To view this and previous issues in a digital flip version, scan the QR code with your phone’s camera.
Local author Jennifer Hallman’s new book, How Mae Got Moxie, inspires kindness and confidence in children. The colorful tale of a cute hedgehog named Mae recently won an award at the 2025 Alabama Media Professionals Communications contest, and a special book launch event for families was celebrated at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Read more about the book, Jennifer’s story, and her kindness card initiative on page 14.
Cover photograph courtesy of Jennifer Hallman.
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EDITOR’S NOTE
As summer begins to wind down and the school bells ring again, our August issue is all about transitions, creativity, and community spirit. Whether your family is soaking up the last days of summer or already prepping for packed lunches and early mornings, we hope this edition offers inspiration and connection.
We’re excited to introduce you to a remarkable Ukrainian artist who now calls Birmingham home. Her story of resilience, creativity, and cultural expression adds a global layer to our local art scene—and reminds us how art can bridge continents and experiences (page 20).
Back-to-school season is in full swing, and we’re highlighting the incredible work of the Alabama Teacher of the Year (page 12), whose passion and innovation continue to shape young minds. We also visited SLIDE Cafe in Birmingham’s Five Points district, where tiny sandwiches pack a big flavor punch. Check it out on page 10. If you’re planning one last summer getaway, don’t miss our family travel feature on Brookhaven, Georgia—a charming destination just
a short drive away with plenty of family-friendly spots to explore. Read more starting on page 16.
For our youngest readers and their grown-ups, we’re spotlighting a local children’s author and artist who recently hosted a whimsical event for her new book at the Birmingham Museum of Art. It was an afternoon full of imagination, laughter, and community celebration (page 14).
At the heart of it all, this month’s stories remind us that family life is full of movement—season to season, one experience to the next. We’re grateful to share these local voices and stories with you.
Here’s to a joyful August, and a strong start to the school year!
Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com
Sean of the South
Breakfast in an American Hotel p. 8
Food
SLIDE Cafe offers small sandwiches with big flavor p. 10
Back to School
Bluff Park educator wins Teacher of the Year p. 12
Travel
One final fling before the school bell rings p. 16
Education
News from local schools p. 26
Schoolhouse
Update from the Hoover School District p. 29
Happenings
August Events Calendar p. 30
FEATURE STORIES
Raising Kind Kids
Author Jennifer Hallman’s children’s book instills values to last a lifetime p. 14
Purpose in Painting
A Ukrainian artist tells a story through her art p. 20
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Breakfast in an American Hotel
I saw the mother and daughter in the hotel breakfast area. They were eating hotel breakfast; that uniquely American fare made of commercial plastic that will turn your bowels into stone.
Mom was middle-aged. Maybe early fifties. Her daughter was maybe 18. You could tell it was her daughter because of the way she kept rolling her eyes whenever the middle-aged woman opened her mouth.
Sean Dietrich
“Aren’t you going to eat any fruit?” Mom said. Eye roll. “Mom.”
“Maybe you should go get an apple.”
“I don’t want fruit this morning.”
“They’re pretty good apples. I had one.”
“Mom.”
The mother smiled. Mom went back to her breakfast. She stabbed her plate absently.
“Did you finish setting up your dorm room last night?” Mom said, eyes still on the plate.
“Yeah. We hung colored lights.”
“What color?”
“Pink.”
“Where’d you get them?”
“Target. They have great stuff for dorms.”
Her mom smiled again.
Mother and daughter favored each other. In many ways, they were almost identical. One of them merely looked a little more tired than the other.
“Have you activated the credit card I gave you yet?” said Mom.
“No.”
“You need to do it before I leave town.”
“I will.”
“You have to do it on your phone, it’s kind of complicated, you need my help?”
Eye roll.
“Maybe you should do it now,” said Mom. “While I’m sitting here. In case you need me.”
“Mom.”
The girl went back to playing on her phone. The mother was just looking straight at the girl. There was a lot of love in Mom’s eyes. But it was being aimed at a kid who wasn’t paying attention.
“Do you need me to gas up your car before I leave town?” said Mom.
“No.”
“What about the oil? Doesn’t it need to be changed soon?”
The girl shrugged.
“You have to look at the sticker,” said Mom. “They always write it on the sticker.”
“What sticker?”
“It’s in the corner of the windshield. It tells you when you need an oil change.”
The girl kept thumbing away on her device.
Mom went back to her food. She spoke without looking up from her plateful of scrambled plastic. Her voice was small.
“I’m going to miss you, baby.”
The girl was still looking at her tiny screen.
Mom said, “The house isn’t going to be the same without you. I won’t know what to do with myself.”
The daughter just looked at her mom. They both held their stare. They reached across the table and held hands. Mom was crying now.
“Are you sure you don’t want to eat an apple? They’re good for you.”
“I love you, too, Mom.”
Small Sandwiches, Big Flavor
SLIDE Cafe serves up bite-size brunch and lunch.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
In Birmingham’s historic Five Points South, SLIDE Cafe is revolutionizing the simple slider into an art form. What started as a fresh take on comfort food has quickly become a local favorite.
The cafe emphasizes quality, fresh ingredients like the kind Chef Raquel Lenzie grew up eating straight out of her family’s garden in Mobile. A Food Network Chopped alum, Raquel also competed on Family Food Showdown with her
sister and niece, as well as on the Cooking Channel’s Snack Attack. Before opening SLIDE with her partner, Angel, Raquel started Panoptic Catering and also ran a food truck. Her RL Restaurant Group is now comprised of SLIDE Cafe, Panoptic Catering, SMOKE Bistro (located in The Pizitz Food Hall), and—coming soon— Lenzie’s.
SLIDE’s inventive menu options put a tiny spin on big flavors. From the signature Classic—seasoned beef with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and house-
Cheese grits are a great side choice for the Bacon Egg & Cheese brunch slider topped with a decadent brown sugar glaze. PHOTOGRAPHS BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
made mayochup—to bold offerings like the PB&J—beef topped with smoked bacon, peanut butter, and house-made blackberry habanero jam—every bite is a mini taste explosion. Don’t skip the crowdpleaser 12 Hour Brisket, which features slow smoked meat and a brown sugar glaze. SLIDE even offers a plant-based option, the Double Vegan, for the meatless crowd.
Brunch highlights include the Chicken & Waffle slider (fried tenders in a buttermilk corncake waffle with brown sugar-honey butter syrup) and the Sunrise, which includes Conecuh sausage, smoked bacon, and spicy jam. Omelettes, grits bowls, and platters round out the savory options, along with a variety of skillet hash dishes, and sides include Raquel’s locally famous spinach dip and creamy cheese grits. Adults can order a selection of craft cocktails and mimosa flavors such as peach and pineapple.
Kid-friendly picks make the cafe a perfect choice for families. For brunch, try the Little Chick or Mini Waffle; each comes with a beverage. A miniature chicken or burger slider off the lunch menu includes house fries and a drink.
SLIDE Cafe leaves a lasting impression with its blend of flavorpacked sliders, Southern-inspired skillets, and indulgent brunch options—perfect for anyone craving something a bit more special.
SLIDE Cafe is located at 2012 Magnolia Avenue S., Suite R3. Hours are Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit eatslidecafe.com.
The kids’ menu includes two brunch sliders—the Little Chick and the Mini Waffle—and two lunch sliders—Chicken Little and Plain Jane.
The Peach Cobbler Waffle—house-made cobbler topping on a corncake waffle—was a sweet ending to the savory brunch dishes.
Passion, Play, and Purpose
Alabama Teacher of the Year Katie Collins brings her best to the classroom.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
Bluff Park Elementary’s Katie Collins was recently named the 2025–2026 Alabama Teacher of the Year, a recognition that celebrates her two decades of dedication to education and her transformative impact on students, families, and fellow educators. Known for her creative teaching style and passion for student growth, Katie now steps into the role of statewide ambassador for public education.
A Lifelong Learner and Leader
With 20 years of experience spanning first grade to adult education, Katie has taught French, English as a Second Language (ESL), and elementary education across several schools in the Hoover City Schools system. Her career began at Thompson High School in 2005, but she found her home in elementary education after joining Bluff Park Elementary in 2017. There, she discovered her sweet spot.
An advocate for building strong relationships with her students, Katie believes connection is key. Each school year begins with a focus on
community-building in her classroom, where she learns about her students’ interests, strengths, and needs. “They have to know that I really care about them,” says Katie.
Learning in Action
One of Katie’s most celebrated teaching strategies is her use of project-based learning, where students take ownership of their learning through hands-on experiences. A prime example is her first-grade class’s annual farmers market project. Students grow and sell plants, market their products through writing and videos, and track earnings with real-world math skills. Last year’s efforts raised $4,000 to support school initiatives, and Katie has also secured more than $70,000 in grants, including funding for Bluff Park’s greenhouse, helping to turn innovative classroom ideas into tangible learning experiences. “I believe student engagement is the heartbeat in the joy of learning,” she says. “I am passionate about designing dynamic cross-curricular lessons that both engage and empower every student to have a positive impact on the world.”
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BLUFF PARK ELEMENTARY AND HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS
A Heart for Service
Beyond the classroom, Katie co-founded the Communities Family Literacy Program—a grassroots initiative that began when she and two colleagues noticed a gap in services for ESL families in Hoover. What started as a volunteer-led effort has grown into a fully funded program offering classes for both preschool children and their parents. It’s one of her proudest achievements and speaks to her belief in education as a powerful force for generational change.
Tackling Today’s Challenges
As Alabama’s Teacher of the Year, Katie will take a sabbatical to travel across the state, inspiring educators and promoting best practices. At the top of her agenda? Addressing the national mental health crisis among students. “As the 2025-2026 Alabama Teacher of the Year, I will work to raise more awareness about mental health among our youth and promote best practice solutions and independence-building classroom experiences,” she says. “It is critical that we provide children with the tools to navigate both the real and virtual worlds in
a way that fosters resilience and overall well-being.”
To back her beliefs with action, Katie promotes two unique programs: Let Grow, which encourages children to take on independent tasks at home, and Let’s Play, which emphasizes physical play and problem-solving. As she embarks on her ambassadorial journey, one message rings loud and clear: Education is not just about academics—it’s about building capable, confident kids who are ready to change the world.
“Mrs. Collins is a teacher of many, not a teacher of few,” says a statement from Bluff Park Elementary. “Her influence reaches beyond her classroom and is felt around the whole school and community of Bluff Park. Mrs. Collins is innovative in her classroom, always thinking outside the box, and has a passion for serving our students and school. She dreams big by coming up with innovative ideas on how to enhance the curriculum and challenge her students. From hydroponics to the Bluff Park Farmers Market, you will find Mrs. Collins doing whatever is necessary for the success of others!”
Kids, Kindness, and Confidence
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
Award-winning children’s book How Mae Got Moxie, by local author Jennifer Hallman, has captured hearts—and now accolades—across the state.
The colorful and heartfelt tale of a plucky little hedgehog named Mae recently won first place in the 2025 Alabama Media Professionals Communications contest in the children’s fiction category.
To celebrate, a special book launch event was recently held at the Birmingham Museum of Art, where the family fun included a reading by the author, a book signing, and a kid-friendly art experience inspired by the book’s themes of kindness and courage. Children created their own hedgehog and heart-themed art, helping to bring Mae’s message of moxie and self-expression to life through creativity and connection.
Since its February 2025 release, How Mae Got
Moxie has made a significant impact in Alabama schools, reaching more than 4,000 students across 20-plus classrooms. Teachers have used the book as a springboard for conversations about kindness, self-confidence, and being true to yourself.
Mae’s story—of learning to be brave, bold, and authentic—has resonated with young readers across the state, giving even the shyest children permission to embrace what makes them unique.
The book is a natural extension of Jennifer’s longtime mission to spread kindness through art. Through her platform, Moxy Mae, she has personally hand-painted and gifted more than 7,000 kindness cards. Her kindness card workshops, often held in schools or community events, invite children to make their own cards with encouraging messages—teaching them that small gestures can have a big impact. Most recently, at the Regions Tradition golf event, Jennifer helped attendees
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF JENNIFER HALLMAN
create more than 300 kindness cards for young patients at Children’s of Alabama.
Jennifer, a Birmingham native and former educator, created Moxy Mae to be a space where creativity meets compassion. What began as a single act of painting kindness cards during a season of personal transition has grown into a full-fledged movement— and now, a beloved children’s book. Jennifer’s background in education, art, and storytelling converge in Mae’s tale, which she hopes will leave a lasting imprint on kids everywhere.
The book was produced entirely in Birmingham, reflecting a deep commitment to local talent and collaboration. Jennifer teamed up with Birmingham illustrator Rachael Smithson to bring Mae and her world to life with vivid, whimsical imagery. Village Editorial, a female-run local publishing house focused on empowering voices, handled editing and production, while Rocky Heights Print & Binding in Homewood took care of the printing.
“The award is such an honor,” says Jennifer. “Mae’s story has resonated with so many children already, and I’m thrilled to see it recognized in this way. My hope has always been that Mae would help children see the value in being their true selves.”
How Mae Got Moxie is available online at moxymae.com and at select retailers across Alabama.
One Last Summer Escape
Experience Brookhaven, Georgia, before school starts.
BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
Summer break is trying its best to slip away, but I’m not ready to let it go just yet. Before the backto-school chaos kicks in, I’m carving out time for one last getaway. And you know what? I think you should, too.
Back in March, I took a quick trip to Brookhaven, Georgia, and it turned out to be exactly the kind of meaningful, low-stress escape I didn’t know I needed. Located just a few miles northeast of Atlanta, Brookhaven is only a couple hours from Birmingham. That makes it an ideal destination for a last-hurrah kind of trip. If time
is short—but the urge to explore is strong—pack your bags and head to Brookhaven.
Brookhaven is a blend of big-city energy and small-town charm. It’s a community of cozy neighborhoods, 90-plus locally owned restaurants, 19 parks, and more trees than you’d expect from a metro suburb. In fact, the tree canopy covers about 44 percent of the city. There’s a gentleness to the pace there that invites you to slow down, look around, and enjoy your time away.
My Brookhaven adventure started with food. After settling into my hotel, I made a beeline for the Buford Highway corridor. This renowned stretch is lined with international restaurants
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VISIT BROOKHAVEN
Carillon Hall on the campus of Oglethorpe College in Brookhaven, GA.
serving up everything from Cuban sandwiches to Korean BBQ. One night, I dipped spongy injera into spicy lentils at an Ethiopian spot; the next, I was savoring smoky jerk chicken that gave me pause between bites.
Besides the great food options, another plus is Brookhaven is pretty easy to navigate. Between the walkable neighborhoods and Georgia’s MARTA public transportation system, I rarely felt stuck in traffic or worried about parking.
If you’re wondering what children can do in Brookhaven, rest assured—there are plenty of parks to explore. From shaded playgrounds to wide-open green spaces, the city offers a variety of outdoor spots perfect for burning off energy or enjoying a family picnic. Parks like Murphey Candler Park and Blackburn Park feature walking trails, sports fields, and playground equipment designed for all ages. Whether your kids want to climb, swing, run, or just enjoy the sunshine, Brookhaven makes it easy to create fun, active memories together.
For a quieter afternoon, I visited Oglethorpe University. With its storybook architecture and serene campus, it was a lovely place to wander. Inside the university’s small but impressive museum, I caught an art exhibit that added just the right touch of culture to my itinerary.
When it came time to rest, Brookhaven delivered. The city offers a variety of accommodations, each
18 Bham Family August 2025
PHOTOGRAPH BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VISIT BROOKHAVEN
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VISIT BROOKHAVEN
with the kind of comfort and convenience that families appreciate. And if you plan it right, your visit might overlap with one of the city’s community events, like Restaurant Week in August or the Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring. I’m always drawn to destinations that let me blend in with the locals.
As I packed the car to head home, I found myself already thinking about the next visit. There’s something powerful about a trip that doesn’t require a passport, a long drive, or weeks of planning. One that leaves you feeling refreshed, connected, and just a little more ready for whatever comes next.
If you’re clinging to summer like I am, trying to hold on to the quiet before the calendar fills up again, consider Brookhaven for your lastminute escape. It’s close, vibrant, welcoming, and just what you need to reset before the school bell rings.
You still have time for one more adventure. Take it.
PHOTOGRAPH BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VISIT BROOKHAVEN
Painting Purpose WITH A
BY GEORGE ELLIOTT
The journey started with Sasha Popova, a six-year old Ukranian girl, walking each day to her teacher’s art studio. As she got older, she painted in other studios in her hometown, Izmail, which rests along the southern border of Romania. Sometime later— after Sasha and her family moved to Birmingham— she continued painting, and, during the course of a year, she prepared a portfolio for the required AP art curriculum. Her challenge was to create several pieces that told a story, something that she could connect with. The Story of Nadia in Sasha’s paintings is about the effects of the war with Russia on children of Ukraine.
“I wanted to show what was running through Nadia’s mind as each day broke anew,” Sasha says. In the beginning, she pictured a well-cared for apartment, with a metal merry-go-round that had Nadia’s backpack on it. Not far away is a field ready for planting. The good times.
After Sasha had told me Nadia’s story, I asked her what first impressions of America she had. “I discovered that people here smile more, and say “good morning” or “how are you today?” In my country, the cultural thing is not to smile, particularly at strangers. So it took some getting used to,” she says. “Another major difference was that air conditioning was everywhere, and everything, it seemed, was indoors.” She also found out that America is not an easily walkable country; you definitely need a car.
When asked what she remembers about Ukraine, Sasha says, “Well, food in a family setting is big, with sometimes 15 dishes present at a meal. When invited to someone’s house, a person is expected to bring a dish with them to contribute to the feast. My favorite dishes are borscht, a stew with beets and cabbage; vereniki, dumplings that can be savory or sweet; and plov, rice with pork and chickpeas and a bunch of spices. Our food is really good!”
With the war now upon them, Nadia’s parents take precautions for Nadia, should they be killed or separated from her. Sasha paints a child in a diaper who has had her name written on her back, the name of her hometown, her address, and other information that could help get her back to a safe place if her parents get killed or separated from her.
This painting features Nadia, a little more grown up, in the bomb shelter. She is reading her Bible, surrounded by her pink backpack and her favorite teddy bear. The backpack contains emergency items that are needed for a child in Ukraine today: a MedKit, a water bottle, headphones, a teddy bear for comfort, and a Bible.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF SASHA POPOVA
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shows Nadia and a friend grateful for the food they have. Food, however meager, keeps them alive and their religion and their faith bring them a hope for freedom and comfort backed up by the Bible.
I also asked her about her favorite traditions. “In Ukraine, we have lots of fields of wildflowers,” she says. “Ukrainian moms and grandmothers teach young girls how to make headbands out of these wildflowers. These head wreaths are then completed with lace and ribbons. The handmade flower crowns can be worn, but, most of the time, they are used to honor our soldiers who have died in the war. During a holiday called Ivana Kupala, which usually falls on the summer solstice, women and their daughters let the flower wreaths float in the river downstream to honor our soldiers.”
“I remember, too, that school was also very hard and that, even at age five, I played tennis a whole lot. My mom taught my sister, Dasha, and me English. I had to converse with my Dad in Russian and also spoke Ukrainian at school.“ Sasha, along with mom Snizhana and her dad, Alexander, are currently back in Ukraine visiting family and friends.
Sasha, except for just some “thinking” about being a chef, has always wanted to be an artist. When she was young, around five to seven years of age, she would walk to an academy of arts. From those early days, she
A Russian missile has landed by Nadia’s home, but it doesn’t explode, as this often happens due to faulty Russian equipment. A grateful Nadia is picking up her bear from the damage. During the day, the air raid sirens go off eight to twelve times, and Nadia and her friends run to shelters, only later to discover a faulty missile. So they quit going every time the siren blows. It’s a game of Russian roulette.
During the war, the economy of Ukraine has suffered. Here, Sasha’s painting shows Ukrainian money aflame.
Sasha
has continued to paint, crediting her parents for encouraging her to reach heights. “With me,” she says, “art is not just my hobby. It’s my passion.” Even at her young age, she has painted a number of wall murals, commission pieces for friends, and several items for interior designers.
What does the future hold for Sasha? After talking with her for a while, I found her full of talent and charm, self-assured, joyful, optimistic, and honest. All of these traits will do her well in the future. “I’m going to Auburn this fall to major in architecture. Why does architecture resonate with my passions?” she asks. “Well, let me tell you. There are houses and there are homes. Every day the Ukrainian people are being stripped of their warm, intrinsic homes. They are being forced to flee with their belongings and memories. They leave behind an empty, soulless house. War is a devastating, yet authentic, way of showing the harsh realms of life. Witnessing such monstrosities allowed me to see the difference between a temporary and permanent way of living.”
“I believe strongly,” Sasha continues, “that architecture has the power to heal and rebuild. My intention is to use my education to design structures that offer protection, dignity, and a sense of belonging in honor of those who have been displaced by war. I aim to create spaces that will offer stability, allowing individuals to reclaim their self identity.”
Mix Sasha’s dream with her passion for art, and you have a young, vibrant lady who will design homes for people who thought “home” was a word they would never hear again. One who will use her paintbrushes to brighten up the walls of our world. In doing so, will put the comfort of Nadia’s broken teddy back in each of our hearts again.
But time often runs out for children of war. Nadia’s apartment was bombed and the sweet, defiant, hopeful young lady who represented so many Ukrainian children, died. She, along with many children, is gone. Sasha included an important detail throughout her portfolio; a bear that represented Nadia and thousands of children in Ukraine.
Even in the midst of war, Ukrainian adults continue to work in the fields trying to support their families and country.
Hoover Names New Principal
Hoover City Schools announced that Dr. Kristi Sayers will return to the district as the new principal of Hoover High School. During her 32-year career, Dr. Sayers has served as a teacher, assistant principal, secondary curriculum specialist, and professional development supervisor. She was also principal of Oak Mountain High School for seven years. Honors include her being named District 5 Alabama High School Principal of the Year. “I’m excited to return to a district and community that mean so much to me,” says Dr. Sayers. “Hoover High School has a proud tradition, and I look forward to supporting the students, staff, and families as we work together to continue that legacy of excellence.”
Corner Middle
School’s New Principal
Hoover City Schools Names New Coordinator
Cedric McCarroll has been named the new Coordinator for the Riverchase Career Connection Center (RC3) and Career and Technical Education (CTE). He brings 24 years of experience in education, most recently serving as an assistant principal at McAdory High School. During his time there, he assisted in launching two new CTE programs and driving progress in college and career readiness. Prior to that, he served as assistant principal at Pelham High School, where his leadership contributed to an increase in industryrecognized credentials and a significant rise in the school’s College and Career Readiness (CCR) rate. In his new role, McCarroll will oversee all operations at RC3 and lead the district’s CTE efforts. He will collaborate with high school principals, district personnel, and business and industry partners to expand student opportunities in career exploration, college readiness, and work-based learning. He will also support the district in meeting state targets for career-ready graduates.
Jefferson County Schools announced that Tim Reeves will be the new principal at Corner Middle School. He brings more than 30 years of education experience. Previously, he served as a history teacher and coach at Hewitt-Trussville Junior High and High School, spent a year at Gardendale High School, and served for 10 years as assistant principal at Mortimer Jordan High School.
Educational Opportunities Director Named
Dr. Cortney Slaughter was recently named the new Director of Educational Opportunities for Jefferson County Schools. Dr. Slaughter has spent her entire educational career with Jefferson County Schools. In her new role, she will help expand and support programs that connect students to learning experiences and future careers.
Hoover PE Teachers Honored
Bumpus Middle School health and PE teacher
Jessica Harbison was recently recognized at the State Board of Education meeting for being named Health Educator of the Year by the Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance for District III. Melissa Hubauer, PE teacher at Bluff Park Elementary, was also recognized at the State Board of Education meeting as Alabama’s Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year by ASAHPERD for District III.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS FACEBOOK
Local Schools Named to Best Districts List
Niche recently released its 2025 Best School Districts in Alabama list, and eight Birmingham area institutions made the list. According to Niche bases its rankings on “rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education.” Factors include state test scores, graduation rates, college readiness, public school district ratings, quality of teachers, and more.
#1 - Homewood City Schools
#4 - Vestavia Hills City Schools
#5 - Hoover City Schools
#7 - Mountain Brook City Schools
#8 - Trussville City Schools
#9 - Alabaster City Schools
#13 - Oneonta City Schools
#14 - Pelham City Schools
Vestavia Superintendent Earns State Honor
Jefferson County Names Magnet Director
Christy Hamilton is the new Magnet School Program Director for Jefferson County Schools. She is a lifelong educator, with 31 years of experience across the state. She spent nine years as a classroom teacher, eight years as an ARI regional reading coach, and fourteen years as a school principal. For the past decade, she has served as an administrator in Jefferson County. In her new role, Christy will partner with district leaders to create high-quality learning experiences for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
Dr. Todd Freeman, Vestavia Hills City Schools Superintendent, has been named Alabama’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year by the State Superintendents of Alabama (SSA). Dr. Freeman has served as the seventh superintendent of Vestavia Hills City Schools since March 2018. During his tenure, the school district developed strategic plan goals and renewed its accreditation in 2019. Along with his leadership team, Dr. Freeman implemented a school restructuring and rezoning plan, which included the opening of three new schools: Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge, Pizitz Middle School’s new campus, and the Vestavia Hills High School Freshman Campus. Prior to coming to Vestavia, Dr. Freeman was superintendent of Sylacauga City Schools. His career spans more than 30 years and includes teaching social studies at Auburn High School, Executive Director of Operations and Administrative Services at Auburn City Schools, and principal of Auburn High School. Dr. Freeman holds degrees from Jacksonville State University, Auburn University, and Valdosta State University.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS FACEBOOK
Top Transportation Team
Hoover City Schools was one of only six school districts across North America to receive the Top Transportation Teams award by School Transportation News (STN). Sponsored by Transfinder, this award recognizes the outstanding workplace culture, commitment to student safety, and teamwork. Several HCS transportation team members attended the STN Expo in Reno, NV to speak.
Dad Brigade Returns
The Hoover City Dad Brigade returned this year. The system-wide effort to help spruce up school campuses saw more than 500 volunteers working around the city on Saturday, July 12.
Rod Stewart
August 2
The legendary performer brings his “One Last Time” farewell tour, along with Cheap Trick, to the new Coca-Cola Amphitheater for an unforgettable evening of classic rock hits. For more information, visit coca-colaamphitheater.com.
First Day of School
August 7
Many of the Birmingham area’s public schools will start on this Thursday, including Hoover City Schools, Vestavia City Schools, Homewood City Schools, Shelby County Schools, Pelham City Schools and Jefferson County Schools. For more information, visit your local school district’s website.
Babypalooza Baby Expo
August 9
Babypalooza is a free, one-day expo offering seminars, baby gear demos, and resources for new and expectant parents. Join the fun at the BJCC North Hall from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, visit babypalooza.com.
Riley Green
August 9
Alabama native Riley Green, known for his authentic storytelling and crowd-pleasing energy, is sure to deliver a memorable night for country music fans at the Coca-Cola Amphitheater. For more information, visit coca-colaamphitheater.com.
Teddy Swims
August 15
Teddy Swims, the soulful Atlanta-born singer-songwriter known for blending pop, R&B, and country, will light up Birmingham with a powerful evening of hits like “Lose Control” and “The Door.” For more information, visit coca-colaamphitheater.com.
Sidewalk Film
Festival
August 19-25
The Sidewalk Film Festival is a vibrant, annual celebration of independent cinema held in Birmingham’s historic Theatre District, showcasing more than 300 films across multiple downtown venues. The event brings together filmmakers and audiences for screenings, Q&As, panels, and community-building activities, spotlighting both local Alabama talent and international voices. For more information, visit sidewalkfest.com.
Dierks Bentley
August 22
Dierks Bentley will headline his “Broken Branches” tour in Birmingham, delivering a high-energy country showdown supported by opening acts Zach Top and The Band Loula. For more information, visit coca-colaamphitheater.com.
Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz
August 23
This free, family-friendly festival celebrates jazz, blues, and community with live music, food, and cultural activities. For more information, visit 4thavenuejazz.org.
Election Day
August 26
Designated polling places across the Birmingham area. For more information, visit sos.alabama.gov/ alabama-votes/voter/upcoming-elections.
UAB Blazers vs. Alabama State Football Game
August 28
The UAB Blazers will take on the Alabama State Hornets in the first home game of the season at Protective Stadium. For more information, visit uabsports.com.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF COCA-COLA AMPHITHEATER FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BABYPALOOZA FACEBOOK
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