Student Spotlights – May 2026

June Holmes won third place in the Baldwin Humane Society’s art contest in the fourth and fifth grade division. The theme was ‘Pawsitive Vibes.”

Congratulations to freshman Vivian Marlow on being selected to serve as a page in the Alabama House of Representatives for Rep. Frances Holk-Jones!
Vivian has looked forward to this opportunity for years, and she was thrilled to spend her spring break taking part in this unique and enriching experience—where she even had the honor of opening the legislative session in prayer!

Fairhope West Elementary celebrates its art contest winners this year. Hadley Scyphers won second place for designing her own dream hotel in the Dream Architecture contest. She competed against fourth graders in Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Our theater department delivered a beautiful production that brought this beloved story to life. We kicked things off with a special Thursday matinee for students from our partner schools and the energy carried into two outstanding evening performances on Friday and Saturday. Bravo to our talented cast, dedicated crew, and Mr. Ethan Bennett for an exceptional show!

The excitement is real at Central Baldwin Middle School! Students showing PAWS-itive behavior around campus are being rewarded through our Bear Pride Program, and we are thrilled to celebrate our March Bear Bucks Winners!
$5 Winner: Caleb Cornell
$10 Winner: Daniel Scarberry
$20 Winner: Patience Smith
These awesome Bears were caught doing the right thing and earned Bear Bucks for demonstrating respect, responsibility, and great character!
Keep showing that Bear Pride, CBMS! You never know when you might be the next Bear Bucks winner!

Our Student Ambassadors, led by Director of Admissions Gabrielle Smith, did an outstanding job welcoming our rising 9th graders to campus for the first time at Advise & Thrive. While parents met with teachers and administrators, students were guided through engaging sessions about life at St. Michael.
We’re so proud of how our Student Ambassadors embraced their role in helping these new students feel at home, and just as proud of our faculty and staff for preparing our parents along the way.

The students of Veritas Classical Lutheran School, in Fairhope Alabama, brought their voices — and their witness — to the Arts & Crafts Festival! “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord!” — Psalm 100:1. What a blessing to see these young hearts singing for His glory in the community. A huge thank you to Jessica Cole and Mr. Hughes for leading our choir and making this beautiful moment possible!

St. James Episcopal School students had the opportunity to enjoy a special visit from author Elizabeth Owens Frost, writer of “Allie Gets Lost.” They loved hearing the story read aloud and meeting the author behind the book. We are thankful for the time she spent inspiring our young readers.

St Michael High School Hoops for Heart event did not disappoint! Students took on Fr. Connor and his Holy Hoopers—featuring alumni, coaches, and other familiar faces from our community—for a game full of energy and fun. Students and faculty stepped into roles as coaches, referees, and even commentators, fully embracing the moment with enthusiasm (and yes—costumes, too!). It’s a spirited, all-school effort that makes the day unforgettable. The highlight of the event was presenting a $2,700 check to the American Heart Association—our biggest donation yet!
This year’s event was especially meaningful as we continue to keep Mrs. Dudeck and Fr. Steve, in our prayers following their recent heart surgeries. We are grateful to share that they are both doing well. A heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Calvery and the Health & Wellness Club for the dedication and hard work that make this event both impactful and fun.

This Spring Break, seniors from Bayshore Christian School traveled across Europe, stepping into the pages of history, art, and faith.
They stood in awe beneath the ceilings of St. Paul’s Cathedral during Evensong, walked through Westminster Abbey, and encountered some of the world’s greatest works at the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. From the streets of London to the heart of Paris, from the quiet reflection at Normandy to the charm of Oxford and Bath, each stop told a story.
These moments, both profound and joyful, shaped more than memories. They offered perspective, inspired curiosity, and reminded students of the world beyond the classroom.
At Bayshore Christian School, learning extends far beyond the classroom into the world God has created.

St. Patrick Catholic School 8th graders stepped back into the Middle Ages recently through the game of chess. As part of their medieval society unit, they learned how chess mirrors the structure of feudalism. Each piece represents a role in medieval life. While learning the game, students practiced strategy, critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. What a fun (and competitive way) to bring history to life!

Renaissance School’s second annual Easter Extravaganza event was full of fun, fellowship, and sweet memories with our students, families, and staff. We loved celebrating together and are especially thankful that proceeds from the breakfast benefited the RSES senior scholarship started by last year’s senior class. Thank you to everyone who helped make the day so special.
#HappyEaster #RSES #EasterFun #SeniorScholarship #SchoolCommunity

At Bayshore Christian School, our kindergarten students took the stage for International Day, representing countries from around the world with confidence and excitement.
From traditional attire to meaningful songs and verses, each child brought their country to life in a unique and memorable way.
What a gift it is to witness these young hearts growing in knowledge, creativity, and courage.

Renaissance School was so grateful for the opportunity for our staff to visit Warren Wilson College.
As a federally designated Work College, Warren Wilson offers a unique model that blends academics, work, and community engagement. It was inspiring to learn more about a program that helps students build real-world skills alongside their education.
Thank you to Warren Wilson College for the invitation and warm welcome.

Foley FFA had several teams compete at South District Eliminations. The results are in, and the following teams or individuals have qualified for the state competitions:
-Ag Mechanics placed 2nd
-Horse Evaluation placed 4th
-Mahaley Bryant placed in the top two for Employability Skills
All students on these teams will be competing in their respective contests in May and June before the Alabama FFA Convention. Congratulations to all our teams for their hard work and dedication over the past several months preparing! We are proud of all the students that competed and stepped out of their comfort zones!

At Bayshore Christian School, service is more than a lesson—it’s lived out. Our 6th grade students collected 501 boxes of cereal for families in need, stepping forward with full hearts and willing hands.
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have…”
Hebrews 13:16
In partnership with Prodisee Pantry, our students are learning to love their neighbors well.

St. Patrick 3rd grade Knights colored and decorated pillows with encouraging phrases for foster children. They also created quilt squares for a quilt that will be displayed at school. Students work daily on “Being God’s Light in the World!”

Students at Veritas Lutheran School in Fairhope, Alabama enjoy weekly visits from Gulf Coast Taekwondo!

St. Patrick K-1st grades enjoyed a field trip to The Learning Campus at Gulf State Park, learning all about eco art, “Leaving No Trace,” exploring, having fun and learning about diverse ecosystems and how each student can do their part in furthering environmental stewardship.

As part of Easter celebrations at St. James Episcopal School, students took part in festive egg hunts, adventurous scavenger hunts, and an Easter Program filling the week before Easter Sunday with excitement and fun. We’re grateful for these shared experiences and the opportunity to celebrate together as a school community.

Two students from Bayshore Christian School have been selected to participate in the Association of Classical Christian Schools National Honor Choir.
Jeffrey Johnson and Lucas Johnson were chosen from students across ACCS schools nationwide, an honor that reflects both their dedication and musical excellence.
This summer, they will represent Bayshore at the ACCS Annual Conference, where they will rehearse and perform alongside outstanding student vocalists from across the country.
We are grateful to see their gifts used in such a meaningful way and look forward to all the Lord has in store for them.

Baldwin County Virtual School is honored to announce Jacob Warner was named United States Sports University Scholar Athlete of the Year.

Congratulations to our Florence B Mathis top 3 sellers from our coupon fundraiser! They got to participate in a money jump.

Baldwin Preparatory Academy is proud to celebrate the BPA National Honor Society Inaugural Induction Ceremony!
47 outstanding Trailblazers from multiple CTE pathways were selected for membership based on their exemplary demonstration of the four pillars of NHS: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. These students represent the very best of our community, and we look forward to all they will continue to accomplish.
Congratulations to our first BPA NHS members!

Foley Elementary School 2nd-6th graders who earned points during ACAP Testing Days for: attendance, using their ACAP tools, scratch paper, and best effort during the time allotted played at Foley Kids’ Park!
Thank you to ALL our teachers and families who have supported our students this year!

Foley Middle School Students of the Month were recently recognized with a certificate and pizza for lunch! Congratulations to Lakelynn Burch, Kylie Ransey, Bailey Brunson, A’Miah Moore, Georgia Kemmerling, Brantly Beachler, Emerson Dowdell, and Daniel Salto-Ocampo for being chosen for the character trait of Caring.

The Baldwin County Chamber Coalition awarded over $3,000 in scholarships to outstanding students through the Baldwin Connect Resume Contest.
Congratulations to Baldwin County High School’s very own Olivia Karras for being selected as the Overall County-Wide Winner!

Foley High School students Abigail Ables and Jacob Warner were both awarded as scholar athletes!
Jacob also won the scholar athlete of the year award out of all participants. He also has a perfect ACT score of 36. He is one of our swimmers and will represent us in Birmingham as a finalist for the Bryant Jordan award.
Way to go, Abigail and Jacob!

The kindergarten class at Nature Connect School had a fun week exploring weather, including the water cycle, cloud formation, and storm signs. Ms. Emily demonstrated an exciting thunder-and-lightning experiment. The students brainstormed words starting with Y and worked well together to solve a scrambled sentence, and played a math dice game. It was a great week of learning and playing at Nature Connect School!

Big congratulations to our FFA students for an amazing showing at District Competition!
On April 2nd, our teams traveled to Enterprise, Alabama, where they earned an impressive 3rd place overall finish!
Nursery Landscape Team – Kaligan Larkin, Kylie Singleton, Parker Lassitter, and Abby McKissack competed in General Knowledge, Plant Identification, and Landscape Estimating.
Ag Mechanics Team – Ethan Foster, Tyler Williams, Kanyen Mitchem, and Tony Stewart competed in General Knowledge and Problem Solving.
Both teams have earned the opportunity to advance and will compete at State in Auburn this June — we are so proud of their hard work and dedication!

On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, Bayside Academy inducted 33 students into the Ann Simpson Crosby chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS).
Congratulations to the following inductees: Sam Babcock, Reece Bell, Caroline Buster, Roen Cain, Kylie Campbell, Micah Carter, Parker Chunn, Isaac Coheley, Hayley Crocker, Charlotte Denniston, Lucas Dorman, Warren Fargason, Mason Flowers, Ben Freeman, Amelia Handwerger, Adelaide Kipp, Carlisle Kipp, Vivian Lokar, Ellis Marks, Kalindi McCullins, Jeremy Ou, Collins Peed, Fenn Schlesinger, Lucy Smith, Marion Smith, Charlie Sommer, Isla Stokes, Mary Helen Swift, Adair Therrell, Cody Thornhill,
Fulton Travis, Phoenix Vivier, and Mollie Williams.
The Ann Simpson Crosby chapter of the NJHS is an organization whose objectives are to create an enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote worthy leadership, and to encourage the development of character in all students of Bayside Academy. Membership selection requirements for NJHS are as follows:
1. Students with an overall minimum average of 93.0 or better for their 6th grade year and first
semester of 7 th grade OR 7 th grade year and first semester of 8th grade are eligible for
membership. Grade averages will be computed for numerically-graded courses only. Any
student with an average below 93.0 will not be considered for membership.
2. Academic achievement alone does not guarantee admittance into NJHS. Students are also
expected to demonstrate leadership, service, and character.
Pictured: Bayside Academy’s 2026 National Junior Honor Society inductees with Bayside
Academy’s Head of Middle and Lower Schools Daniel Kriebel.

This self-portrait project was a wonderful way for students to reflect on how they see themselves while building confidence through art. We are so proud of the thought, effort, and personality shown in this work.Great job!
#RenaissanceSchool #StudentArtwork #SelfPortrait #CreativeExpression #AwakeningPotential

Bayside Academy is proud to announce that Amelia Hicks ’27 and Reece Wilmott ’27 have been selected to serve on the 2026–2027 United Way of Baldwin County’s Youth Board.
According to the United Way, “UWBC’s Youth Board comprises seniors from high schools in Baldwin County. These students volunteer their time with service projects and in our local schools to help their fellow students learn what it means to give back.”
We are proud of Amelia and Reece and know that they will be an asset to the Youth Board.
Pictured: Bayside Academy students Reece Wilmott and Amelia Hicks

From March 27–29, 2026, Bayside Academy sent four team members of the chess team to compete alongside some 1,500+ players from 35 states at this year’s K–12 High School Nationals Tournament of the US Chess Federation’s Scholastic Nationals Tournament in Chicago, Illinois. The event is played over three days, with three rounds on Friday, three rounds on Saturday, and a final round on Sunday. There are seven divisions of play, based on player ratings. Chess scoring is one point for a win and a half-point for a draw, so the total maximum score is seven points per player.
The Bayside chess team has a rich history of competing in the US Chess Federation's Scholastic Nationals tournaments, and winning consistently with numerous Top 10 finishes for their teams in multiple divisions of play and a Team U1200 National Championship in 2005.
The Bayside players participating in this year’s tournament were freshmen Elias Blossom and Don Chen playing in the U1200 division and sophomore Burke Ramagosa and 7 th grader Jeremy Ou playing in the U800 division.
The achievement of the year for Bayside chess was the performance of Burke Ramagosa. He won the U800 Individual National Title with a perfect record of seven wins, defeating players from Illinois, Wisconsin, New York, and Florida, along with two from Kentucky who were on the winning U800 championship team. (Only one other player in the entire tournament—the winner of the U1200 division—managed to win with a perfect score. All other winners had six wins and one draw.) With this national title, Burke gained an astounding 366 rating points and goes down in Bayside chess history as having won one of the most significant achievements in the 26 years of the program.
Additionally, we are proud to announce that every Bayside player finished with winning records. As a total team, they tallied an excellent score of 19 wins, eight losses, and one draw, gaining an impressive total of 629 rating points. In the U1200 division of 300 players, Don Chen scored four wins, two losses, and one draw and finished 55 th and Elias Blossom scored four wins to three losses and finished 85th . This was a nice follow-up to last year's Nationals where Elias won the 12th place medal in the U800 division. The Bayside chess team is coached by Paul Nager.
Pictured: Bayside Academy chess team members Elias Blossom, Jeremy Ou, Coach Paul Nager, Burke Ramagosa, and Don Chen are pictured with their team trophy and Burke’s national champion medal at the US Chess Federation’s K–12 High School Nationals Tournament in Chicago, Illinois.

Learning came to life at Renaissance School as our students explored fossils up close. Hands-on activities like this spark curiosity, encourage observation, and help students make meaningful connections through discovery. We love seeing our students so engaged as they investigate the past in such an exciting way.
#RenaissanceSchool #HandsOnLearning #Fossils #StudentDiscovery #AwakeningPotential

Students from Ordo Amoris Classical Academy recently returned from their Ordo Abroad journey, an educational tour designed to bring their studies of the Renaissance, Reformation, and great works of Western civilization to life. Walking through historic cities, cathedrals, and cultural landmarks, students encountered the people, places, and ideas they have been studying in the classroom. Rooted in the school’s commitment to classical Christian education, the trip emphasized the integration of faith and learning, encouraging students to see history not merely as past events, but as part of God’s unfolding story. Experiences like Ordo Abroad reflect the academy’s desire to cultivate students who think deeply, love truth, and engage the world with wisdom and conviction.

Mrs. Kennedy’s class recently stepped outside the classroom for a hands-on learning experience with the Audubon Society, where students explored local habitats and observed native wildlife. This field trip directly supported the school’s commitment to wonder-driven learning, allowing students to engage with God’s creation in a tangible way. At Ordo Amoris, science is not simply the study of facts, but an opportunity to recognize the beauty, order, and intentional design of the natural world. Experiences like this help foster a sense of stewardship and gratitude, reinforcing the school’s mission to cultivate both knowledge and virtue in its students.

Bayside Academy had three winners in the Baldwin County Humane Society’s 2026 Art Competition. We are pleased to announce that senior Mary Katherine Crowell won First Place in the 9 th –12 th Grade Division. Additionally, Judge’s Choice ribbons were awarded to sophomore Addie Babcock (9 th –12 th Grade Division) and fifth grader Cati Smith (4th & 5th Grade Division).
All of the winning artwork can be seen on the Baldwin Humane Society’s website at https://www.baldwinhumane.org/2025-spring-art-contest and was displayed during the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival in March. Congratulations to these artists!
Pictured: Bayside Academy students Mary Katherine Crowell ’26, Cati Smith ’33, and Addie
Babcock ’28 hold their winning artwork.

Ordo Amoris Classical Academy was honored to host its annual Christian College Fair on March 2, welcoming students and families from across the Eastern Shore and surrounding communities. Representatives from a wide range of Christian colleges gathered to speak directly with students, offering guidance on academic programs, campus life, and opportunities for scholarships. This event reflects Ordo Amoris’ commitment to helping students thoughtfully consider their future callings, equipping them to pursue higher education with both faith and purpose. By creating space for meaningful conversations between students and college representatives, the academy continues to support its mission of cultivating graduates who are prepared to lead, serve, and glorify God in every sphere of life.

Mrs. Lee’s class celebrated the Easter season with a joyful Easter egg hunt, filled with laughter, community, and delight. While the activity brought excitement to the students, it also served as a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the true significance of Easter—the resurrection of Jesus Christ. At Ordo Amoris, even the simplest moments are intentionally shaped to point students toward truth, goodness, and beauty. Celebrations like this reflect the school’s emphasis on cultivating joy and wonder in the hearts of its students, while grounding them in the enduring hope of the Gospel.

Baldwin County Public Schools proudly recognized educators who achieved National Board Certification, one of the highest distinctions in the teaching profession. This voluntary, advanced credential recognizes accomplished teaching practices and requires educators to complete a rigorous process, including extensive portfolio submissions and a comprehensive assessment.
Jeremy King, Education Technology Support Services, and Katie Nettles, Consulting Teacher, were on hand to present pins and honor these outstanding educators for their dedication to professional excellence and student success.
Juliet Faulkner, Fairhope High
Christina Henson, Foley Middle
David Huggins, Robertsdale High
Lisa Kiser, Elberta Elementary
Angela Lee, Delta Elementary
Karyn Pierce, J. Larry Newton
LaShanda Richardson, Daphne Middle
Terri Smith, Foley High
Shay Stewart, Daphne High
Lisa Tidwell, Foley Elementary
Sarah Holley Bates (Renewed), Delta Elementary
Alicia Morrison (Renewed), Foley Elementary

Baldwin County Public Schools proudly recognized this year’s Counselors of the Year for their outstanding commitment to supporting students and strengthening school communities.
Shannon Rubio, Robertsdale Elementary, was named Elementary Counselor of the Year, and Amber Eurgil, Spanish Fort High, was named Secondary Counselor of the Year.
Sherry Rainbolt, BCBE Prevention and Support Supervisor, presented the awards during the evening’s program. We congratulate these exceptional counselors and thank them for the meaningful impact they make in the lives of students across Baldwin County.

Baldwin County Public Schools proudly recognized this year’s District Teachers of the Year, selected from an outstanding group of educators representing each school across the district.
Elizabeth Von Hofe, Spanish Fort Elementary School, was named Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Emily Hudson, Spanish Fort High School, was named Secondary Teacher of the Year.
Each school in the district selects a Teacher of the Year, and from those honorees, a panel of judges chooses one elementary and one secondary educator to represent Baldwin County Public Schools. Both winners will advance for consideration in the Alabama Teacher of the Year program.

After weeks of teaching and training for the exam, over 200 Fairhope High School Marketing students got CERTIFIED in “AMA Social Media Marketing”! This deserved a round of cookies and ice cream! This certification is an industry credential that students can use in their future careers in marketing and it serves as a college and career readiness indicator!

Fairhope won two awards at the state Alabama History Day in Montevallo. Josie Hill won 3rd place in the senior division of individual exhibit. Louis Underwood, 8th grader at FMS, won 3rd place for junior division individual exhibit. Congratulations to all who participated!

The Fairhope Middle School Boys Soccer Team won the county title with a 3-0 victory! They have worked hard all season and showed incredible dedication and teamwork.
Congratulations to our boys on an unforgettable season!

Fairhope East Elementary School 5th graders participated in the Anti-Litter campaign contest and learned all about the new recycling truck and initiative in Fairhope.

Congratulations to these Toro golf students for securing 1st place at the Orange Beach Showdown Tournament!

Congratulations to our J. Larry Newton School 3rd Quarter Crown of Character recipients! We are very appreciative of the Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore, Alabama for continuing the long-standing tradition of this award!

We are so proud of our Robertsdale High School students for their outstanding performance at the South District competition—competing against nearly 100 schools!
Poultry – 1st Place
Floriculture – 1st Place
Nursery/Landscape – 1st Place
Tractor Driving – 1st Place
Prepared Public Speaking – 2nd Place
Meats Judging – 4th Place
Aquaculture – 6th Place
Your hard work, dedication, and passion truly paid off. Way to represent our school with excellence!

Queen: Addison Kucera
1st Runner-Up: Brooklynn Martinez
2nd Runner-Up: Adalyn Lyles
Senior Sweetheart: Mahaleigh Freitag
Junior Sweetheart: Railey Black
Freshman Sweetheart: Brooklyn Wingo

Congratulations to the Spanish Fort Middle School boys and girls track team for winning the Baldwin County Track Championship! They dominated in all events! We are so proud of these athletes for all their hard work!
A HUGE shout out to Coach Goodwin and Coach Whitney for leading the program to success!

Our Daphne Elementary School 2nd Grade classes had a blast on their field trip!
They went to Lott Park and visited the BCBE Virtual School to see the musical Anastasia Jr.

Congrats to our WJC Physical fitness Governors Award Winners. These students scored high fitness on muscular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance.

It was incredible to see Daphne East Elementary School shining so brightly! To celebrate World Autism Month, students and staff came together and wore blue to show our commitment to inclusion, understanding, and acceptance.

Congratulations to Daphne High School senior, Keyara Williams, for winning 1st place at the Cattlemans Association Beef Cook Off in Birmingham,AL. She placed 1st in the county and represented Baldwin County in Birmingham,AL.

Robertsdale Elementary School’s 2nd grade students had an unforgettable adventure at Alligator Alley! From up-close encounters with amazing wildlife to hands-on learning experiences, it was a day full of excitement, curiosity, and fun. We love seeing our students explore and learn beyond the classroom!

What an amazing Talent Show! We had 6 incredibly talented Tigers take the stage and truly shine. Their hard work, creativity, and courage made the night unforgettable!
**Talent Show Winners:**
1st Place – Mayme White
2nd Place – Zyi’Ounna Banks
3rd Place – Cooper Ludke
We are so proud of each of you for your outstanding performances!
**Roar 4 More Top Ticket Sellers:**
1st Place – Karma Sparks
2nd Place – Julia Musgrove
3rd Place – Liam Ludwig
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported our Tigers. Your enthusiasm and dedication make our school community so special!

Spanish Fort Elementary School’s young scientists rolled up their sleeves and got their hands a little dirty!
4th grade students collected real soil samples and became soil detectives as they observed, compared, and analyzed what makes each sample unique. From color and texture to particle size and composition, they discovered that not all soil is created equal!
Using their soil comparison charts, they recorded their findings and made thoughtful observations just like real scientists.

CONGRATULATIONS to our Spanish fort High School Realtor Lillian Travis with Ashurst & Niemeyer Toros of the Month!
Students of the Month:
9th Grade: Xavyur Sanders
10th Grade: Mary Parker Ditmore
11th Grade: Mason Hartley (not pictured)
12th Grade: Holland Burkhalter
Teacher of the Month: Nicole Milam
Staff Member of the Month: Matthew Hemby

Our DMS girls secured the second place position in the county tournament. They represented DMS well and made us extremely proud of their teamwork and commitment to excellence. Thank you to the coaches and parents who helped make this season so special!

The Daphne High School National Honor Society had their induction ceremony. Congratulations to all inductees on your dedication to academics. We look forward to your service and encourage you to foster lifelong learning, and the responsibility of leadership.

Our Belforest Elementary School 4th graders had an amazing field trip to Montgomery! They visited the Alabama State Capitol, explored Old Alabama Town, and experienced so much of our state’s history firsthand.
The day was filled with learning, curiosity, and excitement. We’re so proud of how well our students represented our school!
Thank you to everyone who helped make this trip such a success!

Leader of the Month: Habit 5 – Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood Stonebridge Elementary School is proud to celebrate our students who exemplify Habit 5! These leaders go above and beyond to listen with empathy, show kindness, and truly understand others before sharing their own thoughts. Join us in congratulating our Leader of the Month winners!