughout all school programs, policies and practices.
Leadership scholarship opportunities are available.
AFFORDABLE TUITION • SAFE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT • SMALL CLASS SIZE COMPETITIVE ATHLETICS • ACCELERATED CURRICULUM • FAMILY ATMOSPHERE For enrollment information contact Jill Taylor, Admissions Director, Phone at (334) 277-6566 Ext. 210 or by Email at: jtaylor@maconeast.net 73 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents 15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566
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Saint James School FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS
334.273.3021
Leading the Way Since 1955 STJweb.org Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color,
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national, and ethnicI origin to all the2019 rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Montgomery Parents January
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TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL 1700 East Trinity Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36106 334-213-2100 www.trinitywildcats.com
OPEN HOUSE: Thursday, January 17, 2019. Intended for prospective parents of K3, K4, and K5 students. RSVP at trinitywildcats.com. ENROLLMENT: Approximately 740 students K3-12. MISSION: Trinity School provides students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, thus enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. The “Trinity Experience” is extraordinary in every way, and is an education that is unique as your child. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. Educators at Trinity strike the perfect balance as they encourage students to strive for excellence, while emphasizing Christ-like character above all else. The “Trinity Experience” produces leaders who possess mental, physical and spiritual strength. One hundred percent of Trinity graduates are accepted to post-secondary institutions, with many attending some of the finest colleges in the nation. Offering the only full-time dance program at a Montgomery independent school, Trinity’s award-winning fine arts program offers state-of-the-art areas for dance, choral, instrumental, visual arts, and speech. An athletic program with a long-standing tradition of championship-level teams, many Trinity athletes play at the next level in several sports. Athletics play an integral part in Trinity’s educational program, which is designed to develop the whole person—spirit, mind, and body. ACADEMICS: Trinity graduates have received over $40 million in merit-based scholarships over the last 5 years. A 2018 Trinity graduate was named a National Merit Finalist in the 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program and a 2019 graduate was named a National Merit Semifinalist in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Program. One hundred percent of Trinity graduates are accepted to post-secondary institutions, with the majority of students attending their first choice of a college or university. Trinity School offers over 34 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and Honor courses. Two 2018 Trinity graduates were named National Speech and Debate Association Academic All Americans. The Lower School STEAM Studio is inspiring critical thinking in students (K3-5th grade), where they are engaged by stimulating curriculum that increases achievement and creates positive attitudes towards the study of STEAM-related fields—science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. The Lower School Media Center encompasses a library and an innovation lab, providing project-based learning activities to Lower School students. SERVICE: Serving others is paramount at Trinity. From the first day of Lower School to the last day of Upper School, Trinity’s focus is on putting others first. Trinity’s school-wide (K3-12) mission project, Change 4 Change (C4C), has donated over $100,000 in the past five years to charitable organizations in Montgomery and throughout the world. In 2016, Trinity launched a “Cyber-Seniors” class, which allows students to teach senior adults how to operate their computers, iPhones, iPads, and other technological devices. Trinity’s junior and senior classes annually serve over 1,100 hours of community service with local organizations, such as Common Ground, Habitat for Humanity, and The Salvation Army. Trinity believes students benefit greatly—both academically and emotionally—from volunteering their time and giving to make the community and world a better place. Therefore, a variety Montgomery Parents I January 2019
of service opportunities are provided to Lower School students. They practice leadership, problem solving, collaboration with others, time management, and communication. Trinity believes that while completing community service projects, students develop real-world skills that will help them succeed in middle school, high school and beyond. TECHNOLOGY: Trinity School is an Apple Distinguished School. Trinity was the first school in the River Region recognized with this prestigious honor and has now achieved Apple Distinguished School status for five consecutive years. Trinity’s inaugural CyberPatriot Team placed second in the State of Alabama in the 2018 cyber defense competition, where students act as IT professionals protecting corporate and small company networks. Trinity’s curriculum offers several technology courses, including Coding, Robotics, Broadcasting/Digital Video, College Tech Basics, and Computer Graphics. Dedicated to a learning environment utilizing the tools and resources of the 21st century classroom, Trinity was the first school in the River Region to implement a grade-wide laptop initiative, providing students equal access to technology. Every student in Grades 6 to 12 is issued an Apple laptop for use during the school year. Macbooks and iPads are available for lower school students to use daily in the classroom. ARTS: Trinity’s theatre department produces a full-scale musical each spring with a cast of more than 125 Upper School students. Trinity’s Art Department provides opportunities for exhibition and collaboration between emerging student artists and professional artists through its annual Pop-Up Art Gallery and Collaborative Studio. Show Choir and band students perform locally as well as throughout the country and state each year. Trinity is the only independent school in Montgomery that offers a full-time dance program and offers a superior, multi-faceted band program that provides a variety of musical and performance opportunities. The award-winning Wildcat Pride Marching Band continues their record of excellence, receiving straight superior ratings at statewide competitions. The Middle School Concert Band and the Symphonic Band allow students to increase their proficiency through rehearsing and performing concert band literature. ATHLETICS: The Athletic Program at Trinity fields 36 interscholastic sport teams and is designed to provide opportunities for competitive athletics while enriching the total educational experience of each student-athlete. Both men’s and women’s teams have excelled in the middle school, junior varsity, and varsity levels capturing many CCC and area titles. Trinity has a long-standing tradition of championship-level teams, and many Trinity athletes play at the next level in several sports. Trinity has won 27 AHSAA state championships—5 in the last 4 years—the 2018 Girls Soccer State Championship, the 2017 Girls Golf State Championship, the 2017 and 2015 Boys Cross Country State Championships, and the 2015 Baseball State Championship. Over 84% of students in grades 7-12 compete in at least one sport at Trinity. Trinity has produced more Jimmy Hitchcock Award recipients than any other school in Montgomery, most recently in 2016 and 2017.
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Independent Hooper Academy ad on page 36, 72
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380 Fischer Rd., Hope Hull, 36043 Founded: 1970 Religious Affiliation: Non –secular Curriculum: Advanced and standard diplomas, K5-6th - ABEKA Leadership: Headmaster: Dr. Liz Norman Grades: K5 through 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Include football (grades 3rd12th), volleyball, boys and girls basketball, baseball, track, softball, weight training, dance, cheerleading, and soccer. Clubs: Scholar’s Bowl, National Honor Society, Science Club, Math Team, SGA, Performing Arts, Yearbook/Journalism, FCA, Philotimo, and Spanish. Additional Info: Registration Deadline: Based on availability. Accreditation: AISA; SACS; AAIS Extended care program available. Licensed Day Care program available on campus. Tuition: K-12, Call for rates.
(334) 288.5980
www.hooperacademy.org
Macon-East Academy
ad on page 39, 73
15396 Vaughn Road, Cecil, 36013 Founded: 1995 Curriculum: College Prep, Honors and AP Leadership: Headmaster: Glynn Lott Grades: K3 – 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Basketball, football, baseball, soccer, golf, softball, volleyball and cheerleading Clubs: Student Government Association, National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, International Thespian Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Students, Drama Club and Yearbook Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Tests given to K4, K5 & 1st grade; standardized scores 2-12 Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and School (AdvancEd/SACS), Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), and Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) Other: Teacher-student ratio: Preschool: 12; K-6th: 18; grades 7-12: 24 Tuition: Please call for rates. Uniforms are required for 1st – 12 graders (334) 277.6566
www.maconeast.net
Montessori at Mulberry ad on page 19, 74
2034 Clubview St, Montgomery, 36106 Curriculum: Each child is encouraged to reach his/her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level. Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school. Leadership: Director: Terri Jackson Grades: 12 months through Kindergarten Additional Info: Registration Deadline: Open as space permits. Testing Requirements: Personal interview. Tuition: Please call for more information.
(334) 265.7733 montessori.mulberry@gmail.com http://montessoriatmulberry.com
Saint James School ad on page 1, 78
6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, 36116 Founded: 1955 Curriculum: College Preparatory Leadership: Head of School: Dr. Larry McLemore High School Principal: Dr. Michael Gaylor Middle School Principal: Mrs. Laura Spivey Elementary Principal: Mrs. Andrea Harris Grades: Pre-K3 through 12th (including all-day and halfday Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 options) Extra Curricular: Sports: Over 45 competitive sports teams, including football, basketball, baseball, tennis, equestrian, cross country, track, soccer, golf, wrestling, volleyball, softball, cheerleading, and indoor track. Clubs: Over 30 clubs and organizations including ten honor societies, SGA, Speech and Debate Club, Write Club, Film Club, Drama Club, French Club, Latin Club, Spanish Club, Math Club, Science Olympiad, Tri-M, Scholars’ Bowl, Stand Up to Cancer Club,
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The Montgomery Academy
Government Club, Book Club, Girls’ Club, Interact Club, Key Club, Pep Club, Student Y Club, Fellowship of Christian Students, Young Democrats, and Young Republicans. Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Admissions testing required. Contact Admissions Office (334-273-3021) for information. Registration Deadline: Testing begins in January and is ongoing as space becomes available. Initial invitations for acceptance mailed early March. Later enrollment as openings occur. Accreditation: SACS/AdvancedED, NAIS, SAIS, AISA, SACAC, NACAC, and the College Board Other: Graduates of Saint James have received over $35.2 million in scholarships to colleges and universities across the nation over the past five years. Challenging academics, competitive athletics, and nationally recognized arts classes combine to create Central Alabama’s most engaging independent school environment at Saint James School (STJ). As Montgomery’s oldest independent private school, Saint James provides the most well-rounded course offerings in the area, blending superior academics and state-of-the-art technology, with absorbing enrichment, exploratory, and college elective classes. STJ offers a wide-range of unique pre-college major electives, Alabama’s only high school to do so. Saint James School envelops students in a 21st century learning environment, providing Macbooks® and iPads® for Grades 3-12, and integrated use of iPods®, iPads®, and Macbooks® in Pre-K through Grade 2 classes. The school’s talented and dedicated faculty is a vital component of the learning equation, creating a welcoming, yet challenging atmosphere to help students from Grades PreK3 through 12 reach their highest potential. As STJ students make great strides academically, they also grow personally, learning to become young men and women of character who are self-motivated, intellectually curious, reflective, and articulate. The rigorous academic curriculum is balanced with outstanding offerings in the nationally recognized fine and performing arts department and state championship athletic programs. To make the transition to Saint James easier, all new students are paired with a specially selected student buddy. Academic support for English Language Learners is provided to international students, to assist with English comprehension, reading, and writing skills. Tuition: Please call our admissions office or visit our website for more information on tuition, financial assistance, and scholarship opportunities at Saint James School. Mandatory drug testing, grades 6 – 12. Uniforms Required. (334) 277.8033
admissions@stjweb.org
ad on page 75, Back Cover
Upper School, 3240 Vaughn Road Lower School, 1550 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, 36106 Curriculum: College Preparatory. Our Upper School has 92 courses including 22 AP course offerings. Our K-12 curriculum seeks to educate the whole child by focusing not only on each child’s academic development but also on their physical and social-emotional development. Mission: Mission: The Montgomery Academy develops leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence. Leadership: Head of School: John McWilliams Director of Admissions: Rachael Gallagher Grades: K - 12th Extra Curricular: Athletics: 72% of students in grades 7-12 participate on one of our athletic teams, including, basketball, soccer, football, golf, tennis, baseball, softball, track, cross country, volleyball, swimming and cheerleading. With 35 teams, there is something for all student-athletes. Clubs: There are several clubs for students to join in the Lower, Middle and Upper School. These include: Art Club, Bible Studies, Chess Club, Creative Writing Club, Drama Club, Environment Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Speech and Debate, Government Club, HEART-Community Service, Honor Council, Math Club, Peer Pals, Science Club, Student Council, Student Newspaper, Foreign Language Clubs and Yearbook. Additional Info: Admission Requirements: An admissions test is given to all applicants in grades K-12. Please see our website regarding specific information regarding testing. Applicants must submit a transcript and teacher recommendations. An interview is required for applicants in grades 6-12. Open House Dates: Our Kindergarten Preview, “K-View” allows families to visit our school on their own time while experiencing a typical Kindergarten day. To schedule your K-View at a time that works for your family, visit our website, call the Admissions Office at 334-272-8210, or email admissions@montgomeryacademy.org. For our Grades 1-12 applicants, our shadow day experience pairs prospective applicants with a current student buddy for a day in the life at MA. What better way to experience “the MA Difference” than to be an Eagle for a day! Tours of both campuses are available at any time. Registration Deadline: Initial decisions for Admissions are made in early March. Kindergarten testing should take place by February 14, 2019 and Grades 1-12 testing should take place by February 22, 2019 to be considered in the first round of decisions. After the February deadline, we will accept ap-
www.stjweb.org
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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Extra Curricular: Sports: Football, basketball, track, cheerleading, baseball, soccer, golf, softball & volleyball Clubs: Beta, Science, Math, Yearbook, SGA, FCA, computer and School Newspaper. Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Entrance/admission exam Registration Deadline: Now accepting applications Accreditation: AISA and SACS Tuition: Please call for rates. Academic scholarships available for grades 2nd-11th Extended Care Fees: Call for additional information.
plications and consider applicants as space permits. Accreditation: The Montgomery Academy is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and is jointly accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools. The Academy is also a member of The College Board, Educational Records Bureau, School Scholarship Service, Southern Association for College Admission Counseling, the Association of Independent School Admission Professionals, National Association for College Admission Counseling, Cum Laude Society, and the National, Southern, and Alabama Associations of Independent Schools. Tuition: The tuition package at the Academy includes the enrollment deposit, admission to all home athletic events, a hot nutritious lunch, snacks in grades K-5, most extracurricular and athletic team fees, a yearbook and all technology fees. The Academy does not charge new family fees or building fees. Please check our website or call the Admissions Office for more information on tuition, financial assistance and our scholarship opportunities, including Renaissance and Millsap Scholarships.
(334) 365.4343 generals@autaugaacademy.com www.autaugaacademy.com
Edgewood Academy
P.O. Box 160, 5475 Elmore Rd, Elmore, 36025 Curriculum: Offers 2 diplomas - standard, dual enrollment; including advanced placement courses. Leadership: Headmaster: Clint Welch Grades: K3-12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, cheerleading, peewee cheerleading, Golf, track and Pee-Wee/Termite football. Clubs: National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, SGA, FCA, Spanish, Youth in Government, Drama, Beta, Accounting Team, First Priority, and Math Team. Additional Info: Testing Requirement: Admissions test & evaluation of scholastic record Registration deadline: Applications accepted all year; testing begins January on a first-come, first-serve basis. Accreditation: AISA since 1974 and Advanced ED (formerly known as SACS), NCPSA and CITA Tuition: Please visit our website or call the school for tuition rates.
(334) 272-8210 admissions@montgomeryacademy.org www.montgomeryacademy.org
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The School at Sylvan Learning Center
ad on page 24, 79 4240 Lomac Street, Montgomery, AL 36106 Grades: 1st-12th Grades The School at Sylvan Learning Center is a SACS (Southern Association of Colleges & Science) Accredited school program, which offers an individualized education experience. By offering a low student to teacher ratio, we are able to individualize and meet the educational needs of each student. We offer: half day schedule (8:30 – 12:30), 1st - 12th grade, partnerships with Homeschool organizations to provide support services (sports etc), degreed teachers, science lab. (334) 262.0043
cd@montgomerysylvan.com
(334) 567.5102 Link on website www.edgewoodacademy.org
Lowndes Academy
P. O. Box 99 or 215 South Broad Street, Lowndsboro, 36752 Curriculum: Elementary A Beka; college prep Leadership: Headmaster: Barry Mohun Grades: K3-12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Football (Pee-Wee, Jr. High & Varsity), Girls Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, Track, Golf, Basketball and Cheerleading Clubs: Beta Club, FCA, SGA, ACE, Key Club, Spanish and Mathematics Additional Info: Testing Requirements: None Registration deadline: Open Accreditation: AISA; Advanced ED (SACS) Other: After school care, music, dance, gymnastics, piano, yearbook staff.
sylvanlearning.com
Autauga Academy
497 Golson Rd., Prattville, 36067 Founded: 1969 Religious Affiliation: None Curriculum: College Prep Leadership: Headmaster: Larry Pickett Grades: K3 through 12th
N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2019 2011
TH E LEARNING TREE C H I L D D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R S , I N C . Your children deserve the best, why not give it to them. We pride ourselves at The Learning Tree in having the best child care program for ages 6 wks. to 12 yrs. We are D.H.R. Licensed and provide transportation to and from public school. Full Day Care and Half day (morning or afternoon).
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6wks-12yrs available at all locations but Carmichael Rd.
1816 Glynwood Dr. Prattville - 365-1451 I 1767 Halcyon Blvd. - 272-3188 3335 Woodley Rd. - 284-5560 I 4120 Carmichael Rd. - 271-4733
SPECIAL OFFER
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Protestant
Annual Deer Hunt for school fundraiser. Tuition: Please visit website or call for more info.
(334) 278.3366 lowndesacademy@yahoo.com www.lowndesacademy.org
Alabama Christian Academy
Montessori Academy
ad on page 29, 66
1025 South Hull Street, Montgomery, 36104 Founded: 1982 Curriculum: Montessori Curriculum- includes language, pre-reading, reading, math, science, history, art, and music (AMS affiliated). Leadership: Director of Admissions: Erin Kilgore Grades: 12 months through Kindergarten/Montessori age-appropriate academic program Extra Curricular: Sports & Clubs: Ballet, Spanish, and Tumbling Additional Info: Registration Deadline: Open as space permits. Testing Requirements: Personal interview Other: Celebrating 36 years of Quality Education for the Crucial Early Years. Lead Directresses are American Montessori Society Certified or International Montessori Council Certified teachers. Tuition: Please call for more information.
4700 Wares Ferry Rd, Montgomery, 36109 Founded: 1942 Religious Affiliation: Church of Christ Curriculum: College Prep Leadership: Head of School: Dr. Misty Overman High School Principal: Mrs. Julie Taggart Middle School Principal: Mrs. Julie Taggart Elementary Principal: Doug Black Grades: K4 through 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Track, Soccer, Golf, Cheerleading, Swimming, Cross Country Clubs: Key Club, National Honor Society (Elementary, Middle School and High School), FCA, SGA, Math, Drama, Chorus, Band, Color Guard, Theatre, Scholars Bowl, Pep club, Spanish National Honor Society, FCS, Bass Fishing Team, Capture Club. Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Evaluation of scholastic record, standardized test scores and placement tests. Registration Deadline: Open Accreditation: AdvancEd Tuition: Please call for prices. Tuition breaks for multiple children. Uniforms Required.
(334) 262.8685 Montgomery.montessori@gmail.com www.Montessorimontgomery.com
Montessori School at Hampstead
5251 Hampstead High Street, Unit #111, Montgomery, 36116 Founded: 2011 Curriculum: Montessori Leadership: Melanie Morrison, Head of School Grades: 18 months – Kindergarten Extra Curricular: Other: On-site educational farm with school garden, music, foreign language instruction in French with Ms. Mai. Additional Info: Accreditation & Affiliations: Affiliated with AMS (American Montessori Society) and IMC Religious Affiliation: Interdenominational Registration Deadline: Rolling Open House: Open House: We schedule school tours for 9:00am or 10:00am on school days by appointment. Testing Requirements: Parents required to tour (when geographically possible) and allow for an onsite visit/observation for their child in the classroom. Tuition: $100 non-refundable application fee; program fees and costs can vary based on program options selected so please contact the office for details.
(334) 277.1985
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Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy ad on page 37, 69
125 Calhoun Rd, Montgomery, AL, 36109 Religious Affiliation: Ministry of Morningview Baptist Church. Curriculum: Testing Requirement: Entrance Test required for all grades Registration begins in February. We will be offering an Open House January, 29 at 6 p.m. Leadership: Headmaster: Mark Cox Grades: K5-12th
(334) 356-1969 hos@mshmontgomery.org MSHMontgomery.org Facebook: facebook.com/MontessoriatHampstead Twitter: twitter.com/MSHMontessori Instagram: instagram.com/MontessoriMontgomery/
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Extra Curricular: Clubs: Yearbook, Hand bell and Hand chime Choirs, Upper School Choir, and Photography Additional Info: Accreditation: Meet criteria for accreditation with the Association of Classical Christian Schools. Registration deadline: Open Registration begins February 1st and continues through May 31st. Tuition: Please call for tuition rates. Registration fee is an additional $250.00. Uniforms required. (334) 356.7788
www.ccamontgomery.org
Eastwood Christian School ad on page 40
1701 E. Trinity Blvd, Montgomery, 36106 Founded: 1996 Religious Affiliation: Presbyterian; Westminster Confession of Faith Curriculum: Lower school/ Sing, Spell, Read and Write; Harcourt Math; Spelling; Grammar; Bible, History, Science and Handwriting; Upper school/ Varied Classical Christian, Latin, Logic and Rhetoric Mission: Offers classical approach to Christian education with a biblical worldview dominating all subjects. Our shorter day (7:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) for grades K4-6th offers more family time and individual activities. Leadership: Interim Head of School: Susan Gaines Grades: K4 - 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Basketball, volleyball, JV baseball, cross country, soccer and tennis Clubs: Drama, Beta Club, SGA, and Spanish Club Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Placement test/interview Open House: K4-12 is January 13, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. in the Eastwood Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Registration: Begins January 14-February 1, 2019 for new students. Waiting list registration is on Admissions page of website. Please call Head of School to schedule an appointment. Call for availability. Tuition: Please call for tuition prices. Annual Registration fee of $300 Uniforms required. (334) 272.8195 admin@eastwoodschool.org www.eastwoodschool.org
Evangel Christian Academy
ad on page 30, 70
3975 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, 36106 Founded: 1995 Curriculum: A BEKA, Bob Jones, Purposeful Design, ACSI, and McDougal Littell Leadership: Administrator: Bobby Johnson Grades: K4 through 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, track and cheerleading Clubs: SGA, FCA, Booster Club, National Junior Honor Society and National Honor Society, Praying Parents Drama, ACT Prep, Spanish, Speech, Creative Writing and over 30 more high school electives. Additional Info: Testing is required Registration Deadline: Open in February to all Accreditation: AISA (Blue Ribbon School), Advance ED, ACTS and NCPSA Tuition: Please call for tuition information. Uniforms required. (334) 272.3882
www.ecalions.org
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Success Unlimited Academy
Holy Cross Episcopal School
ad on page 35
ad on page 22, 71
2328 Fairlane Dr., Montgomery (9th-12th grades, Night School & tutoring) 4500 Vaughn Road, Montgomery (K4-8th grades) Montgomery, 36116 Founded: 2000 Religious Affiliation: Christian Curriculum: A Beka, Bob Jones, Houghton-Mifflin, Silver Burdette Gin, and Glencoe Leadership: HeadMaster: Susan Alred, M.Ed. Vice Principle: Lauren Morgan Grades: K4-12th Extra Curricular: Athletics: Registered with AISA, Football, Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Golf, Track and Cheerleading Clubs: Praise Band, Choir, Guitar, Art, Drama, FCA, FCS, Builders Club, Chess Club, Career Start, Key Club and Yearbook Club. Additional Info: Registration Deadline: Open Testing Requirements: Consultations and Evaluations provided at time of enrollment. Accreditation: AdvancEd accredited Other: School offers morning classes, evenings and through Distance Education and Night School. Tutoring is available Monday-Thursday at our Fairlane Drive Campus. Tuition: Please call for tuition information Uniforms Required
4400 Bell Road, Montgomery, 36116 Founded: 1998 Religious Affiliation: Episcopal Curriculum: College Preparatory Mission: Holy Cross Episcopal School of Montgomery, recognizing the God-given gifts and abilities of all persons, seeks to develop these gifts by creating a Christian community in the Episcopal tradition and by providing a nurturing environment in which students of all socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds grow spiritually, intellectually, and physically. Holy Cross offers a welcoming and loving faith-based environment where students begin their day in Chapel with songs, prayers and Bible stories. Academic strength and spiritual well-being are the basis of a Holy Cross education. Diversity of students in all areas is welcomed and encouraged. In addition to a strong academic program, students receive exceptional instruction in a variety of subjects aimed at identifying and developing their natural talents. All students K4 through 6th grade attend Spanish, Music, Visual Arts, STEM Lab, Physical Education, Library, Theater Arts, and Mac and PC Computer Lab. Formal Religious Instruction: Daily Chapel for all students. Leadership: Principal: Kathy Taylor Grades: K4 through 6th Extra Curricular: Sport: AYSO Soccer, Hoops League Basketball, Fleming’s Taekwondo, Tonya Speed Dance, Cross Country Running and Brain Pump Other: Piano, guitar and violin lessons, and Abrakadoodle art. Early room available at 7 a.m. After school care available until 5:30 pm. Additional Info: Open House: January 27, 1pm-3pm Holy Cross Playgroups and Tours: All rising K4, Kindergarten and 1st grade students. February 7, 12, and 19 at 10 a.m. Registration Deadline: Open Testing Requirements: Admission test administered after application Accreditation: Dual accreditation with AdvancED (formerly known as SACS) and the Southern Association of Independent Schools Tuition: Call for rates or check our website. Financial Aid: 5% multiple child discount is offered, and need based financial assistance is available. We accept the Alabama Opportunity Scholarship and Scholarships for Kids. Uniforms required. (334) 395.8222
(334) 213.0803
www.suacademy.com
The Rock School ad on page 53
3401 Harrison Road, Montgomery, 36109 Founded: 1996 Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Curriculum: College Prep, A Beka, Bob Jones and Saxon Leadership: Principal: April Cash, M.Ed. Grades: K-5 through 12th Extra Curricular: Athletics: ACSC membership, varsity and junior high basketball, volleyball and dance team. Activities/Clubs: Student Government, Choir and Flag Detail Additional Info: Accreditation: National Private School Accreditation Alliance/ “Class A” School
www.holycrossmontgomery.org
2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690
460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411
Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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Testing Requirements: Interview for admission. Registration deadline: Open
Extended Care Program: Trinity offers an extended day through the Wildcat Club Program. This program is designed to be a true extension of the school day and provide more than just childcare. The Wildcat Club encourages students to learn and thrive in a relaxed and fun environment. Tuition: Please call for rates. Uniforms Required.
(334) 260.0984 rockwarriors@att.net www.rockwarriors.org
Trinity Presbyterian School
(334) 213.2100 admissions@trinitywildcats.com www.trinitywildcats.com
ad on page 7, 80
1700 East Trinity Boulevard, Montgomery, 36106 Founded: 1970 Religious Affiliation: Christian Curriculum: Accelerated, College Prep Head of School: Mr. Kerry Palmer Grades: K3 through 12th Trinity is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution, binding academic excellence with Christian values. Providing a challenging college-preparatory education, Trinity provides a rigorous academic program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. Educators at Trinity strike the perfect balance as they encourage students to strive for excellence, while emphasizing Christ-like character above all else. “The Trinity Experience” produces leaders who posses mental, physical and spiritual strength. One hundred percent of Trinity graduates are accepted to post-secondary institutions, with many attending some of the finest colleges in the nation. Offering the only full-time dance program at a Montgomery independent school, Trinity’s award-winning fine arts program offers state-of-the-art areas for dance, choral, instrumental, visual arts, and speech. An athletic program with a long-standing tradition of championshiplevel teams, many Trinity athletes play at the next level in several sports. Athletics play an integral part in Trinity’s educational program, which is designed to develop the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Extra Curricular: Sports: Trinity fields 36 interscholastic sport teams, including football, volleyball, basketball, tennis, baseball, softball, golf, soccer, track, cross country, and swimming. Clubs: Art, Band, Choral, Dance, Drama, Forensics, Speech, Theatrical Design and Production and much more. Additional Info: Registration deadline: Open registration Open House: Thursday, January 17, 2019. Intended for families of prospectiveK3, K4 and K5 Kindergarten students. Accreditation: Trinity Presbyterian School holds dual accreditation from the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). It holds membership in the Alabama Association of Independent Schools, The College Board, National Association for College Admission Counseling, Southern Association for College Admission Counseling, and the Coalition of Lighthouse Schools.
Adullam House Christian Academy
7469 Georgia Road, Wetumpka, 36092 Religious Affiliation: Non-Denominational Curriculum: Abeka Leadership: Headmaster: Rachel Harborth Grades: Preschool-12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Cheerleading, Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field Clubs: Elective classes offered in Art, Computer and Music. Dual Enrollment with Central Alabama Community College Additional Info: Testing Requirements: 4th Grade and up, entry test required Registration Deadline: March Uniforms are required. Tuition: Please call for rates (334) 478.3888 adullumhousechristianacademy@outlook.com www.adullamhouseca.org
Bethany Christian Academy
1765 Highland Ave., Montgomery, 36107 Founded: 1899 Religious Affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist Leadership: Principle: Jerlene Johnson-Thorne Grades: Kindergarten to 8th Extra Curricular: Clubs: Music, Global Missions trips, Environmental Camp, Computer and Pathfinders Additional Info: Accreditation: AASAS, NCPSA, SUCOE, AdvancEd Testing Requirements: Admission test Registration Deadline: Open registration Other: Before and After school care. Tuition: Please call for rates and registration fees or visit our website. Uniforms required (334) 264.1078 Link on website http://antp25.adventistschoolconnect.org
Chapman Christian Academy
4711 Chapman Rd., Millbrook, 36054 Founded: 1994 Religious Affiliation: Christian Curriculum: A Beka, Bob Jones and South Western Publishing Co. Leadership: Principal: Jon Chapman Grades: K4-12th
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Uniforms required for K5 – 9th.
Extra Curricular: Clubs: Chess Additional Info: Accreditation: National Association of Private Schools Testing Requirements: Grade level testing performed upon entry. Tuition: Competitively priced with other schools in the area. Please call for rates.
(334) 271.4200 Link on website www.lcapirates.com
Montgomery Christian School
3265 McGehee Road, Montgomery, 36111 Mission: To provide an academically challenging Christian education to children in inner city Montgomery. Leadership: Principal: Kathi Atkins Grades: Kindergarten K -5th Additional Info: Testing Requirements: None, Interview and assessment Registration deadline: Open Accreditation: ACSI Tuition: Based on family income and the number of children in the family Uniforms required.
(334) 285.5354 Link on website www.chapmanchristianacademy.com
East Memorial Christian Academy
1320 Old Ridge Road, Prattville, 36066 Founded: 2002 Religious Affiliation: Christian/Southern Baptist; Ministry of East Memorial Baptist Church Curriculum: ABEKA, Bob Jones, Apologia and Positive Action for Christ Leadership: Director: Bryan Easley Grades: K-4 through 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Volleyball, football, cross-country, basketball, cheerleading, track, baseball, softball and softball, Elementary soccer and basketball offered. Clubs: National Junior Beta Club, National Senior Beta Club, National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, Drama, Yearbook, Band, Art, Spanish, Color Guard and majorettes. Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Records reviewed and interview Registration Deadline: Open Accreditation: AISA, AdvancED (formerly known as SACS) Other: Daycare and Pre-school on site, 6 wks.-4 yrs. Call 358.4110 Tuition: Call for rates. Uniforms required.
(334) 386.1749 info@montgomerychristianschool.org www.montgomerychristianschool.org
New Hope Academy
301 Water Street, Prattville, 36067 Curriculum: We serve students with individual learning differences, including learning disabilities, autism/Asperger’s, ADD/ADHD, physical issues, etc. Our curriculum is individualized to each child’s learning needs. Examples of curricula used include TouchMath, Handwriting Without Tears, Reading Mastery, Excel Math, Explode the Code and Spectrum Writing. Leadership: Principal: Tina Halbert, M.Ed., NBCT Grades: K-12th Additional Info: Testing Requirements: The director will test for academic levels upon acceptance to the school. Registration deadline: Enrollment is on a year-round basis Tuition: Please see website for more information
(334) 358.4085 Link on website www.emcawildcats.org
Lighthouse Christian Academy
3570 Bell Rd, Montgomery, 36116 Founded: 1987 Religious Affiliation: Baptist Curriculum: A BEKA Leadership: Administrator: Gary V. Mohney Grades: K-2 through 9th Extra Curricular: Sports: Upward Basketball, AYSO Soccer, volleyball, cheerleading Clubs: Band, Choral, Fine arts, Bible Quiz, Spanish and Computer Class Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Interview Registration: Begins in February Accreditation: In process of having K - 9th grade is accredited through ACEA Other: Before and after school care; Christ oriented education. Summer fun program. Tuition: Please call school for more information
(334) 361.9505 tina@newhope4kids.com www.newhope4kids.com
New Life Christian Academy
4230 Hwy 14, Millbrook, 36054 Founded: 1979 Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Curriculum: A BEKA, Bob Jones, Alpha Omega, and Saxon. Leadership: Principal: Gepetta Rogers Grades: K-3 through 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Football, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, softball, and Volleyball Clubs: Jr. and Sr. Beta Club, Art Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes Additional Info: Accreditation: National Private Schools Accreditation Group
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Testing Requirements: Screening test to determine student readiness. Registration: open enrollment at the end of January Tuition: Call for more information. (334) 285.5615 www.newlifechristianacademy.com
Prattville Christian Academy
322 Old Farm Lane North, Prattville, 36066 Founded: 1997 Religious Affiliation: Christian Curriculum: PCA offers a 1:1 digital learning environment with a focus on preparing Christian leaders for life. Honors, advances placement and onsite dual enrollment classes are offered along with a Healthcare and Engineering Academy. Mission: Prattville Christian Academy seeks to create a meaningful difference by preparing Christian leaders for life. All subjects are presented with a Christian worldview by dedicated faculty and staff members who have a personal relationship with Christ. Non-denominational daily Bible classes and weekly chapel is required for all students. Leadership: President: Ron Mitchell Grades: Pre K-3 through 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: PCA is a member of the Alabama High School Athletics Association (AHSAA) and offers competitive sports programs for boys and girls that offer a connection with a small group of students with similar interests. Sports include football, volleyball, wrestling, basketball, golf, track, cross-country, cheerleading, indoor track & field, swimming, soccer, and fishing. Clubs: With more than 25 extracurricular options, there is something for all students and areas of interest. These activities include Ambassadors, Creative Writing, Science Olympiad, Band, Choir, Speech and Debate, Presidential Leadership Team, Engineering Club, Mu Alpha Theta, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Government Association, and many others. Additional Info: Testing Requirements: SAT and ACT Registration Deadline: None, applications accepted daily- tours available Accreditation: Prattville Christian Academy is accredited by the National Christian School Association (NCSA) and AdvanED. Tuition: Tuition is approximately $6,500 plus fees that vary depending on grade level. Tuition includes textbooks for all students and school supplies for grades K3-5. Family discounts available. Uniforms Required (334) 285.0077 www.4pca.com
TEA Academy (Talent Education & Art Christian Academy, Inc.)
2600 East South Blvd., Montgomery, 36116 Religious Affiliation: Generic Bible Base Teaching Curriculum: A-Beka Leadership: Headmaster: Prof. Maggie McElroy-Washington, MBA; MGMT, MKTG Grades: Grades: Pre K-12th Extra Curricular: Activities/Clubs: Choir, Debate, Student Government Associate, Dance Team, Weight Training Additional Info: Testing Requirement: IOWA Standardized Registration Deadline: Open enrollment. Must have a 3.20 GPA to enroll. Other: Certified teachers, School Days are Monday-Thursday from 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., (after school tutorial) Open to the community: 3:30-6:00 p.m., Summer Enrichments, Credit Recovery.
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Roman Catholic
Tuition: Please call for tuition rates. Uniforms Required. (334) 517.1717 Teachristianacademy1@gmail.com teachristianacademy.net
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School
Valiant Cross Academy
301 Dexter Avenue (located inside of River City Church), Montgomery, 36104 Founded: 2015 Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Curriculum: Alabama College and Career Standards and Alabama Course of Study Mission: Our mission, our purpose is to help raise young men up to be supernatural. Men who will learn from their youth, to let go of self, to let the Holy Spirit raise them to new heights. Courageous men, righteous men, committed men, loving men who will rise up to lead, to serve, to inspire. We will provide the armor to help them rise above. To rise above with Honor, with Discipline, with Integrity, with Excellence with Love. Leadership: Head of School: Anthony Brock Grades: 6th grade with a level added each year Extra Curricular: Sports: Track, Football and Golf Additional Info: Registration Deadline: Open enrollment in January Accreditation: AdvancEd and AISA Other: After-school enrichment and tutoring Tuition: Please call for more information on tuition rates. Uniforms required. (334) 694.9200 Anthony@valiantcross.org
ad on page 13, 76
Saint Bede Campus 3850 Atlanta Highway Holy Spirit Campus 8580 Vaughn Road) Middle School & High School 5350 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, 36116 The oldest continuous non-public K-12 school in the state of Alabama, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School was founded in 1873 by the Sisters of Loretto. Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic, all classes attend weekly Mass Curriculum: College preparatory, Honors and A.P. courses available. Religion is a core class. Mission: A K4-12 regional Catholic school in Montgomery with 146 years of educational excellence, Montgomery Catholic strives to help each student reach their God-given potential by offering the opportunity to grow in faith, with rigorous academics and opportunities to perform athletically and artistically. Mission: Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is an integral part of the Catholic Church’s mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. As an adult community, we share in the responsibility to prepare students for college and beyond while helping them grow to become persons of faith, virtue and wisdom. Leadership: President: Anne Ceasar Elementary Principal St. Bede Campus: Laurie Gulley Elementary Principal Holy Spirit Campus: Nancy Foley Assistant Middle School Principal: Julie Wood 7-12th Principal: Justin Castanza Grades: Saint Bede Campus (K4-6), Holy Spirit Campus (K4-6), Middle School Phone (7-8), and High School Phone (9-12). Extra Curricular: Sports: Cross country, football, volleyball, soccer, cheerleading, golf, wrestling, indoor track, outdoor track, basketball, baseball, softball, and tennis. The Arts, Clubs and Service: Concert Band, Marching Band, Color Guard, Choir, Drama, National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club, Government Club, Forensics Club, Science Olympiad, Math Club, Pro-Life Club, Ambassadors Club, Chess Club, Pep Club, Drama, SGA, Yearbook, VEX Robotics, Cyber Patriots, Young Women’s Leadership, Boys Leadership, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Girls on the Run. Students have service opportunities throughout the year through Advisory classes and the Encounter program, helping them to share the Light of Christ in the community. Additional Info: Testing Requirements: Placement test (February, June and August.) Registration deadline: March of preceding year. Open House: Sunday, January 13, 2019 from 2-4 p.m. at all campuses. Families are invited to visit the school and meet our faculty and staff and learn more about our program. For more information, contact Director of Admissions, Julie Lopez: 334-318-3777, jlopez@montgomerycatholic.org Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School offers athletics and drama summer camps. Students in grades 9 -12 participate in a one-to-one Apple laptop program. Tuition: Approximate K4-6: $6,300-7,800; 7-12: $7,200-9,900, MultiChild Discount Offered. Rates subject to change. Uniforms required.
www.Valiantcross.org
Victory Baptist School
3151 Highway 14, Millbrook, 36054 Founded: 1971 Religious Affiliation: Baptist Curriculum: A Beka and Bob Jones Leadership: Principal: John Lopez Grades: K4 through 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Football, boys& girls basketball, girls volleyball, girls fast pitch softball, boys soccer, cross country, track, and cheerleading Clubs: Yearbook, Drama, and Government Additional Info: Testing requirements: Interview for admission. Registration deadline: Enrollment for new students is year round Accreditation: AACS, NACSAA, MSA-SCESS Other: After school care provided by daycare until 6 p.m., I pads and Chrome Books accessible to all students, Smart Boards available for classrooms. Tuition: Please check website for updated tuition. Uniforms required. (334) 285.0211
www.vcamillbrook.com
Residential Alabama School of Math and Science ad on page 67
Alabama School of Math and Science, Mobile, 36604 Mission: Mission Statement: The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science’s mission is to provide academically motivated Alabama students with exceptional preparation in the fields of math, science, and the humanities, empowering them to improve their community, state, and nation.
Grades: 9th - 12th Extra Curricular: Sports: Girls/boys basketball, Track and Field, tennis, soccer and girls volleyball and cheer. Arts: Choir and band. Over 35 clubs on campus (Key Club, Allies, Anime, Black Student Union, Environmental Science Club, Cooking Club, Future Business Leaders of America, Chess Team, Future Engineers’ Club, Yearbook, German Club, Off the Leash, IGNITE, IMPACT, Lab of Learning, HOSA, Heroes of Health, Red Cross Club, Technalliance, Origami Club, Movie Club, Scholars Bowl, Weightlifting Club, Women of the World, Multicultural Student Union, Swing Dance Club, Yoga Club, Ultimate Frisbee). Other: Debate team, Robotics team, Mathematics team, Science Olympiad & SGA. Additional Info: Requirements: Application and Interview Application Deadline: February 14, 2019; Accreditation through Advanc ED Tuition, room and board are free.
Saint Bede Campus: (334) 272.3033 Holy Spirit Campus: (334) 649.4404 Middle School Phone: (334) 272.2465 High School Phone: (334) 272.7220 www.montgomerycatholic.org
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Resurrection Catholic School ad on page 27, 77
2815 Forbes Dr, Montgomery, 36110 Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Curriculum: Basic; strong traditional skills core curriculum with extensive enrichment & acceleration. Religion classes required; technology emphasized; enrichment in arts & conversational Spanish; strong ac-
(251) 441-2100 admissions@asms.net www.asms.net
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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celerated reading program in place. After school care, hot breakfast and lunches, computer technology. Leadership: Principal: Mr. Tamarcus Milner Grades: Preschool age Pre K4- 8th Extra Curricular: Sports: Cheerleading and basketball available Clubs: Student Council, Male and Female Mentor Programs, Dance, STEM Club, Book Clubs, Home Economics, and Choir. Additional Info: Testing Requirement: Placement Pre K - 8 Registration deadline: Please call for dates. Accreditation: Advanced Ed. (Formerly known as SACS) Other: Google School, Acellus, Weekly Mass service, Partnership with Cleveland YMCA Sports, Public Speaking Readiness, AR Star Program, FREE, First Class Prek4 program and Summer Enrichment and Feeding Programs Tuition: Affordable; call for more information. Family discounts available. Uniforms Required. (334) 230.1970 school@resurrection-missions.com www.rcsmontgomery.org
Unique Learning Needs Churchill Academy
ad on page 49, 68
395 Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery, 36117 The only comprehensive school program in Montgomery specializing in educating bright children with unique learning differences. Founded: 1996 Curriculum: Individualized academic programs Leadership: Director: Kaye Pair, M.Ed. Grades: K -12th Extra Curricular: Clubs: Scouts and academic tutoring Additional Info: Registration: Begins January Testing Requirements: Previous diagnosis of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder or other, and average to above average intellectual functioning, however Churchill will also conduct a testing evaluation to gather more up to date and relevant information to assist in placement. Accreditation: National Independent Private School Association and Advanced ED (formerly known as SACS) Tuition: Please call for tuition prices. Scholarships available. Uniforms required. (334) 270.4225
A great program for K-1st repeaters
www.churchhillacademy.net
2019 Private School Guide
Call 334-549-8955
may be found on our website throughout the year at www.montgomeryparents.com! 91
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ch co nin as wa pe From strengthening relationships to achieving a healthier lifestyle, we all have behaviors we’d like to change to create a more satisfying life. But when we have families, establishing more positive habits can prove tricky. To get your family motivated, begin by focusing on one behavior at a time and make changes in a fun, collaborative way.
Curb sibling battles. Nothing makes a parent want to pull her hair out more than listening to her kids battle it out day and night. Refocus how your kids treat each other by rewarding cooperation. First, define what it means to treat each other with respect and kindness. Then, using a token point system, reward behaviors that fulfill your expectations. “It’s important that the behaviors are very specifically identified and reinforcement is very immediate,” says Dr. Jane Sosland, a child psychologist. For example, you might say: “’I really like the way you answered your sister there.’ Or, ‘I really like the way you guys are cooperating.”’
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Keep track of points earned by using a sticker chart; a jar with marbles, cotton balls or poker chips; or beads on a string. To encourage teamwork, your kids must have an equal number of points to redeem for a special reward. When each child has earned 20 points, they earn an outing to a prized destination.
Get more active. Aiming for a healthier lifestyle? That’s easier if your family is involved. Invite them to help you make a list of activities you can all enjoy together at least once a week. Ideas could include visiting a nature center, strolling through a museum, going for a bike ride, spending the day at the zoo or swimming at your local community center. During extra busy weeks, plan simple activities like shooting hoops, playing hopscotch or tossing a ball in the backyard.
Eat a more wholesome diet. Plan well-rounded meals, beginning with meals you know your family will embrace. Half the plate should be covered with a fruit or vegetable and the other half with grain and protein. Encourage family buy-in by including your kids in the planning and preparation of meals. Replace common snack foods like chips, cookies and snack cakes with colorful fruits and vegetables, beginning with the ones your kids like, such as carrots, celery, natural applesauce, watermelon, blueberries or canned peaches in a light syrup or juice. As you set out to make healthy dietary changes, avoid creating barriers for yourself that will make success more difficult like limiting yourself to fresh organic fruits and vegetables. “That’s a really difficult goal to achieve,” says registered dietitian Shelly Summar. “Make sure the goals you set are realistic.” And, Summar adds, don’t feel bad about purchasing canned fruits and vegetables. They are good alternatives when fresh produce isn’t handy.
PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN
welcomes
DR. MALISSA HOY Now accepting new patients ages newborn to 18 years P H YS IC IA N S TO CH IL D R E N Taylor Medical Complex 470 Taylor Rd, Suite 210 Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 293-5033 P
P H YS I C I A N S TO C H I L D R E N C h i l d re n s A L . o rg / p hys i c i a n s - t o - c h i l d re n
Connect more by disconnecting. These days, family time competes with an array of extracurricular activities and screen distractions. Become 93
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intentional about making space for unplugged time together, whether through a regular evening meal or by creating traditions like a weekly family game night. Summar, who has two teenage girls, says that her family has enjoyed a “Sunday Fun Day” tradition for years in which the family plays games together, laughs and talks. “In a fun situation, you can find out a whole lot more rather than sitting down one on one and drilling them,” she says. Grow more intentional about screen time. Rather than disappearing down individual digital rabbit holes, use technology together to strengthen communication skills and creativity. For example:
• Invite your child to Facetime or Skype with grandparents. • Show her how to start a private blog about one of her favorite subjects. • Take digital photos together and collaborate on a photo book or a calendar. • Make a vacation video using the app “One Second Every Day.” • Seek video games that entertain, educate and encourage critical thinking. And, connect with your kids by playing their favorite video games with them. Not only do kids like teaching their parents how to play games, researchers at Arizona State University (ASU) found that gaming together generates conversation opportunities. “Our research is finding that sharing this experience cultivates family bonding, learning and well-being,” writes Sinem Siyahhan, assistant research professor at ASU’s Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics. Above all, remember that changes come easier when they’re rewarding-and that goes for kids and adults. mp
Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband are the parents of two boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.
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Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Bumblebee MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: A After the fall of Cybertron (home planet of the Transformers) to rogue elements known as Decepticons, Bumblebee (voiced briefly by Dylan O’Brien) is sent to Earth to lie low until the rest of the justice-seeking Autobots can reassemble and fight back. While there he encounters Charlie Watson (Hailee Steinfeld), a teenage outcast and mechanical enthusiast, who finds and repairs him. With her help, Bumblebee tries to stay hidden both from the government and from the Decepticons who have arrived on Earth to hunt him and the other Autobots down. Parental concerns with this film will be quite limited. Unlike other entries in this franchise, there is no sexual content (including crude jokes), and violence is almost solely between Transformers. Humans are rarely harmed. The language is also considerably milder, with profanities being both fewer in number and milder in content than in past films. Viewers familiar with the Transformers franchise might expect Bumblebee to share the weaknesses of the other films - irritating plots and bloated runtime. Fortunately, Bumblebee is, by comparison, the best of the bunch. That said, this is definitely still a Transformers movie, and if you don’t have the patience for giant space robots that turn into cars (or planes, or helicopters, etc.), then you won’t like this one any more than the other films. The movie isn’t perfect, but considering where it comes from, it’s made a lot of progress.
MPAA Rating: PG Runtime: 117 minutes Overall: AViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Miles Morales (voiced by Shameek Moore) is enduring adolescence. Frustrated with the elite school he attends, Miles sneaks out of the dorm one night. He links up with his cool Uncle Aaron (voiced by Mahershala Ali), and they head down to abandoned subway tunnels where Miles works on his graffiti skills, and gets bitten by a spider. We all know what happens next, but Miles is horrified when he starts to sweat profusely and sticks to everything. As the truth finally dawns on him, he goes searching for the original Spider-Man, and finds him just before his death at the hands of Kingpin (voiced by Live Schreiber). Spider-Man a.k.a Peter Parker, was trying to destroy a super collider built by the super villain to open multiple universes. Peter Parker gives Miles a flash drive and makes him promise to use it to destroy the machine before Kingpin can destroy all of reality. Miles is in way over his head, but luckily Kingpin’s initial use of the super collider has drawn other spider superheroes into our universe. They can’t stay because their atoms are degrading – “glitching” – and they must return to their universes or die. The web-slingers all agree that Miles isn’t ready to work with them because his powers are undeveloped and poorly controlled. For his own safety, they tie him up and head off for the ultimate conflict with Kingpin and his evil minions. Not surprisingly, this superhero movie is packed full of violence of the “bam” and “kapow” variety. Characters are punched, kicked, thrown, hit, tossed, choked, and stomped throughout the film. Very little blood and few injuries are shown. This film is easily suitable for teens; as for younger children, parents will want to consider their tolerance for violent action before bringing them to the theater. The minor negatives also come with some big positives. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse has great messages about the strength of family relationships, being patient with maturing abilities, and having faith in yourself. When Miles, frustrated that he can’t use his special powers at will, asks Peter B. Parker, “When will I know I’m ready?”, Parker replies, “You can’t. It’s a leap of faith.” Miles, like every other teenager, needs to find the courage to take that leap. Far and away the most striking feature of this movie is its visual design and animation. Not only do Sony’s animators manage to create the sense that the story is taking place in a living comic book; they also move effectively between different visual styles. The dominant aesthetic is a highly stylized pop art style, but it comes through in scenes with smooth, computer animation as well as in sequences that have a hand drawn look. Each of the other superheroes - Peter B Parker (Jake Johnson), Spider-Gwen (Hailee Steinfeld), Spider-Ham (John Mulaney), Peni Parker (Kamiko Glenn), and Spider-Man Noir (Nicholas Cage) also has a distinct animation style – film noir for Spider-Man Noir, anime for Peni Parker, a Saturday-morning-cartoon look for Spider-Ham – all of which are beautifully rendered. The film is truly a visual feast for animation devotees and casual fans alike. With this outstanding animation and an appealing story, this Spider-man film may well find itself swinging into the Oscar-verse.
Mary Poppins Returns MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A“I was flying a kite and it got caught on a nanny,” announces an excited Georgie Banks (Joel Dawson) to his father, Michael (Ben Whishaw) and Aunt Jane (Emily Mortimer), who are in the middle of a discussion concerning Michael’s dire financial situation. Luckily for everyone, the nanny Georgie caught is none other than the inimitable Mary Poppins (Emily Blunt). Mary Poppins’ special talents are badly needed because the Banks family is facing a crisis. Unlike the original Mary Poppins movie, where Jane and Michael had to be trained out of being lazy, selfish, and argumentative, the younger generation of Banks children are generally earnest, helpful, responsible, and desperate to help their father and save their home. In this film, Mary Poppins is much less didactic and teaches the children gentle lessons, almost entirely through song. “A Cover Is Not the Book” warns the kids against judging based on appearances; “The Place Where Lost Things Go” comforts the mourning youngsters; “Trip a Little Light Fantastic” urges them to find light in dark places...and so on. Audiences will not be surprised by the direction the plot takes. A happy ending is expected and is provided. But as with any Disney production, the joy is in the journey. This is a good family movie and the audience at the screening I attended clapped and cheered at the end. 95
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FamilyCalendar Wednesday, January 2
Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided. Winter in the Studio at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also January 3 10-11 a.m. Come to the Museum and create a winterthemed project. During open studio hours, drop in anytime to make an artwork. Each day will feature a different project and technique. We’ll supply the materials—you bring the creativity! For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
together to form a “festival chorus” and perform five pieces under the direction of Dr. Cherwien. Participating ensembles include Faulkner University Chorus. The concert is free and open to the public. For more info, contact Allen Clements (aclements@faulkner.edu). Michael’s Kids Club -- Also Jan. 12, 19 & 26 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3-8. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. Jan. 5 is Fuzzy Snow Friends; Jan. 12 is Snowman Canvas; Jan. 19 is Cool Winter Mugs; and Jan. 26 is Thumbprint Snow Scene. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.
Sunday, January 6
First Sundays at One -- Also February 3
ecuted, this is a Broadway-style production featuring the extraordinary imagination and hard work of the dancers, musicians, writers, photographers and technical talent that comprise the student body at BTW. Limited seats are available for online purchase. To acquire general admission or VIP advance tickets, please visit http:// btwfameboard.org. Tickets are $20 each.
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Saturday, January 12
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Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop!
Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at
Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also January 16 and February 6 Noon-1 p.m. Does your yoga practice need a little artistic inspiration? Join us for this new program to stretch, reflect and relax. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale. The class is free and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/discover/ artful-yoga/ or call (334) 240-4333.
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Thursday, January 3
Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -- Also January 10, 17, 24 & 31 2:30 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures. ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is Mexico). Connections will also be made to works in the Museum’s galleries. Classes are limited to 25 students. First come, first serve. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
Saturday, January 5
1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the traveling exhibitions as well as the Museum’s Permanent Collection in these FREE docent-led tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
Wednesday, January 9
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces. edu/counties/Elmore/.
Tour of Lanark Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook -- Also February 2 Hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. Saturday programs are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a look around the hands-on Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453.
The Muses at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also January 16, 23 & 30 4-5 p.m. The Muses is a teen council that enjoys creative experiences and collaborates to help shape the Museum’s teen program offerings and more. Participation allows students to meet professional artists and peers, learn about working in an arts and cultural organization, and gain real-world experience in event-planning, outreach, and project management. To learn how to represent your school and become part of the Muses, contact Elisabeth at epalmer@mmfa.org.
Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. This month, you and your child can build an easel to display artwork from school or create a new masterpiece on the dry-erase whiteboard. Once your project is built, you and your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops.
Friday, January 11
41st Christian College Choral Festival Concert 7-9:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Hundreds of singers from six colleges and universities will come together for an evening of great choral music under the direction of Dr. David Cherwien of the National Lutheran Choir. Each ensemble will perform two selections individually, after which all of the singers will join
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also January 25 10 a.m.-noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round (except during November and December). Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http:// www.onlineecho.com. BTW Magnet High School’s SHOWCASE 2019: Rise Up! -- Also January 12 7 p.m. Jan. 11; 2 p.m. Jan. 12. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Fully choreographed, designed and ex-
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For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www. facebook.com/events/1374454692792666/?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 6121086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com. Second Saturdays at Old Alabama Town 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Second Saturdays bring special programs for the whole family including crafts, music, lectures and more! For more info, call (334) 2404500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com/. Animal Track Casting at Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. Here we will learn about the types of tracks different animals make such as raccoons, foxes, deer, and turkey! Bring the kids and even make your own cast of an animal track to take home. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. TRAXXAS Monster Truck Destruction Tour Garrett Coliseum. Drivers step out of their full-size trucks to compete and showcase the freestyle capabilities of Traxxas radio control monster trucks These giants will compete in racing, wheelie contests, and freestyle action during the Traxxas MTD Tour in front of millions of fans. For more info, visit: https://traxxas.com/motorsports. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also January 26 For guests and families living with autism or other special needs, AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and
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Calendar turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! This program is available on second and fourth Saturdays (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don’t forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.
Sunday, January 13
Art Talk & Afternoon Tea Series 2-4 p.m. Pike Road Town Hall. These relaxing Sunday afternoon gatherings feature a Pike Road-area artist, classic tea-style refreshments, and time to connect with friends and neighbors! Art Talk & Afternoon Tea is presented by the Pike Road Arts Council, and refreshments are provided by Epicurean Delights. This month will feature artist Barbara Davis. Tickets are $20 each, and seats are limited. Purchase tickets by Jan. 9 at https://pikeroadarts.ticketbud.com/art-talk-andafternoon-tea-featuring-artist-barbara-davis.
Wednesday, January 16
See Me: Exploring Abstractions at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. This program designed for students with special needs will explore abstract works in the galleries and then create mixed-media abstracts. Free and designed for ages 6 and older. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org. Community Healing Night -- Also January 23 5:30-7:30 p.m. Frazer UMC. A Community Night of Healing giving insights from pastors and counselors on facing some of the biggest obstacles to living fully alive. Dinner available. After the presentation a healing service will be offered to pray for physical, emotional and spiritual wholeness. Topic Jan. 16 is overcoming anxiety and fear; topic Jan. 23 is hope for depression and suicide. For info, e-mail khendrix@frazerumc.org or call (334) 495-6397. Financial Peace University -- 9 week course ending March 13 6-8 p.m. Frazer UMC. Learn God’s ways of handling money with Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University! The average turnaround is $8000 in just the first three months. For all adults and teens attending with a parent. Childcare available through age 12. $69 activation fee per individual/family plus $9.99 per month for access to online resources (or $109 one-time fee including a full year of online access). For more info, contact lorijohnstonfpu@gmail.com.
Thursday, January 17
Food For Thought Noon-1 p.m. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Folklorist Ruby Pickens Tartt: Composing a New Score,” presented by Tina Naremore Jones. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov.
The Making of an American State 10 a.m., Pike Road Branch Library. Presented by Dr. Ed Bridges.
Friday, January 18
Alabama Nature Center Camp In: Snore and Explore -- Through January 19 5 p.m. check-in; 9 a.m. check-out Sat. Spend the night in the Discovery Hall with some of our resident animals, roast s’mores around the fire, take part in animal encounters, go on a night hike … and so much more! $13 per attendee; tickets must be purchased online by end of day Jan. 17. Space is limited. Recommended minimum age is 6. Minimum 1 adult per 3 children. Contact Tyler at tburgener@alabamawildlife.org or (334) 285-4550 for details or booking.
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FamilyCalendar 5th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Citywide Celebration Davis Theatre, 251 Montgomery Street. There is a 10 a.m. matinee and a 6 p.m. evening performance featuring the Montgomery Interfaith Choir. Presentation of the Beloved Community Awards will also be done. This is a collaboration between Friends of the Theatre, Troy University and Alabama State University. Tickets: 10 a.m. matinee $5; 6 p.m. evening show adults $10. For more info, call (334) 229-6755 or visit www.keepersofthedream.org/News-or-Reviews.html.
Saturday, January 19
Third Saturday @ Art Museum 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view at the Museum in these FREE docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. For info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/. YP Polar Plunge @ Kowaliga Restaurant Kowaliga Restaurant, 295 Kowaliga Marina Road, Alexander City. Hosted by The Lake Martin Young Professionals. Join the LMYP as they support the Lake Martin Resource Association. Come walk, run, or dive into the lake in the dead of winter! Of course there will be food and drink specials from Kowaliga Restaurant, a warm-up tent, music, and fun and games. Call (256) 215-7035 for more info. Really Wild Animals Presentation at Alabama Nature Center Program begins at 10 a.m.; animal encounter at 1 p.m. Want to get up close and personal with some of the ANC’s really wild educational animals? Join us as we learn about salamanders, frogs, turtles, snakes, alligators and more! Some of these animals you will even get to touch. General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453.
Monday, January 21
Freedom Rides Museum Celebrating Coretta: Alabama’s First Lady of the Movement Celebrate the life and legacy of Coretta Scott King. From her childhood in Marion, Ala., to the halls of Washington, DC, she never stopped marching in support of Civil Rights, dignity, and justice for all. We will have familyfriendly activities going on throughout the day, where you can learn more about the roles of women in the Civil Rights Movement. For more info, call (334) 414-8647.
Thursday, January 24
ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Join this monthly program for Museum members during which artists share one artwork apiece and receive feedback from their peers. Get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative process in this unique program designed for artists in the area as well as those interested in art. Enjoy light refreshments and networking with other professionals in this unique program whether or not you choose to bring artwork. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@ mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4365. Cost: $50 for the series of 12 meetings or $5 drop-in fee for single meetings. An Expressive Evening at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Write. Dance. Sing. Draw. Enjoy a free evening of teen creativity at the Museum! Each year the Muses, the Museum’s teen council, organizes and hosts a tableau of artistic expression presented by local students. Past acts have included poetry, vocal, and instrumental performances. Register by Monday, January 7. For questions, contact Elisabeth at epalmer@mmfa.org. Frazer Kindergarten Registration 8:30 a.m. Open registration for Frazer Mother’s Morning Out, Preschool, and Kindergarten. We accept children ages 6 weeks through kndergarten. For info, please call (334) 279-0271 or e-mail frazerpreschool@gmail.com.
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Friday, January 25
Confederate Memorial Park Winter Quarters 1862 Through January 27 Marbury. Living historians from the Independent Rifles will host as visitors experience camp life, drill, commissary, and other routine duties of the average Confederate soldier. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Four Little Girls: Birmingham 1963 -Through February 13 Written by Christina Ham; directed by Tangela Large. Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Addie Mae Collins—four little girls who are multitalented and filled with promise share their hopes and dreams against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. Produced in collaboration with Montgomery Public Schools. Recommended ages 11+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.
Saturday, January 26
Alabama Nature Center Rocks! 11:30 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Ready to “Rock Out?” Come visit us to search for and paint some nature scene rocks! This program will be informal and will be good for children and adults alike. All materials will be supplied. Feel free to hide your rock around the ANC once you are done, or take it home as a souvenir. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. 2019 Korean Cultural Experience A Korean Cinderella Story 6-7:30 p.m. Davis Theatre, 251 Montgomery Street. The Alabama-Korea Education & Economic Partnership (A-KEEP) has organized the fourth Korean Cultural Experience. It is the story of a young girl named Konji who triumphs over adversity and schemes of her evil step-mother and step-sister. Tickets: students $10 with ID; adults $20. For more info, visit www.akeep.org or call (334) 625-8515.
Thursday, January 30
The Crabb Family Concert 7-10 p.m. Frazer UMC. “Encore Tour 2019” features The Crabb Family, Mike Bowling, and The Bowling Sisters. Tickets are available in the Frazer Bookstore or at www. outsidethebox.events; use promo code HOST for $5 off your online order.
Saturday, February 2
Old Cahawba’s Road to Freedom Wagon Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. One hundred years BEFORE the 1965 Voting Rights March focused on the Dallas county courthouse in nearby Selma, a brave community of recently emancipated African-Americans gathered around an older courthouse in Cahawba. This wagon tour tells the story of Cahawba’s African-American majority and traces their path from slavery to freedom with a special emphasis on how they reshaped Cahawba as they pursued their dreams of equality. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www. facebook.com/oldcahawba. Admission is $8/person.
Thursday, February 7
MPAC Presents Wayne Newton 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $27. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Wetumpka Depot Presents Girls’ Weekend Through February 23 7:30 p.m. performances except for one 2 p.m. matinee February 17. Written by Karen Schaeffer and directed by Brady Walker, this lightning-quick farce features four women who travel to Dot’s Northwoods cabin to consume copious amounts of wine, laugh at their lives, trade stories and chat about their book club’s latest
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selection. However, each lady has some secret plans that have nothing to do with the book club and more about romantic trysts. The madcap, door-slamming chaos comes to a head when Dot discovers her girls’ weekend is full of men! For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.
Classes Adoptive Parent Training Classes
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections recruits, prepares, and supports parents adopting waiting children in Alabama’s foster care. For information on adoptive parent classes or to register for classes in Alabama, contact our team at (866) 803-2722 or visit apac@childrensaid.org. Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org to register or for more info. Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 286-3466. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series First Mondays every month from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight.
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FamilyCalendar Even if you don’t perform every time - you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 747-7700 Option # for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/ LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@alabamachild.org. Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart
Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497.
Preparing For A Natural Birth (One Time Class) Baptist Medical Center East. Please bring two bed pillows and a floor mat to class for breathing and relaxation exercise. This class equips expectant parents with natural childbirth options providing them with tools, techniques and coping skills for their labor and delivery experience. Participants will practice breathing and relaxation exercises along with other comfort measures. Space is limited. Pre-registration required. Class fee: $20 (couple or single) payable at class by cash or check. Please email smallwonders@baptistfirst.org or call 273-4445. Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are January 16 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.
Support Groups Adoption Support
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., at Vaughn Forest Church. For more info, contact Jill Sexton at 409-9477 or jsexton@ childrensaid.org.
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FamilyCalendar Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@ yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 for more info. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for
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Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@ frazerumc.org. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 2796677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721.
treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.
Divorce Support
DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at
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Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 495-6350 for more info. GriefShare meets on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in the parlor of First United Methodist Church Prattville. Led by Michael Beatty. For more info, call the church office at (334) 365-5977. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is nondenominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2
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years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail. com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com
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Illness Support
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 495-6350. Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss Support Group Meets at 6 p.m. third Wednesdays starting in October at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. Group is for those living with or caring for someone with memory loss. This will be a monthly event that will provide information, a time to share and listen to others experiencing what you are, a time to be supported in your struggles and to share your victories. All are invited. Sometimes caregivers just need to talk with those that understand their struggles. For more info, call (334) 235-4151 or visit The Gathering Place Community Respite on Facebook. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 2796677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance.
Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance on Mental Illness) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 7205 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. NAMI also presents a 12-week series of free classes on mental illness. These classes are for family members living with or supporting individuals with mental illness. To register, call Mary Jo at 271-2280 or e-mail classicmjl@hotmail.com. Overeaters Anonymous, Millbrook City Chamber of Commerce meeting room, 34531 Main Street in Millbrook. Saturdays at a.m. Trouble with food? Do you worry about the way you eat? Overeaters Anonymous can help. It’s not a diet club; it’s a fellowship of people who don’t want to suffer anymore. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively.
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FamilyCalendar There are no dues, fees, or weigh-ins. Visit our new meeting in the area. All are welcome! For more info, call (662) 425-2010 or visit www.oa.org. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer UMC Activity Bldg. Room 8114, on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 495-6350.
Parent Support
Century Strong Moms 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 11 Chapel Hill Street in Pike Road. At Century Church, we are dedicated to helping moms in our community be Strong Moms! This ministry is open to all moms in our community. The focus of this group is to build relationships through Bible study, play dates, and moms’ night out. Childcare is available for ages 1-5 years old. Please e-mail lifegroups@century. church for more info. D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery CityCounty Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, in-
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terested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http:// www.llli.org/groups/@llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information. Moms in Prayer International is a Christ-centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gather to pray for their children and schools. Meets every Sunday afternoon from 3-4 p.m. at St. James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road. Call Annette Jones at (850) 529-4730 or e-mail Montgomerymipac@gmail.com for more info on joining us or training to start your own group. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of
fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google. com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@ gmail.com or visit http://vfcmops.weebly.com/.
Pregnancy Loss/Infertility
Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/ infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977.
Post-abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net. First Choice Women’s Medical Center conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet for one weeknight over eight consecutive weeks and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. Confidientiality is assured. Please contact Kathy at (334) 260-8010 or kkay@firstchoicewmc.com for more details and information about upcoming groups. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.
Single Parents Support
God Will Make a Way, Frazer UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Learn to follow God’s principles to thrive relationally, emotionally, and spiritually in 12 key areas of life and use God’s wisdom to cope with your most difficult problems. E-mail singles@frazerumc.org. Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800.
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Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.
Special Needs Support
Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2018 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a free online parent empowerment network for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www. montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail. com for more info. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo. com. Visit www.ahif.org.
Teens/Families Support
Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.
Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Piecing Together Playtime
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Combining recreation with reward, toys that derive part of their enjoyment from their assembly are ideal for every age. Moving beyond the entertainment value of a standard toy, playthings that foster their own construction have added benefits. The building process supports developing motor skills and helps young minds grasp the process of design. Additionally, having a hand in the mechanics of assembly helps kids understand cause and effect relationships while encouraging testing and experimentation. The following items support self-confidence in children as they exercise their power of creation, building their own playthings, piece by piece.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Ad
Take Apart Wooden Block Animals
Kidtastic Take Apart Dinosaurs
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Perfect for the mechanically minded fan of dinosaurs, this three-pack of cretaceous creatures includes 106 BPA-free plastic pieces that assemble into Tyrannosaurus Rex, Elasmosaurus and Triceratops. Using one of the three universal screwdrivers that work the connector screws for all, little hands can make quick work of building their dinosaur squad. The cultivation of logic, problem-solving skills and fine motor control are extra benefits for kids as they put together each creature. Echoing elements of real paleontology with its nod toward the assembly of dinosaurs from assorted parts, Kidtastic Take Apart Dinosaurs is the perfect combination of 3D puzzle-solving and prehistoric play.
(Fun Little Toys)
Before they curate the first residents in their little zoo, Fun Little Toys’ Take Apart Wooden Animals lets kids build their animals all on their own. Featuring 48 wooden pieces, this set includes the building blocks for an adorable giraffe, a smiley tiger, a cute zebra and a lovely lion, all waiting to be connected into their 3D forms. Colorfully crafted with child-safe paints and smooth surfaces, each creature is easily recognized by its parts and simple for small children to intuit how they are put together. With nuts and bolts that are sized just right for little hands to grip and manipulate, no tools are needed for kids to get right to the task of assembling their own mini menagerie.
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Battat Take Apart Roadster (Battat)
Combining vintage style with easy elements, the Battat Roadster puts the rubber to the road for young automotive engineers. Using a battery-powered reversible drill with three interchangeable bits, children can easily assemble the 18 sturdy plastic car parts into a sleek automobile that’s road-ready for playtime.The roadster’s open seating also invites the inclusion of other toys to come along for the ride. Encouraging the development of fine motor skills and intuitive construction, this kit is also an ideal introduction the the ‘righty tighty, lefty loosey’ mantra that will serve them the rest of their lives when approaching a mechanical task.
Pidoko Airplane
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Before pretend play takes off, kids can experience the mechanics behind the marvels of flight with the PIdoko Airplane. Guided by a step-by-step manual and using two easily handled tools, children can draft their first biplane from colorful, sturdy wooden parts. This hands-on exploration of mechanical concepts supports STEM thinking and exploration as kids build their first plane. This kit also offers alternative building options can stimulate young minds to explore their own design options and build creativity. Adding a DIY wrinkle to constructive play, the Pidoko Airplane adds a learning lift to playtime hangar.
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Ea Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
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AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.
Evangel Christian Academy, 30, 70
New Park, 2
Family Guidance Center, 88
Newtopia, 61
Adventure Sports II, 16
Frazer Memorial UMC, 55
OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 25
Alabama Christian Academy, 29, 66
Grant Joy Learning, 20
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 82
AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front
Guardian Credit Union, 15
Prattville YMCA, 45
AL School of Math & Science, 67
Guild Mortgage, 57
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 52
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 22, 71
Pump It Up Party, 89
Aldersgate UMC, 28
Hooper Academy, 36, 72
Read Write Learning, 9
Armory Athletics, 51
Integrative Wellness, 17, 43
RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back
ASKIN/Synergy House, 91
Jackson Hospital, 63
Redland Baptist Church MMO, 48
AUM Dixie Baseball, 16
Kindermusik at FBC, 27
Resurrection Catholic School, 27, 77
Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 30
Kingry Orthodontics, 94
Riverview Camp for Girls, 84
Baptist Health, 4
Lakeview Baptist Church, 65
Saint James School, 1, 78
Birmingham Museum of Art, 23
Learning Tree Child Care, 83
Spotless Cleaning Services, 8
Body Logic Physical Therapy, 3
Little Lights Creative Learning Ctr, 93
Success Unlimited Academy, 35
Chapman Orthodontics, 21
Lola Photography & Portrait Studio, 91
Swim Prep, 48
Children’s Clothing Exchange, 25
Macon East Academy, 39, 73
Sylvan Learning Center, 24, 79
Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 93
Mathnasium, 34
Sylvan Learing of Prattville, 47
Christ Community Church, 11
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 51
Taylor Road Baptist Church, 82
Churchill Academy, 49, 68
Montessori @ Mulberry, 19, 74
The Montgomery Academy, 75, Back Cover
CMH Mobile Notary Services, 36
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 13, 76
The Rock School, 53
Cornerstone Christian School, 37, 69
Montgomery Dermatology, 34
Tomatino’s Pizza/Cafe Louisa, 59
Dentistry for Children, 43
Montgomery Gray Softball, 31
Trinity Presbyterian School, 7, 80
Docarmo’s Taekwondo, 65
Montgomery Miracle League, 20
Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 99
Dr. Den Trumbull Book, 45
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 97
United Gymstars & Cheer, 41
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 24
Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 86
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 60
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 31
Montgomery Storks and More, 89
Vaughn Road Preschool, 87
Eastwood Christian School, 40
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 85
YMCA Montgomery, 60
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 99
My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 21, 33
Young Living Essential Oils, 20
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joking. Once new people come through an invitation, they tend to never want to leave. MP: In what ways are you raising your daughters to have the same values you do? Cretia: I teach my girls that God is first in all things, then family, friends, etc. Some of the same values that I was raised on are what I’m trying to instill in them.
Cretia Brown
MP: How do you prioritize your busy life so that you have quality time with your husband and children? Cretia: With my first daughter, Jamyiah, it was a bit difficult being a single mom while trying to work and go to school. I made some mistakes, but had some guidance from my mom and her godmother, which helped me manage somewhat. Ten years later, Skylar shows up, and I felt like I was a professional mom. Soon I realized I didn’t have it all together, but I remembered how important establishing schedules would be. So I created a strict schedule/routines that are non-negotiable. I have feeding times, nap time, and bath time under control. By creating a schedule it helps both me and baby Skylar. I can rest or do work while she’s sleeping.
MP: Our parents have a primary influence on our values and expectations for ourselves. How have your parents influenced you? Cretia: Growing up, my mom instilled the fear of God in me. She made sure I went to church and Sunday School. My mom taught me values that help me to be the person I am today. I’m not perfect, but I try to learn from my mistakes and unwise decisions. Respect was number one. There was no such thing as talking back or being DISRESPECTFUL in my home. She said that you should treat people how you want them to treat you. From that, many things evolved, like honesty, loyalty, forgiveness, compassion, gratefulness and so much more. As a child, I learned the importance of family time. I am the second oldest but the only girl so, needless to say, I was overly protected and had more chores than my brothers, which ultimately taught me independence. I didn’t understand then, but now, as a parent of two daughters, I understand why they were so protective of me. I spent more time with my mom’s side of the family as a child so quite naturally she’s one of my best friends. Once I entered my late teens, I started spending more time with my father and he has become like a best friend as well.
MP: What do you do for yourself that helps you keep your energy up? Cretia: I try to make time for myself. I enjoy decorating, getting my hair done twice a month, visiting the nail salon twice a month, exercising, eating healthy and living a healthy lifestyle, but first and foremost I PRAY often. I believe that the key to success is by having a real relationship with God. MP: Name something you’ve gained since becoming a mom. Cretia: I’ve gained a new respect for working moms and stay at home moms. Raising children is a big responsibility. I believe God has equipped each of us with special gifts to help us fulfill this big obligation. MP: What is one thing you never had that you want for your girls? Cretia: I want my daughters to be able to explore the beauty of the world. I want them to experience life as it relates to going outside of the United States. MP: What is the most rewarding part about motherhood? Cretia: I love to see my babies smile and laugh. I love to see them happy. It makes my day when I come home or pick them up after work and they both run to me with those big, beautiful smiles and give me a hug and kiss.
MP: Does your family have any special family traditions? MP: If you could go back and tell yourself one thing when you first started the parenting journey, what would it be?
Cretia: Every Sunday my mom cooks dinner for her four children and their families. I’m a picky eater so she always makes sure I have a special dish. My mom and dad both have large families, so I love gatherings with both sides of my family. Every person has a dish that they are to bring to every function. I enjoy laughing and talking with both the young and the old. My mom is extremely silly and always
Montgomery Parents I January 2019
Cretia: I would tell myself to find a schedule/routine and stick with it. Cretia Brown is a Biology Lab instructor at ASU. She is married to Steven Brown and they have two daughters, Jamyiah (11) and Skylar (1).
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River Region
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C O M M U N I C AT O R , CRITICAL THINKER AND MASTER OF THE COLOR WHEEL [ PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE—THE BEGINNING ]
What do MA graduates look like? Diverse in every way, yet they share surprisingly similar qualities. As early as kindergarten, The Montgomery Academy looks ahead to the kinds of qualities a young adult needs to succeed. Programs are structured, and experiences are designed around creating lifelong learners who challenge themselves. Co-curricular involvement is planned to champion honor, ethics, diversity and service. We do all this—but if you ask our first graders what they do in school, they’ll simply tell you they have fun. And show you their paintings.
Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y The Pursuit of Excellence in K-12 Education
COME SEE US AT K-VIEW, OUR KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM PREVIEW. PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE A DATE THAT IS CONVENIENT FOR YOU. Contact Rachael Gallagher, admissions@montgomeryacademy.org | 334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org