Montgomery County Schools

Rising Montgomery Academy Senior Participates in Boys State

Rising Montgomery Academy senior Mason Kim participated in the annual Boys State experience at Troy University. Mason served as a House representative and County revenue commissioner for the week.

“It was a great honor to represent our school and serve as a House representative and County revenue commissioner.” Alabama Boys State is one of the highest honors granted to Alabama students. Students from across the state are chosen based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals, and motivation in school and community activities. At Boys State, student delegates will find the opportunity to build new friendships, participate in a mock government, and hear from and meet a diverse array of Alabama leaders such as Congressmen, state elected officials, business

Churchill’s New LocationSame Commitment to Students

Churchill Academy, Inc. is excited to announce our new location for the 20232024 school year! For the up-coming school year, we will be located in two local churches – Taylor Road Baptist Church (1685 Taylor Road) for our lower school, K-8th grade and First Christian Church (1705 Taylor Road) for our upper school, 9th-12th grade. We are so appreciative to these congregations for assisting us in housing our school. Our building was sold last winter, leaving parents and educators diligently working to secure a new location and to convert the school to a non-profit. Churchill Academy continues to be a member of AISA and is accredited by Cognia-SACS. Visit our website: https://www.churchillacademyinc.org/. Please contact one of our administrators if you have questions about the school or application process.

Evangel Christian Names Mr. and Miss ECA

Evangel Christian Academy recently named the school’s 2023 Mr. and Miss ECA during the High School Awards Day ceremony. Jazni Lewis and Jordan Sharp were chosen for this distinguished honor. The two seniors were chosen by the faculty and student body. Jazni and Jordan were chosen because of their Christian testimonies as well as their academic and leadership skills.

Summative and Formative Assessments Applies to Staff Too at TEA Academy

Summative assessment is an important part of the learning cycle, and ultimate only comes with excellent preparation. Therefore, as TEA Academy prepares for the upcoming school year, they have conducted theirsessments as a school and team, and they are ready for their everyday Formative Assessment challenges.

According to Dr. Maggie McElroy-Washington, the principal and CEO of TEA Academy, says all staff must be committed to going that extra mile if they expect the student to be committed to learning. As educators we must provide quality services to the students, which means teaching and helping every student to be successful, keeping in compliance with the continuous improvement plan as an accredited school. Team TEA commitment is to provide quality education to all students...

Because They Matter!

God Has A Plan And A Purpose For Me

Evangel Christian Academy

Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11

Accredited:

Montgomery County Schools

MA Rising Senior Attends Alabama Girls State

Sarah Kate Ingram, a rising senior at The Montgomery Academy, attended the 2023 edition of Alabama Girls State as MA’s appointed representative. Alabama Girls State is a week-long, fun-filled, hands-on learning opportunity for some of the best an brightest young women in the State of Alabama. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), Alabama Girls State is a premier youth leadership program that offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its delegates.

“Attending Alabama Girls State at Troy University was an amazing experience!! I was able to meet some of the most accom plished girls from all over the state. Upon arrival, we were assigned to cities and also divided into two fictitious political parties for elections. I was assigned to the city of Yellowhammer and was a part of the Federalist political party. We got to see first-hand how the election process takes place and how political parties work from the inside. At our Federalist party caucus meetings, w set our party platform that served as the basis for election speeches. Each city elected a Mayor that held meetings each night. There were also numerous statewide offices up for election. We heard speeches from girls in our party and then elected a Federalist representative who went on to run against the Nationalist Party representative. Interspersed among speeches and elections, we heard from many speakers including Senator Katie Britt and Governor Kay Ivey, who are both Girls State Alumni. In addition, most afternoons were spent debating and passing bills. The days were long but filled with countless memories of wonderful experiences and new friendships. I am forever thankful for my week at Girls State.”

Saint James Performing Arts Performs You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown

The Saint James School Performing Arts Department produced its annual spring musical on April 20-23, 2023. This year the show was You’re A Good Man

Charlie Brown

The Saint James show was directed by Lonny Harrison with musical direction by Dr. Sallye York. The show featured many well-known Peanuts scenes. Students from elementary, middle, and high schools combined their talents to make an incredible show! Live musical accompaniment was pro vided by Dr. Sally York on piano, Mr. Andy Martin on percussion, and senior Selina Sun on clarinet. Leading roles included Austin Oh as Charlie Brown, Jimmie Thompson as Snoopy, Lizzy Dickens as Lucy, Mary Ann Coon as Sally, Alex McIlwain as Schroeder, Jacob McNally Linus, and Abigail Roark as Peppermint Patty. Other student roles included Eva Light as Violet Gray, Matilda Butner as Matilda, TJ Vance as Franklin, Zachary Rains as Pig Pen, MaryEllis Killough as Frieda, Nathaniel Sherbine as Shermy and Jaxon Mason as Roy. The Peanuts Gang Included Vara York, Maddy Stuart, Kinsley Barber, Evelyn Bond, Arin Oh, John Wilson McDowell, Joy Seo, Ae’riel Hooks, Sarah Elizabeth Phillips, Bethany Stanton, Sadie York, Cecilia York, and Amley Hooks. Stage manager Lily Everett oversaw the student crews and production. Saint James students also worked the production as backstage crew, publicity, sound crew, house crew, lighting, and costumes. Set design was created by senior with the assistance of the Saint

Bridge Builders of Alabama Holds Junior and Senior Summer Conferences

Bridge Builders of Alabama held its annual youth leadership conferences during the month of June. During the week of June 12-14, Junior Conference was held, and Senior Conference happened on June 19-21. Students from public schools, private schools, home schools, and parochial schools learned leadership skills and communication skills which will enable them to learn to value each other’s differences and work as a team. Bridge Builders offers the only free of charge leadership training of this type to the youth of the River Region.

The first day of each 3-day long conference was held on the campus of Saint James School. Students were able to get to know each other in teams. Bridge Builder Facilitators worked with the students as they tackled a variety of activities focusing on team-building exercises, leadership development, and helping students learn things about each other and ways to work together better. Day 2 activities were held at The Lab located on Dexter Avenue. Mr. Richard Bradford of Renasant Bank and a Bridge Builders Board member spoke on handling money responsibly, how to handle checking accounts, savings, and money investment. This workshop gave insight into real world skills. That afternoon the students enjoyed discussions focusing on STEM projects led by Mr. Zachary Lewis. The final day was based out of St. John’s Episcopal Church from which students ventured to the Equal Justice Initiative Memorial and Museum. The discussions that took place after these visits were integral to the understanding of race relations and history. Executive Director Ellen Farmer said, “Both the Junior and Senior conferences this year were very powerful. The students were eager to learn and connect with their peers. It was a beautiful thing to watch students from all different backgrounds come together and build lasting relationships with each other. I always tell them ‘the youth of today are the leaders of their future’ in hopes to help them understand the importance of a leader and making a positive difference in the world today.”

Bridge Builders Alabama was founded in 2007. At the beginning of the program, the students committed to a two-year program. The focus was, and is, teaching skills such as civic responsibility, critical thinking, trust, problem solving, communication, conflict resolution, human relations, and leadership. The first graduating class of students was in 2009, including students from Booker T. Washington Magnet, Brewbaker Technology Magnet, Carver High School, Jefferson Davis High School, Montgomery Academy, Montgomery Catholic School, Revelation Missionary Baptist, Robert E. Lee High School, Saint James School, Sidney Lanier High School, St. Jude Academy, and United Christian Church. In 2018, the Bridge Builders Board adjusted the program to two one-year programs. Students can participate in one year or both years during their junior and senior years. Moving forward into the school year, the students will be responsible for required hours of community service offered through the year. The students will get to choose from a number of non-profits that need help in the River Region.

New Athletic Director at Montgomery Academy

The Montgomery Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of as Athletic Director, effective July 1, 2023.

School in Huntsville, AL where he has served as the Associate Director of Athletics since 2017. Coach Ward began his teaching and coach ing career in 2008 at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, GA as the Athletic Office Administrative Assistant, Varsity Boys Bas ketball Coach and Assistant Football Coach. He helped lead the Westminster Varsity Boys Basketball team to playoff appearances in 2009, 2010 and 2013. In 2013, Coach Ward moved to Randolph School where he taught History, was the chair of the Middle School Physical Education department, and coached boys and girls basketball and football at both the Middle School and Varsity levels. Coach Ward graduated from Furman University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and received his Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of North Georgia.

“I am thrilled to welcome Wright Ward and his family to the MA community,” said Head of School John McWilliams. “As a teacher, coach and as athletic administrator, Wright has extensive experience in outstanding independent schools in Alabama and Georgia, and it is clear that he understands the vital role that interscholastic athletics play in supporting our mission as a school of developing leaders. I look forward to working with him as we continue our ‘pursuit of excellence’ at MA.”

“My family and I couldn’t be more excited to be joining Montgomery Academy!” said Ward. “From the moment I set foot on campus, I could tell it was a special place and that feeling continued to grow as I met more and more of the MA community, including parents, faculty and staff, and most importantly, the students. We can’t wait to get there, and are proud to say ‘Go Eagles!’”

Pike Road Schools Welcomes New Junior High Principal

Please join us in welcoming Christy Owen Wright to Pike Road Schools. Christy has been married to husband, Michael Wright, for ten years and has four children, Tate and Emory Owen and Alex and Izzy Wright. She has been an educator for sixteen years, including eight years of administrative experience. For the past four years, she was Assistant Principal at Holtville High School.

Mrs. Wright shares, “I have already discovered that PRJHS has a very talented group of Lead Learners, but parents and community stakeholders are also integral members of the learner’s team. Therefore, I look forward to meeting you all very soon as we begin our journey toward academic excellence together.” Mrs. Wright is passionate about helping learners see their full potential and creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for them to excel...Rooted in Growth!

Pike Road Patriot Band Camp

Week 1 of band camp was a true highlight as one of our lunches was sponsored by the recent graduates of PRHS Class of 2023, and they showed up to serve lunch to our current band

Pike Road Students Shine at Summer Show-Offs

From July 10th to July 14th, talented rising 1st through 12th graders gathered for an unforgettable experience. Throughout the week, they dedicated themselves to learning vocals and choreography for five sensational songs. Their hard work and passion for music and dance were truly inspiring. The final performance on July 14th left the audience in awe. The energy and talent displayed by each participant were absolutely incredible. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the campers, their families, and our amazing staff for making this year’s Summer Showoffs a resounding success.

Macon East Graduate Goes on TROYventure

Glamping and yoga on the quad, shopping downtown, photoshoots, pool parties and more - TROYventure was a dream come true for recent Macon East Academy graduate, Anna Glynn Lott ! Anna Glynn was chosen to be a Social Media Ambassador for Troy University based on her College Decision Day choice to attend TROY, resume, academic achievements, and public presence on social media. She had the opportunity to experience all things TROY in just 2 days! From meeting faculty and alumni, making new friends and getting to know more about the campus and the City of Troy, it was an adventure she will never forget!

“Anna Glynn Lott, who plans to major in nursing at TROY, agreed that the band party was among her favorite activities. “My favorite event was the band party in downtown Troy and being able to hang out with all of the girls and experience what it is like to live in Troy and be a part of the community,” she said. TROYventure also provided evidence for those who participated that they, indeed, had made the right college choice. Anna Glynn is beyond excited to tell the incredible story of Troy University through her own eyes!

Autauga County Schools

Marbury High School’s SRO Honored for Heroic Actions in January Tornados

Robby Johnson, Autauga County Sheriff Deputy and Marbury High School’s School Resource Officer, was awarded The Alabama Association of School Resource Officers (TA ASRO) Life Saving Award for his heroic actions and exemplary service while on duty at the high school on January 12, 2023. This award is given to an SRO or school staff member for the act of saving a life and is presented during the organization’s annual Safe Schools Conference.

The massive tornado decimated parts of north Au tauga County leaving a warlike path of destruction severely limiting accessibility and spreading thin first responders from across the River Region. Deputy Johnson administered first aid treatment for 45 minutes until an ambulance was able to transport all three victims to the hospital for further treatment. His emergency training and quick action allowed all three victims to make a full recovery without any complications. In the days after the tornado, Deputy Johnson and his Autauga County Sheriff’s Department colleagues aided in the search, rescue, and security of the impacted areas.

“Robby is everything that is commendable and worthy of immolating in a School Resource Officer,” said Tony Camara, Coordinator of Operations for Autauga County Schools. “As the one charged with safety and security in our school district, I rely on these guys to keep our students and employees safe in everyday and extraordinary situations. Deputy Johnson’s immediate instinctual action in the midst of chaos is the very thing that we need in today’s unpredictable world.”

Prattville Show Choir Members Attend Camp

A few of Prattville High School’s Spotlight Show Choir members enjoyed performing cutting-edge show choir shows under the direction of some of the nation’s top vocal directors and choreographers at this year’s Showchoir Camps of America. The nearly 500 students, including ACS’ Jaci Cone and Madison Cruse, participated in workshops, watched evening performances by Broadway and pop stars, and auditioned for dance ensembles, vocal jazz ensembles, and a talent showcase.

Summer Camp Fun at Pine Level Elementary

At Pine Level Elementary School this summer we hosted Summer Camp for our students. The students pictured are using cooking sheets and magnetic letters to build the alphabet arc. The alphabet arc is a good way for children to have visual and multisensory support to practice blending, segmenting and auditory processing. It also allows them to practice the sequence of the alphabet. These skills are essential for reading and spelling.

Volumes of Fun at D.P.E.S.

Fifth graders in Ms. Bradley’s math class worked in groups to construct zoo animals using rectangular prisms. Groups measured the dimensions of the boxes to determine the total volume for each zoo animal. Boxes were then wrapped to showcase student creativity and make their designs come to life!

PCA Girls State Representative

Julia Smith ‘24 represented PCA at Girls State held at Troy University. The competi tive leadership program is focused on teaching responsible citizenship, leadership, and love for God. Julia described it as a “life-changing experi ence” that equipped her with the skills and confidence to stand up for her beliefs. In some ways, her experience was “indescribable.”

Prattville Intermediate Professional Development

This summer, several faculty members from Prattville Intermediate School were able to attend the professional development conference, Get Your Teach On. Get Your Teach On (GYTO) specializes in professional development and encouragement for educators and administrators in the form of conferences, workshops and events. Our teachers were able to gain valuable insight and learned tricks, tips, and teacher secrets to build successful, engaging and rigorous classrooms that challenge the students of

Prattville High Graduate Excels at National Debate Tournament

Brooklyn Woods graduated from Prattville High School in May 2023 as a highly decorated member of the Speech and Debate Team as well as Senior Class President. As a member of the debate team, Brooklyn learned critical thinking, writing and presentation skills and showcased these qualities in competitive civil discourse where she explored both sides of an argument. As a junior, Brooklyn was State Champion in Programmed Oral Interpretation (POI) and Poetry and repeated as State Champion in POI again her senior year. In February of 2023, she competed in the Mockingbird Speech and Debate District Tournament held in Birmingham and, since she placed first in her event, she qualified for the National Speech and Debate Tournament held last month in Phoenix, Arizona. Katie Olienyk, Brooklyn’s Debate Coach, took three PHS students to Arizona where they competed against 275 students from across the country. Brooklyn ultimately finished in the top thirty in the nation - she is the fifth Prattville High Student to place in the top 30 since 2006. Brooklyn will attend the University of Alabama this fall where she was awarded a full-tuition scholarship to be a member of the award winning UA Forensic Council. She will be traveling throughout the country competing. Brooklyn is the 16th Prattville High School student to receive the full tuition scholarship since 2006.

Autauga County Schools

Career and Technical Education Students Earn Hundreds of Program Certifications

Autauga County Schools students were awarded 265 Career Readiness Indicator (CRI) certifications during the 2022-2023 school year. These CRI certifications ensure alignment with industry-recognized standards and are available to secondary students throughout the district as a part of ACS’ Career and Technical Education program offered through the Autauga County Technology Center.

Career Readiness certifications and credentials provide students with the industry-required skills necessary to compete in today’s economic environment, producing globally competitive students with 21st-century skills, as well as validating knowledge of skill attainment, increasing student confidence, higher income potential, opening doors for industry networking, and demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning. “We want to give every student in our district the opportunity to be as successful as they desire to be,” said Holly McNider, Curriculum and Instruction Director for Autauga County Schools. “Our district’s career and technical program provides for dozens of industry opportunities that can be customized based on the student’s plans beyond high school. Graduating with immediate employability skills or a deeper understanding of the pathway a student pursues with additional education is a win for everyone, most certainly for the student, but also our community and the organizations that operate here in our area.”

Autauga County Schools currently offers 14 of the 16 national career clusters. These clusters include courses that teach academic and technical knowledge and skills students need to pursue various career industries. To learn more about Autauga County Schools’ career and technical education programs, visit www.autaugatech.com/.

Books n Bagels at Daniel Pratt Elementary

Mrs. Dickerson’s 6th grade students enjoy participating in “Books n Bagels” in her classroom. They start by having a book scavenger hunt. Students then break into small groups to share about the books they are currently reading. Lastly, they get some time to silent read while eating bagels and other treats. This helps students see reading as a shared experience rather than an assignment.

PCA UCA Cheer Camp at Auburn University

PCA’s cheer teams headed to Auburn University for UCA Cheer Camp and came away with long-lasting memories, new skills, awards, and experiences. PCA concluded the camp with the entire PCA program winning the Leadership Award, an award voted on by the 500+ cheerleaders at camp. Each camper is asked if they could be on any other cheer team, which would it be? PCA being chosen for the Leadership Award speaks volumes to our program and the examples they set for other cheerleaders. Varsity won 1st place in the Camp Routine and Sideline, and JV was awarded a Superior trophy. PCA also ended with six All-Americans: Ella Grace Byrd, Brady Hardman, Mady Roy, Eboni McKee, Rich Moxley, and Anabelle Weedon. Three members were invited to join the UCA staff: Pearson Goff, Brady Hardman, and Ella Montiel. Our mascot, Prowler, also won the mascot Mushy and the School Traditions Award. We are so proud of our cheer program and all they accomplished last week! Congratulations!

PCA Attends Volleyball Camp in Foley

PCA’s Volleyball teams traveled to Foley to participate in the ACE Volleyball Team camp! The varsity team came out Silver Bracket Champions, and the JV team made it to the gold bracket, where Anniston Robison was awarded the Backbone award!

To top it off, Bayside Academy’s legendary AHSAA volleyball Coach, Ann Schilling, helped as the varsity’s court coach over the week and awarded Leah Cate Wilson the “Awesome Attitude Award.”

Macon East Students Participate in AISA All-Star Football

The 2023-2024 school year is off to a great start in Elmore County! All our schools are bustling with staff and students settling into their schedules and routines.

Macon East Fourth Graders Enjoy Field Trip

The issue of school safety – physical and psychological –is a major area of focus for Elmore County. Physical safety involves protecting students from violence, exposure to weapons and threats, illegal substances, etc. Psychological safety efforts promote building trust among staff, students, and families and creating an environment that empowers students to report safety concerns. Keeping our schools safe allows students to concentrate on academics and extracurricular activities, thus helping them to reach their full potential. Specific actions we take to improve school safety include the annual update and Board approval of our Student Handbook and Code of Conduct. This year, we will also implement a threat assessment process to help us manage safety-related situations on school campuses. All Elmore County Public Schools staff are expected to wear a photo identification badge while on campus. All visitors must be checked in through the Raptor Visitor Management System and wear a printed photo identification badge at all times while in the building. A retired law enforcement officer has conducted a security audit of all school system facilities to identify areas for improvement, and we are addressing these areas. Finally, additional school resource officers (SROs) are in place throughout the system. Despite these safeguards, we still depend on our staff and students to remain diligent and heed “if you see something, say something” by reporting suspicious activity to school administrators.

Ms. Johnson’s fourth grade class enjoyed an educational field trip this past Friday that goes along with their study of Alabama State History. The students were able to tour Alabama’s historic Capitol. They were able to view the beautiful rotunda, the spiral staircase, the Avenue of Flags, and the portraits of the former governors. The students also enjoyed touring The First White House of the Confederacy and The Alabama Department of Archives and History. Their special treat added to an already fun-filled day was eating lunch at Chris’ Famous Hot Dogs. Special thanks to Mrs. Custard and her daughter for taking time to guide us and give their expertise at all these historic places.

Eight Macon East student-athletes were honored to participate in the 2022 AISA All-Star Football game held December 2 at Cramton Bowl. Deonte Powell, Sanders Manning, Gabe Spencer and Hunter Tillman all represented Macon East for the East team. Gabe Spencer was honored as Most Outstanding Offensive Back for the East team. Madison May, Ar’monni Payne, Hannah Kate Hodges and Mikalah Belser cheered the East team on from the sidelines as part of the all-star cheerleading squad. The participants enjoyed a few days of practice with their fellow AISA teammates. The East team beat the West team this year 36-22.

Finally, mental health resources for students and staff are readily available. We have begun implementing the Teen Mental Health First Aid program at the high school level. This program teaches students how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance abuse use challenges among their friends and peers. Plans are in progress to expand this training during this school year. Students at all grade levels are encouraged to reach out to their teachers, counselors, or other trusted adult on campus when they need help of any kind. Our employee assistance program is offered through American Behavioral. We also partner with other agencies to provide services and/or make referrals as needed.

Elmore County is committed to providing high-quality instruction in a safe environment and the necessary academic, social-emotional, and mental health support for our students and staff. Our goal remains: Every Student Empowered – Every Student Succeeds.

Pike Road High School Leo Club Collects Chrismtas Toys for Kids

Our Leo club did a great job collecting toys to help make Christmas merry and bright for lots of children!

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.

Elmore County Schools

ECTC Hospitality Students Assist with Chamber Luncheon

Students from ECTC’s Hospitality & Tourism program teamed up with Front Porch Grill to serve at the Millbrook Chamber annual awards luncheon.

Med Students from ECTC Attend Conference

Two ECTC Medical Sciences stuAllye Justiss and Kirsten Cummings, both from Elmore County High School, competed at HOSA’s International Leadership Conference

Wetumpka Middle Cheer Team Attends Camp

Out WMS Cheer Team enjoyed their week at CHEER CAMP with Coach Duncan and Coach Lee. Take a look at a few of our AMAZING squad’s accomplishments while at Auburn’s UCA Cheer Camp.

Two All Americans: Lauren Avery Castro & Chloe Strength; Pin it Forward recipient: Xion Morris. The team placed: 3rd in Sideline, 3rd in Camp Dance, 4th in Cheer, 4th in GameDay Overall Performance and much more! Way to go ladies!

Elmore County Students Visit

WSFA Weather Camp

Kharli (WES), Adelyn (RES), and Mason (HMS) were chosen for the WSFA weather camp, along with other students from the River Region. They were recently live during Today in Alabama and they showed it again in the 5 PM Weather.

Wetumpka High Students Earn Research Fellowship

Addison Sims and Anna VanErmen were accepted into a summer research program at the department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at Auburn University. They both received a Microbial Genomics and Evolution summer research fellowship.

This was an awesome opportunity as they got to learn about microbial science, genomics and get hands-on experience in research in the lab. They spent two weeks learning about computational biology and doing various wet-lab experiments in this amazing program which encourages a passion for STEM.

Why Your Young Athlete’s Social Media Matters

Do you have an athlete in your home? If you do, this article is definitely for you. My husband and I raised two athletes. Our sons have been playing baseball since they were four years old. My youngest has actually tackled all three sports, baseball, basketball, and football. And up until my oldest graduated this year, we did not know what lazy beach summer vacations looked like. If it didn’t involve dirt, a bunch of stinky boys, temps hotter than the face of the sun, folding chairs, and a lot of baseballs, we weren’t doing it. I would not trade those days for anything.

While my kids were good at their sports, they were not great. Meaning they were off the scholarship to college and beyond level. However, there are A LOT of kids that are. And they put in massive amounts of sweat equity to secure those scholarships. I have witnessed so many athletes (girls and guys) lose their place on their high school teams and their potential for college scholarships due to misuse of their social media. I will share a few ways to mitigate this and how to use their social media to get noticed in the RIGHT way when looking for scholarships.

Athletes need to remember they are in a position to represent themselves and the school. This brings a lot of pressure and some scrutiny. Some ways to ensure they do not attract the wrong type of attention to themselves are:

(1) Keep it clean. No foul language. No inappropriate picture sending. Basically, no junk.

(2) Keep it kind. Always support your teammates. And never...and I mean NEVER...use their platform to make fun of or bash other teams.

(3) Remember that the coaches and recruiters that they want to notice them WILL be looking at their social media. So if it is something your mom, dad, or grandma would be embarrassed that you posted, chances are a recruiter will not like it either.

(4) Ask your athlete to go back through their social media all the way to middle school. And remove anything that does not represent them how they want to be represented.

Athletes can also use social media to gain exposure to recruiters. Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube have allowed teen athletes to showcase their skills and achievements. They can post highlights, training videos, and game footage, allowing college coaches and recruiters to discover them. This increased exposure has made it easier for athletes to get noticed and considered for scholarships.

Social media makes personal brand ing easy. It allows teen athletes to create and maintain their brand. They can showcase their personality, values, and work ethic, making them more appealing to college coaches.

They can communicate directly with college coaches and recruiters. Many col leges and universities use social media to announce scholarship offers and com mitments from athletes. This information is readily available to the public, allowing athletes to celebrate their achievements and gain recognition from their peers, family, and friends.

Bottom line: There is great opportunity for our athletes to increase viability and help reach their scholarship goals. But they must remember that college coaches and recruiters often monitor athletes’ social media accounts to gain a sense of their character and decisionmaking. Inappropriate or offensive posts can jeopardize scholarship opportunities, so athletes must be mindful of their online presence.

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

I am not a morning person. Life at home with my toddlers used to be filled with mornings cuddling in PJs. Arriving at preschool on time was a challenge; I was often late. When my son started kindergarten, I was determined to get my act together and break the cycle. I gleaned ideas from the web, talked to other moms and put a system in place. I use these tips to get up and out the door in 45 minutes each morning.

Use Sunday Wisely

Think ahead and prepare for the week on Sunday; it helps save time in the long run.

1. Bag snacks, fruits and veggies for the week to save time on busy sports practice and running-around days. Doing this in advance also gives you a head’s up if stocking up on lunchbox staples is necessary, thereby avoiding last-minute shopping trips.

2. Use an organizing system to put together school outfits for the week. I bought a hanging system for my son’s closet with a compartment for each day. Every Sunday, we check the weather for the upcoming week and put outfits in each compartment. Sometimes my son wants to choose his clothes; sometimes he lets me choose. There is never an argument, question, or decision to make about what to wear in the morning.

3. Put an organizing system by the door for shoes and backpacks. Professional organizers often recommend an area with hooks for backpacks and a rack below for shoes. Having homework and permission slips ready in the backpack the night before is crucial.

The Night Before

4. Make lunches the night before. This includes filling water bottles.

5. Set the table for breakfast after doing the dinner dishes. You’re already in the kitchen; getting it all done at once makes sense.

In the Morning

6. Keep breakfast simple. Cereal with toast, yogurt or fruit keeps us on the go. Try to sit down and have breakfast as soon as the kids get up. This avoids the grab-and-go breakfast that research shows can lead to obesity. It also helps avoid last-minute spills on school clothes that could cause a meltdown for kids or parents.

Try this savvy breakfast trick: Always bake a double batch of muffins and freeze the extras. That way, the kids can just take one out and warm it in the microwave.

If you have a picky eater who wants a hot breakfast, try toaster waffles, make-ahead egg muffins or bagels.

7. Have your child use an alarm clock. We bought a Yoda alarm clock and gave it to our son as a present as he entered kindergarten. He was excited by the unexpected gift and in turn, was excited to use it. I was amazed when he skipped into the dining room each morning at 6:15 a.m., ready to start his day.

8. Most parents agree with this rule: No electronics before school. They are way too distracting.

9. With older children, get creative! A fun way to get tweens out of bed and moving is to turn on music in their rooms. Make it nice and loud and then sing and dance (if necessary), substituting words with phrases about waking up and getting moving. Groans may soon turn into laughter and they start preparing for the school day.

There is no magic and no two families are alike. Figure out what works for your family, then put a system in place. Planning ahead will help start the day in a more positive, less frazzled way. rrp

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

It’s that time again! Back to school is here, and the busy hustle and bustle schedule begins for many parents. With school-aged children, extracurricular activities will be in full swing. A local mom shares one of her quick and delicious recipes to take the stress out of your weeknight cooking.

Susan Chain has a multigenerational family in Wetumpka. She’s originally from Texas, but Alabama has been her home for 20 years. She and her husband, John, have been mar ried for 56 years. They have two children, ten grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. They also enjoy the luxury of retirement. Their daughter, Stephanie, is married to Mark McGuire, and the couple has been married for 15 years with three grown children and seven grandchildren. Stephanie is the Office Manager for Southland Transportation in Montgomery, and Mark works for the Department of Labor in Montgomery.

Susan shares, “We love to eat and feed our family. Stephanie and I both love sions about a family res taurant with her famous burgers and brisket and John’s great steaks, but they prefer not to put in the massive amount of time it would take. Instead, they enjoy cooking and being together as a family whenever possible.

Susan says, “I cook a mean beef brisket. It’s usually a 12- 15 lb. brisket. I trim it, marinate in a rub, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and set it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Then I slow cook at 225 degrees for 12-13 hours in the oven overnight. It is so tender you can cut it with a plastic fork.”

While cooking, some of Susan’s favorite things to use are Pampered Chef cookware and utensils. And her favorite skillets are 14inch Granite Stone and iron skillets.

One of the family’s favorite traditions is cooking Mexican food at Christmas. They’ve been doing it for over 30 years. Several family members cook tacos, enchiladas, fajitas (chicken and steak), guacamole, rice, beans, pico de galo, and salsa that day.

This month, Susan shares a quick and tasty meal handed down in the family. It’s perfect for your school night menu.

Italian Pasta Stir Fry

Ingredients

16 oz. pack of Linguine

1 lb. cubed chicken (seasoned with lemon pepper)

2 medium zucchini, sliced

3-4 Roma tomatoes, diced

1 medium purple onion, diced

1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic

2 Tbsp. olive oil

Grated parmesan cheese

Directions

Boil water and cook linguine according to package directions. In a medium skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, zucchini, tomatoes, onion, and garlic, and saute until crispy and tender. In a large bowl, add cooked linguine, chicken, and vegetables. Stir and add parmesan cheese. Serve with salad and garlic bread.

Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. When she’s not working as an Instructional Systems Designer and copy-editor on Maxwell AFB, she’s busy freelancing, blogging, or toiling away at her next book. Her debut book Bloom: How to Get from Good Enough to a Life You Love can be purchased on Amazon and girlyouwrite.com.

The years seem to pick up speed as your child gets older. One minute they are getting on the bus for kindergarten, and in the blink of an eye, they are walking across the stage at their high school graduation. Don’t let those years go by in a blur. Capture the first day of school with a tradition the kids will look forward to every year.

Freeze a memory

1. Drive to your local high school a few days before school starts. Capture a picture of your child standing by the marquee or in front of the building near the front door. You can also catch a picture of your child gazing up at the school while wearing his backpack. Taken every year, this makes a great collage of photos to display at their high school graduation party.

2. Every year before school starts, purchase a Time magazine and a People magazine. Have him pose with the covers to show what was in the news that year.

3. Buy a t-shirt from the high school spirit store in an adult size. Take a picture of the child wearing the shirt with her backpack on the ground next to her. It is a great way to show how she and her choice of backpacks change over the years.

4. Pose your student standing next to mom or dad in front of the house. Bring enough books for your child to stand on until he is as tall as his parent. As the years go by and your child grows, the child will need fewer and fewer books to stand on. In his high school pictures, Mom might be the one standing on the books.

5. Don’t forget to get a picture of Mom and Dad on the first day of school. Capture mom’s tears as the bus drives away and don’t miss Mom and Dad high fiving as the last child leaves the house.

Cook up something good

1. The night before school starts, bake a round loaf of bread and place a clean penny in the dough before it bakes. Before dinner, have all the kids hold on to a piece of the bread and break it off. The one that gets the penny will have extra good luck this year at school.

2. Start the day off right with a special breakfast. Choose a traditional breakfast of eggs and toast, whip up a smoothie for a light and healthy meal or lighten the mood with something silly like cookie cutter pancakes with whipped cream.