Student Spotlights – August 2025

The Class of 2025 was one for the record books! Collectively, they were accepted to 60 colleges around the country. 87% were offered merit-based scholarships and over $9.8 million was received in scholarship money. 32 out of 86 received ACT scores of 30 or higher (38 of the 86 received an ACT Superscore of 30 or higher), 1 scored a perfect 36 on the ACT, and 2 are National Merit Finalists. 9 athletes are going on to play their sport of choice at the collegiate level, 1 musician is marching in a collegiate band, 20 students will participate in an Honors College, and 3 were accepted into an Early Acceptance program in the medical field. Now, go and do GREAT things! We are so proud of you!

The Little Flower campus was alive with activity over the summer. Vacation Bible School provided fun and formation with Bible Stories, lives of the saints, songs, games, prayer time, snacks, and friendship. The theme of True North — Trusting Jesus in a Wild World unfolded during the week with help from many volunteers who provided theme related decorations and activities for the 5 days of Bible School.

Satsuma High School is proud to announce the appointment of Thomas James as the new head baseball coach for the Gators.
Coach James brings a strong foundation of athletic and leadership experience to the role. A former four-year standout baseball player at the University of Mobile, James has served as an assistant coach for the past two seasons with the Gators. Now, as he steps into the lead role, Coach James is focused on continuing the proud tradition of excellence associated with Satsuma Baseball.
“I’m excited and blessed for this opportunity and look forward to building on Satsuma’s tradition of success,” said Coach James. “Continuing a culture of excellence is a top priority. I’m also excited to develop these student-athletes into great young men on and off the field.”
James is beginning his third year at Satsuma High School as a science teacher. He graduated from the University of Mobile in December 2023, with a bachelor’s degree in biology and minor in chemistry. During his time with the University of Mobile’s baseball team, James was a part of a conference championship and a regional berth in the 2023 season.
“The past two years, I have dedicated my time as the varsity pitching coach for Satsuma High School,” James said. “From the time I stepped on campus two years ago, I knew Satsuma was where I belonged. The overwhelming support from our administration during my first two years of teaching made an easy transition for me coming out of college. They made Satsuma a home for me and my family.”
“From small businesses to youth sports, I know that this community is willing to do amazing things to help Satsuma City Schools in all aspects. This ultimately made my decision to continue to be a part of this amazing school system.”
The Gators baseball program has a proud history of competitive excellence, including multiple playoff appearances, the development of college-level talent, and a strong tradition of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The program continues to be a source of pride for the Satsuma community, with student-athletes who excel both athletically and academically.
“High school sports are only a stepping stone into something greater,” James said. “My goal as Satsuma High School’s head baseball coach is to equip our young men into being great fathers, husbands, and employees. I have been extremely blessed with this opportunity and can not wait to raise the standard for not only high school sports, but for our students’ future. Go Gators!”

Heartwood Christian Academy is proud to celebrate a group of exceptional students who have been awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA), a national honor recognizing individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to community service.
Over the course of 12 months, these students collectively logged an incredible 1,897 volunteer hours, serving in a wide range of roles that uplifted their school, community, and beyond. From organizing events and mentoring peers to supporting local missions and initiatives, each hour reflected compassion, leadership, and a deep sense of civic responsibility.
Libby March led the way with the highest number of volunteer hours, setting a high standard and inspiring her peers with her dedication. Still, the race was close, and many students demonstrated impressive service records, showcasing just how committed this group is to making a meaningful impact.
The PVSA is a prestigious distinction awarded on behalf of the President of the United States, and these Heartwood students have earned it through hard work, heart, and the kind of leadership that extends far beyond the classroom.
Their service reminds us that true leadership begins with giving, and Heartwood celebrates these role models who are shaping the future through their commitment and care.

Satsuma High School is proud to announce the appointment of Melody Fillingim as the new head volleyball coach for the Gators. With a proven record of success at every level of competition and a strong commitment to student-athlete development, Coach Fillingim brings a wealth of experience and passion to Satsuma.
Fillingim’s resume spans more than a decade of volleyball leadership, including collegiate and K-12 coaching roles at the University of Mobile, Chowan University, Truett-McConnell University and Piedmont College and UMS-Wright Preparatory School. She is the owner and director of Southern Elite Volleyball Club in Saraland, Alabama, where she developed competitive travel teams and fostered local volleyball talent.
Among her notable achievements:
● Led Chowan to a 22-10 season in 2016 (overall record) and 14-2 conference record,
securing the CIAA Northern Division Championship
● Assisted Piedmont to finish 28-9 (2014) and started the season 15-1, “Best Start in
Feldman Era” recognition
● Guided UMS-Wright varsity to back-to-back regional tournament appearances
● Helped the University of Mobile capture the 2020 Conference Championship Title
● Built a successful club program from the ground up while promoting volleyball
development at every age level
Fillingim has also earned national recognition, including being named an American Volleyball Coaches Association “Thirty Under 30” recipient for high school coaches and multiple Coach of the Week honors. Her impact goes far beyond the court, serving in roles as a mentor, speaker, ministry leader and community advocate.
“Coach Fillingim brings not only extensive volleyball knowledge, but also an inspiring energy and a student-centered coaching philosophy,” said Satsuma High School Principal Dr. Jason Golden. “We are confident she will elevate our program and positively impact our student-athletes both on and off the court.”
Fillingim earned an MBA from Piedmont College and Bachelor’s in Accounting from the University of Mobile, where she also excelled as a collegiate athlete. Her deep ties to the region and her dedication to holistic athlete development make her an ideal leader for Satsuma’s volleyball program.
“I am excited to be a part of the Satsuma Volleyball program because of the community,” Fillingim said. “I have spent the last eight years helping grow the sport of volleyball in the North Mobile area, and I have gotten to know so many amazing families in the community. I love coaching volleyball because of the relationships that you get to form with your athletes and the fulfillment that comes from seeing your players succeed both individually and as a team.”
“My mission is to help each one of my players not only become better athletes, but to grow both on and off the court. I
believe that my experience coaching all ages, from the collegiate level to elementary kids, has shown me what it takes to be successful at any level. With hard work, discipline, and a positive attitude, I am confident that we will continue to carry on the successful traditions of Satsuma Volleyball.”

Congratulations to the students in Mary G. Montgomery High School’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter. They were recognized as an Outstanding Chapter at the state level and a Gold Chapter at the national level at the FBLA 2025 National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, Calif. Alabama is sixth in the nation in Gold Champion Chapters.

Congratulations to the Baker High School cheerleaders, who attended their first Masters Camp at the University of Alabama this summer. They walked away with a gold ribbon in sideline and cheer, they won the performance routine category, and nine were named All-Americans.

St. Mary’s Catholic School SEL Counselor, Mrs. Carey Arensberg, was honored with being inducted into the Big Brothers Big Sisters Alumni Hall of Fame at the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Conference in Philadelphia.

St. Mary Catholic School teachers are busy learning this summer! St. Mary’s Catholic School Middle School science teacher, Mrs. Neely, spent the week at The University of Alabama studying new science concepts for the classroom. During her time she worked with metal, polymers, glass, and so much more! She looks forward to bringing the new labs into the classroom!

Heartwood Christian Academy’s archery team, The Lions, has once again proven their precision and perseverance, qualifying for the World competition after a standout performance at the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) Nationals in Kentucky.
Competing against top teams from across the country, the Lions showcased not only skill but also focus, discipline, and sportsmanship. With arrows flying and nerves high, they held their ground and earned a spot on the global stage.
This achievement reflects the culmination of countless hours of practice, coaching, and determination. Under the guidance of HCA’s dedicated Coach Shelly Kirk and with the support of their school community, the team has grown into a force to be reckoned with, one arrow at a time.
Qualifying for the World Championship is more than a milestone, and it’s a testament to the team’s hard work and unity. The Lions now prepare to represent Heartwood among the best in the world, carrying with them the pride of their school and the momentum of their success.
Congratulations to The Lions for aiming high and hitting the mark!

Congratulations to Council’s retirees: Laronda Raines-Langham (30 years), Michelle Peterson (29 years), and Arletta McWilliams (18 years). Your dedication has left an indelible mark on our students and the entire Council Community. We are profoundly grateful for your exceptional service, care, and unwavering commitment. As you embark on this new chapter, may it be filled with love, laughter, and well-deserved relaxation. Once a Comet, always a Comet. With heartfelt appreciation and best wishes.

Little Flower Catholic School was blessed this summer with youth volunteers from Georgia and Florida who came to give their all, even in the summer heat. There was an enthusiastic group of 13 students from Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in Roswell, GA that made the raised gardens in the Habitat Yard. They provided all of the supplies and labor, and the place looks GREAT.
In addition, many man-hours were contributed by the Kiwanis Club of Vero Beach, Florida, coordinating with the Alive in You program. The 40 student volunteers and their 9 chaperones covered lots of territory on the Little Flower campus. They tackled bushes that needed trimming, play grounds that needed cleaning up, hallways that needed scraping and painting, stairways that needed painting, and much more. They spent the week in Mobile, with housing at Spring Hill College. The student volunteers said they were glad to be here because they gained more than they gave.

Stars, stripes, and sweet treats! Students in St. Dominic Summer Camp got into the 4th of July spirit by designing their own patriotic T-shirts and cooling off with a fun-filled ice cream party!

Congratulations to Council’s 2024–25 Math Team on an outstanding performance. The team earned 2nd place in ciphering, and special recognition goes to Shafin Latif, one of only two students in the entire competition to achieve a perfect score on the written test. A big thank you to Coach Bright and Coach Langham for their exceptional leadership and dedication in preparing the team.

Congratulations to Mia Lopez of Faulkner Career Technical Center, who competed in the customer service category this summer at the Skills USA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. It was a great week of competition, networking, professional development, career exploration at the Techspo, and overall celebration of SkillsUSA.

The Mary G. Montgomery Vikettes Dance Team had an amazing showing at a UDA Dance Camp in Destin. The Vikettes brought home a Superior Team Performance; Fall Out, 110% and Pin It Forward awards; five All-Americans; six Gold Ribbons; 12 Blue Ribbons; four Spirit Sticks; and a nationals bid! In addition, Klaudea Ledbetter earned a College Dance Combine Scholarship.

St. Luke’s 7th graders had an unforgettable adventure at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab! Over three days and two nights, they explored local habitats and organisms, learned about the challenges they face, and discussed the importance of watersheds and life on Mobile Bay and the Mississippi Sound. From cruising on the RV Alabama Discovery to marsh walks collecting specimens, testing water quality, and calculating the impact of sea level rise, our students were immersed in hands-on learning.

St. Luke’s students are diving into STEM+M! Our lower-campus students had a great time collaborating to build ROVs (remote-operated vehicles) to maneuver underwater during science lab! Thank you to the Dauphin Island Sea Lab for providing our underwater robotic kits. We loved using our creative engineering skills to explore the underwater world!

History came alive at St. Luke’s as our 5th graders transformed into iconic figures from the past! From researching to acting, they showcased their creativity and knowledge, freezing in time until “activated” by onlookers. This unique blend of education and entertainment is always a highlight of the year!

St. Luke’s girls soccer team made school history by being named State Runners-Up, bringing home a red map. Their performance was inspiring; their dedication and determination on the field were evident to everyone who watched. Thanks to St. Luke’s coaches and players for being incredible Wildcats, and we look forward to cheering them on next season! Go Wildcats!

Covenant Christian School continues to grow, reflecting strong enrollment and community support. This year, the school added a third kindergarten class and expanded third grade by hiring an additional classroom teacher. A new middle school mathematics teacher also joined the faculty to support academic needs. These additions strengthen the school’s commitment to small class sizes and high-quality education.
In addition to increasing staff, Covenant Christian is introducing a 4th/5th Grade Combination Class. Offering a research-supported approach that enhances learning and community.
Several educational studies show multiage classrooms can improve academic performance through flexible, ability-based instruction. Students benefit from learning at their own pace, with older students reinforcing skills as leaders and mentors, and younger students gaining confidence and exposure to advanced concepts.
The model also fosters stronger relationships, greater self-esteem, and a supportive, family-like classroom culture.
“This approach reflects our mission to nurture every child academically, spiritually, and socially,” said Felicia Boren, Covenant Christian Principal. “It encourages leadership, collaboration, and growth for all students.”
This model aligns beautifully with Covenant Christian’s mission: nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and soul—through relationships, excellence, and Christ-centered education.

The Murphy High varsity and JV cheerleaders placed third in sideline, camp dance and cheer at a UCA cheerleading camp this summer in Foley and had five members named UCA All-Americans for their performance: Malaysia Young, Brielle Turner, Kennedy Love, Marlasia Wallace and Martasia Burrell.

St. Luke’s physics classes took a dive into Archimedes’ Principle & buoyancy through a hands-on project is always as educational as it is entertaining. After exploring the theory behind why objects float or sink, the students were tasked with an exciting challenge: to build their own boats using only cardboard and packing tape.
Stepping into their boats is always a mix of excitement and apprehension, as they want to see how well their designs can resist water and stay afloat. Despite the varying degrees of success, every attempt was a learning opportunity!

We are so thankful for the positive impact the Dad’s Club has made on our school community. We look forward to another great year with these amazing dads as we plan for the 2025-26 school year. The St. Ignatius Dad’s Club serve as ushers at Mass, organize tailgates, golf tournaments, gumbo cook offs and so much in between. The biggest impact these dedicated dads have made is reinforcing their role as a leader in their personal, school and parish family. St. Ignatius dads are leading by example on how to be exemplary community and family leaders. #impalasleadtheway #thecatholicdifference

While students and teachers enjoyed a well-deserved summer break, Covenant Christian School was hard at work making several exciting campus improvements to create a more welcoming, safe, and functional environment for the upcoming school year.
One of the most noticeable upgrades is the completion of the school’s transition to hydration stations, with six traditional water fountains replaced by modern bottle-filling stations. This eco-friendly improvement encourages healthy hydration and helps reduce plastic waste across campus.
Inside the Lower School buildings, the hallways received a fresh coat of welcoming white paint, brightening the space and giving it a clean, refreshed look. The elementary boys’ restrooms also saw significant upgrades, including new partitions and paint—enhancing both appearance
and function.
Outside, the school invested in seven new outdoor tables to support learning, socializing, and lunchtime in the fresh air. In addition, safety upgrades were made to the playground equipment and swing landing areas, ensuring a secure and enjoyable environment for students to play and explore.
Looking ahead, resilient outdoor entry rugs are also planned for installation at the beginning of the school year—further improving safety and cleanliness at key campus entry points.
These improvements reflect Covenant Christian School’s ongoing commitment to providing a safe, inviting, and student-centered learning environment where excellence and care are at the heart of every detail.

This summer, Covenant Christian School proudly invested in professional development by sending two of its dedicated educators to the nationally acclaimed Get Your Teach On conference, held in Dallas, Texas. We’re diving into the latest research-based strategies to make learning even more exciting and impactful for our students!
The high-energy event brought together thousands of teachers and school leaders from across the country for several days of hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions, and inspiring keynote speakers. Designed to ignite passion for teaching and provide innovative, research-based strategies, the conference gave attendees the opportunity to collaborate, grow, and return
to their classrooms with fresh energy and practical tools.
Representing Covenant Christian were Marissa Murphy and Allie Norton, who each participated in grade-specific breakout sessions covering topics such as classroom engagement, differentiated instruction, and standards-aligned lesson planning.
Over the summer, other staff members also participated in several professional development opportunities, including the AETC Conference and the MEGA Conference held in Mobile, Alabama. In addition to these events, in-house professional development sessions were conducted to further support continuous learning and growth.
This opportunity is part of Covenant Christian’s ongoing commitment to supporting teacher development and academic excellence. By empowering educators with relevant, high-quality training, the school continues to invest in its most important resource—its people.

St. Dominic Catholic School is preparing to welcome many new students for the 2024-2025 academic year. Olivia delivered this yard sign to incoming eagle, Roma. Her smile says it all. She is ready to learn in her new school!

St. Dominic Catholic School recently completed the construction of a new awning that offers an aesthetic and practical improvement to the school. This addition provides enhanced shelter and comfort for students and staff, especially during inclement weather. The project was finished on schedule and is now fully operational. Cuyler and John Henry approve!

The Mobile Arts Council’s Amp Up Arts program has been busy in Mobile County Public Schools this summer, bringing artists into schools to guide students in art projects and boost their interest in the arts. At Chastang-Fournier K-8, artists Zak Todd and Brian Tan helped students add murals to the cafeteria (a continuation of last summer’s art project) and paint a mural in the school’s band room. At George Hall Elementary, artist Soynika Bush helped students create a portable mural for the school’s garden that can also be moved anywhere in the building.

Mrs. Martin, Mrs. Moulder, Mrs. Hancock, Ms. Montalvo, and Mrs. Heim took part in hands-on workshops and sessions focused on using technology to boost student engagement and personalize learning. “It’s a great opportunity to explore the latest trends and learn from experts,” shared Mrs. Martin.

Sumedh Patil and Owen Farmer represented Davidson High School this summer at the 2025 Alabama Boys State, held at the University of Alabama. Hosted annually, Alabama Boys State brings together rising seniors from high schools across the state for a week-long immersive experience in government, leadership, and public service. Students campaign for office, pass legislation, and learn firsthand how state government operates.

Congratulations to Talia Johnson, who serves as assistant principal for Dawes Intermediate School and Hutchens Elementary. In recognition of her dedication and leadership, she has been named the 2025 Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators Outstanding Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year for District II. She is joined in the photo by Hutchens Principal Brittney Owen (left) and Dawes Principal Mona Griffin (right).

Congratulations to a talented group of 3rd-5th grade students at E.R. Dickson Elementary School for becoming published authors in the 2025 Metro Mobile Literacy Council’s Anthology! These students were invited to contribute to the anthology after being selected by their teachers as top writers. Many of the students also participated in the 2025 Metro Mobile Literacy Council Young Authors’ Conference in May.

St. Ignatius welcomes Mrs. Margaux Bodet Golden to the second grade team with the addition of a third section. Mrs. Golden comes to St. Ignatius from Mary B. Austin where she recently won Teacher of the Year. St. Ignatius is excited to add another alumnus to their faculty. Once an Impala, always an Impala! #impalasleadtheway #thecatholicdifference

Mobile County Public Schools was well represented at the National History Day contest this summer in Washington, D.C. International Baccalaureate seniors Lexington Bush, Jayde Robinson, Potter Boutwell and Harmony Maxie represented Murphy High School, with Bush and Robinson presenting their exhibit, “The Literary Legacy of African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance,” at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
A group of students from Lott Middle School presented projects on the MOWA Choctaw Tribe, local educational pioneer Rosa A. Lott, the Boston Tea Party, and Ruby Bridges. And recent Davidson High graduates Brian Carr and Thien Ma and rising senior Sariah Hossain were awarded the Alabama Affiliate Award in the Senior Division for their project on the Capitol Crawl, a 1990 disability rights protest. Joining them from Davidson at National History Day were rising junior Zander Snyman and several incoming freshmen. While in the area, they got to meet with two of Alabama’s congressional representatives, Sen. Katie Britt and Rep. Shomari Figures.

Big congratulations to our new 8th grade class, who proudly received their black spirit shirts—an honored tradition at our school! As they step into their leadership roles, these students are ready to represent our school’s values with pride, purpose, and Cougar spirit.

Hankins Middle School brought home the title of First-Place Camp Champions in the spirit routine/middle school game day division from a UCA Cheer Camp this summer in Sandestin, Florida. Five Hankins cheerleaders were named All-Americans for their performance during the week: Aubree Mason, Khloe Storer, Hailey Perry, Markayla Traylor, and Taylor Glass.

Congratulations to the Lott Middle School cheerleaders, who placed first in dance and third overall at a summer UCA camp. Lott’s Kelsie Mitchell won the Middle School Jump-Off and the Pin It Forward Award and was named a UCA All-American for her performance at the camp.

2024 Distinguished Young Woman of America, Alicia Chu, visited with students during their Summer Literacy & Numeracy Camp. She talked to the students about how to ‘Be Your Best Self’ and shared the programs emphasis of Healthy, Ambitious, Involved, Responsible and Studious young ladies. Miss Chu then read the story “Coastal Alabama Alphabet” and even showcased her talent of opera singing. The students really enjoyed her visit!

Summer Camp is in full swing at St. Dominic. Students are having fun in Mr. Dyess’s Summer Music class.

Congratulations to the Semmes Middle School cheerleaders, who took top overall honors in the large middle-school division at a University of Alabama cheer camp this summer. Seven Semmes cheerleaders were named All-American for their performance at the camp.

Did you know the Mobile County Public Schools Class of 2025 earned $148 million in scholarships? Nearly 60 percent of the class earned at least one scholarship, an increase of nearly 5 percent over 2024. And that number included 650 students who are the first in their families to attend college, also a significant increase over 2024.