Mobile Bay Parents January 2018 by KeepSharing

The Region’s

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in Births

At USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, more families trust us to deliver their babies than any other hospital in the region. With that trust comes our commitment to health care focused on the needs of infants, children and women.

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Our highly trained team of physicians and nurses will give you and your baby the best care close to home. And if your baby needs more specialized care, you won’t have to be separated. We have the area’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our promise to you is our mission: We help people lead longer, better lives.

7/11/17 10:22 AM

January2018

Volume 7 Number 10

36 Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

Living with Children

John Rosemond discusses toddler behavior...what’s normal and what’s problematic.

Give Your Preschooler an Edge Key opportunities to seize that won’t cost a dime!

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

The Basics About Potty-Training Every child is different - especially during the formative 2-3 year old stage. This is in part what can make potty training a challenge. Just like numerous other aspects with raising children - There Is No One Right Way to do this. It would make everyone’s life easier if there was a manual like assembling a bicycle, but there is not! So I am going to do my best to give some general helpful hints to make potty-training as stress free as possible. The most important part of the pottytraining process is to remember to give positive reenforcement. I cannot stress this enough! Your child is looking to you and picking up on cues to understand what he should be doing. He does not understand how to pee in a toilet perfectly, and it will be messy and scary sometimes for a toddler, so not stressing or yelling if they miss the toilet (it will happen - just prepare yourself in advance) and encouraging them for trying will go a long way with this milestone.

The best way to encourage your child may not be the way your sister or neighbor trained their kids. You know your child better than anyone else and you know what motivates him. Use that. For one child, clapping your hands and praising her is all the encouragement she needs. For another child, a sticker chart and rewards are the gentle push forward that he will need to be successful. It may take some creative thinking, but eventually you will find some form of motivation that works. Prepare yourself as a parent for pottytraining too. On road trips, make sure you schedule frequent potty breaks. Make sure day care is potty training at the same time. Also, be able to rush them to the bathroom with short notice! Once you mentally are ready for this task, it will help your child become more relaxed and hopefully excited about the process. The last general recommendation I have is to have realistic expectations. You

always hear from that one friend whose child was potty-trained in two days. Fantastic! I am super jealous! Chances are that will not be your experience, though. It is usually a several month process, starting between 18 months and 3 years old, depending on when your child can start communicating in some way that they need to go potty. Your family will survive this training some with fewer gray hairs at the end than others! So share your child’s excitement when she sits on the potty for the first time, and hope that you will look back on the tough times during this stage and laugh about it. Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Davidson Scholars Bowl Wins County Championship

The Davidson Varsity Scholar's Bowl Team competed in the Mobile County Championship at Alabama Coastal Community College and took home the top prize! These students work hard throughout the year and we couldn't be more proud of their accomplishment.

Autauga County Schools MGM Places 2nd in Poetry Out Loud

Congratulations to Brianna Orso (sophomore) who placed 2nd in the Poetry Out Loud regional competition held at the Ben May Main Library on Friday, December 1. Brianna competed in the original poetry division of the competition with her poems “Punchline” and “A Needlelistic Mind”. Brianna’s 2nd place win advances her to the state competition in Montgomery. Good luck, Brianna.

Celebrating Grandparents at Dixon Elementary

We had a fabulous Grandparent’s Day at Dixon. Our school was filled with grandparents excited to have lunch with their student and enjoy a delicious meal of chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy! We would like to give a HUGE thank you to all our grandparents that help our students grow stronger and wiser every day. By showing interest in children’s education, grandparents can spark enthusiasm in them and lead them to a very important understanding—that learning can be enjoyable as well as rewarding and is well worth the effort required. After all, grandparents come wrapped in love and tied with heartstrings!

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Congratulations to the 2017 – 2018 E. R. Dickson Student Council!

Pictured, Back Row: Mrs. Summer Davis (Sponsor), LeCedric Craig, Cydney Garrett, Sophia Irby, Ramielle Ramsey, Dailey Bassa, Terriana Holifield, Destiny Green, Garrett Steele, and Mrs. Katryna Kinn (Principal). Middle Row: Millie Wilson, Alexis Thiry, Kennedy Washam, Annsley Webb, Allie Armbrecht, and Keli’ani Nixon. Front Row: Jacob Steele (Historian), Teran Senegal (Treasurer), Kyrian Seals (Vice President), Isabella McGill (President), and Caiya Mitchell (Secretary). Not Pictured: Caroline King (Public Relations), Carmyn Rogers, Kobi Pugh, and A’Mari Robinson.

Clark-Shaw Holds Food Drive for Families in Own School

The students at Clark-Shaw Magnet School realize that hunger and poverty are real problems even within our own school. Our students participated in a Thanksgiving Food Drive to create food baskets which were distributed to families within our school who were in need this holiday season. Each grade level was responsible for donating various items used to prepare a traditional holiday meal. Students helped created a grocery wish list and intentionally included items such as bags of sugar, flour, and dried beans to help create baskets that contained more than canned goods. Through fundraising efforts, our student council purchased holiday hams to be included with the baskets. We delivered 15 food baskets with hams to students’ families this holiday season. Thank you, Mosley’s Meat Market for helping us provide hams for our students and their families. Pictured, top row left to right: Amauri Snell, Jayden Brooks, Jamar Dozier, Kerry Jackson, Anthony Washington, Suhas Patil, Xiveria Moulds, Jake Downey, Alicia Brooks, Hunter Tillman, Fernando Lara Molina, John Pendergrass. Bottom row left to right: Andrew Emerick, Quinterrius Williams, Cain Everett, Carnell Joiner, Elijah Waller, Jacob Nelson, Kevin Chen. Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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Allentown Student Council Sponsors Thanksgiving Food Drive

The Student Council at Allentown Elementary sponsored the school’s Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive to assist families in the Semmes community. At Allentown, students are learning firsthand what the meaning of “citizenship” is by donating two non-perishable items for the food drive. During counseling classes, the counselor helps the students to understand they are doing their part in helping others have a better Thanksgiving by their donations. Allentown’s Partner in Education, Orchard Assembly of God Church, assists in the distribution of food baskets to the identified families. The Student Council collected enough food to provide twenty-five baskets to families in need. Pictured, Front Row: Gavin Frost, Olivia Shenesey, Aubreigh Nicholas, Anna Grace Coleman, Alexandria Tillman, and Adrian Cotton. Back Row: Avery Davis, Kailyn Thomas, Hannah Wells, Madison Broome, Brooke Moye, Sofia Galvan Guerrero, Delaney Gunnin, Timothy Connick, Dallas Bellard, Erica Barker.

LeFlore HS Competes Against Davidson HS in Mock Trial Competition

LeFlore High School Law Academy held its first mock trial competition against Davidson High School on Wednesday, December 6th. The competition was coordinated by the Academy Specialist, Ms. Bridget Eubanks. The case for the competition chosen was a criminal case, with LeFlore serving as the prosecution and Davidson as the defense. Mr. Karlos Finley functioned as the Mock Trial Judge. Both sides did an awesome job presenting their case to the jurors, which was comprised of students, teachers and central office personnel. Unfortunately the jurors could not reach a verdict, thus, ending with a Hung Jury.

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Autauga County Schools

Students of the Week at Little Flower Catholic School

When third grade teacher, Ms. Renee' Cherry, had a minor accident at Little Flower Catholic School, she was in awe over the kindness and compassion of her class. "My class went out of their way to not only be helpful to me, but also to show discipline and good behavior for days after the accident". Because of their group effort to be model students, the entire class was declared "Students of the Week".

Covenant Christian School Decorates Christmas Tree at Starbucks

Junior Art Students from Covenant Christian School relaxed for a moment after decorating their school’s Christmas Tree at Starbucks on the corner of Hillcrest and Grelot Roads. This year’s tree entitled, Covenant Christian’s Christmas Critters, has 189 ornaments all handmade by K5 - JH Art Students. Pictured, Back Row, left to right: Kathy Hacker, Anne Elise Sherrod, Amorette Garcia, Ella Havard. Front Row: Victoria Slade, Haylie Guillitch, Amy Ramer and Kimber Coyler.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month. PA Jan Ad.qxp_Layout 1 12/15/17 11:12 AM Page 1

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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Forty-Six St. Ignatius Students Named to Toy Bowl Court

St. Ignatius Parish was represented by 46 students for the 2017 Toy Bowl Court. These students raised over $18,000 for CYO sports. These students have participated in CYO since 1st grade in various sports. These students were presented to the Toy Bowl Court on November 18.

St. Dominic Students Study Native Americans

As part of the fourth grade Alabama History curriculum, St. Dominic Catholic School students study Native American Indians. Students had the opportunity to make a totem pole, create their own headdresses and Indian names, enjoy an Indian feast and participate in a rain dance. Here students prepare for the Indian feast and rain dance.

Faith Academy Cross Country Runners Named Optimist Club Runners of the Year

Faith Academy Cross Country team had a great season! Runners Myles Stoots and Olivia Andrews made school history. The Optimist Club of Mobile named them 1A-5A male and female runners of the year for 2017. Olivia Andrews took first place in 5A Girls for Faith Academy at state and Myles Stoots placed 7th for 5A Boys. Both athletes are pictured here with Coach Erica Sherrod.

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Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright Wright Players Win Best of Show at State Trumbauer Competition

Congratulations to the Wright Players and crew for winning "BEST IN SHOW" in the Studio Theatre category at the Walter Trumbauer State Theatre Competition with their performance of "Too Many Daughters!" Actresses selected as All Star Cast members were Katie Pappas and Madison McGilberry; Kaitlyn Read won Best Actress, Katie Morris won 1st place in the Novice Stage Management category, and collectively the group earned 5 individual event Excellent ratings and 11 individual event Superior ratings!

Learning About Community Helpers at Revelation Christian School

On November 18th, Revelation Christian School celebrated various Community Helpers. The students of RCS were so excited to have a nurse, police officer, cosmetologist, pediatrician, letter carrier, barber, dentist, and an educator to come out and share with the students what it takes to get their job done. A huge thank you goes out to all of our community helpers.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

Faith Academy Serves the Community

The Faith Club at Faith Academy had their first serve day. It was a day the students, teachers and parents set aside to serve and love on the community. Over 86 students and 15 adults participated in serving and working at Ronald McDonald House, One Meal, Ransom Ministries, Alabama Baptist Children’s Home and Milherin House. Sophomores Graci Skelton, Fisher Tims, and Brett Rickey are pictured (right) working to clean up the area where One meal feeds the homeless. Nya Davis and Sarah Rice (left) participated in serve day by painting at Ransom Ministries. Other students also participated serving at Ronald McDonald House, One Meal, Alabama Baptist Children’s Home and Milherin House.

St. Paul’s Episcopal School Honors Over 100 Veterans

On Monday, November 13, St. Paul’s Episcopal School hosted its annual Veterans Day Assembly. Students from PreK through 12th grade honored family and friend veterans and active military with patriotic songs and other presentations. Over 100 veterans and active military attended the ceremony and it was a beautiful sight to see the St. Paul’s family show their gratitude to the Veterans of the United States of America. Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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St. Paul’s Episcopal School Celebrates 70 Years

“Born last millennium, many decades have passed, Our school’s journey so far, has been world class. We will celebrate this milestone, no time to slow, Congratulations St. Paul’s on reaching the big SEVEN-O!” On Thursday, November 30 the entire student body at St. Paul’s celebrated the 70th day of school in our 70th year. There were party hats, a birthday cake, video of interviews with alumni being shown throughout the day, and the kickoff of capturing 70 Acts of Kindness! Happy Birthday St. Paul’s!

McT Dirty Dozen Celebrated by Mayor Stimpson

The members of the McGill-Toolen 2017 7A State Championship Volleyball team were honored by Mayor Stimpson at the last City Council Meeting. The team, coaches Kate Wood and Olivia Dalken, President Fr. Shields and Athletic Director Bill Griffin are pictured with the Mayor.

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Autauga County Schools St. Pius Students Participate

St. Mary Catholic Celebrates Feast of St Nicholas

Pictured Celebrating the Feast Day of St. Nicholas, these St. Mary Catholic 8th graders have been with us since kindergarten, ready to deliver treats throughout the Halls of St. Mary!

in Box of Joy Program

The St. Pius X SGA recently coordinated the collecting, packaging and shipping of Christmas Boxes for children in Third World countries. The students conducted a Fall Festival to cover the costs of shipping the packages. The boxes were shipped as part of the Box of Joy Program.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

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Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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Lighthouse Baptist Academy Holds Thanksgiving Food Drive

Throughout the month of November the students and faculty at LBA participated in their annual food drive. Each year we gather canned goods and non-perishable food items to make Thanksgiving baskets for those who live in our community and are in need. This year we partnered with the Southwest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce to make and distribute 100 baskets to needy families! The week of Thanksgiving our seniors were able to go the chamber, sort through the food, decorate boxes, and assemble Thanksgiving meals.

Corpus Christi Spelling Bee Winners

Corpus Christi Catholic School held their annual Spelling Bee on December 1. All of the participants did an excellent job! Congratulations to first place winner Marshall Robertson (pictured next to the school mascot) and to the first runner up, Mike Laurence (pictured next to Mr. Grip). Both of these young men will represent the school at the Archdiocesan Spelling Bee which will take place on February 7th. Thank you to Mr. Bob Grip for again serving as the pronouncer for the Spelling Bee.

COTTAGE HILL CHRISTIAN ACADEMYÂ

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Autauga County Schools

Griggs PTA Reflections Winners

Congratulations to Griggs PTA Reflections Winners! PTA Reflections welcomes all grades and abilities to explore and be involved in the arts. Students created original works of art in the categories of dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts. This year’s theme was “Within Reach”. The following students will represent Griggs at the County Level: Back Row: Riley Courtney, Daisy Taylor, Lallie Hays, Lilly Grace Bolton, Jason Davis. Middle Row: Izzy DeGregorio, Elouise Hays, Max Norris, Kaitlyn Sauce, Lillian Strange. Front Row: Lilly McLester, Garrett Bolton. Not Pictured: Special Artist Visual Arts for Nicholas Tarantole.

Dodge Elementary Celebrates 50th Year

Olive J. Dodge Elementary School, located in the suburban Cottage Hill area of Mobile, is celebrating 50 years in its rich history of educating students this year. The school invited former and current students and faculty members to attend a big birthday bash. Everyone was able to look at memorabilia from the past five decades, take a photo in the photo booth, eat some delicious cake and punch, and tour the school which was all decked out with student work highlighting the previous five decades. Former employees relished the opportunity to reunite with former students and co-workers. Dodge School serves as a shining example of the best that our public schools have to offer. We are proud to be part of the Mobile County Public School System.

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Give your child the advantages of Faith. n SACS Accredited / AISA Blue Ribbon School n College Preparatory and Advanced Placement Classes n Dual Enrollment Classes through the University of Alabama n Accelerated Reader Program n High School and Elementary Science and Computer Labs n Award Winning Band, Choral and Drama Programs n Competitive Sports for Boys and Girls Grades 3 – 12 n 55% of 2017 graduates received college scholarships

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Educating Students in Grades K3 - 12th

Something incredible happens when students experience Faith. They begin to grow and blossom into caring, responsible individuals. They begin to see a future filled with promise; they believe in themselves, in others and in their future.

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At Faith Academy, we do this by providing a Christian education that meets the needs of the whole student—spiritual, artistic, athletic, social, and personal—in a safe, clean, and orderly environment that encourages excellence.

We are #faithstrong!

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Diver Wins Medals at State

Mobile Christian School Spreads Christmas Joy at Mobile Regional Airport

Third graders from Mobile Christian School showed their Leopard Pride to all who passed through the Mobile Regional Airport during the holiday season. Students made leopard spotted ornaments with their finger prints and sported leopard Santa hats and Rudolf noses in portrait decorations for the annual Holiday Tree Decoration Contest. A field trip to decorate the tree and sing carols to local passengers made for an exciting day!

Cottage Hill Celebrates with Christmas Magnificent

Christmas Magnificent led by Mrs. Sanders and her 1st - 5th grade music students, high and middle school Theatre Arts class, high school Worship Training, CHCA middle school drum line, middle school Direct Connection, and a few special guests, was presented in an all-school chapel on December 7 in the worship center of Cottage Hill Baptist Church. The program was a great reminder to the Cottage Hill family that Jesus is the reason for the season. #ThisBabyIsLikeNoneOther

MGM Cross-Country Team Wins Warrior Challenge

This season, MGM’s cross-country team won the Warrior Challenge and were runners-up in the Mobile County Championship. Several runners finished the season with honors. Caleb Smith was named Mobile County Champion and Optimist Club Runner of the Week, made the Mobile All-County Cross Country Team, and qualified for state. Calvin Nicholson was named Optimist Club Runner of the Week, made Mobile All-County Cross Country Team, and qualified for state. Heather Smith was named Optimist Club Runner of the Week and qualified for state. Katelyn Harris made Mobile All-County Cross Country Team and qualified for state. In addition to these honors, Jacob Abston, Noah Ai, Destiny Ballard, and Bre Vigor also qualified for state. Congratulations to Coach Spriggs and MGM’s cross-country team on a successful season.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy freshman, Lexi Cubitt placed 2nd overall in the Alabama High School Athletic Association state diving championship, class 1A-5A division that was held at Auburn University December 1st and 2nd. Lexi placed 9th for all classifications! Congratulations and Go Warriors!

St. Luke’s Scholars Members Named Mobile County MVP

The Scholar's Bowl teams concluded their season. Both varsity and JV finished with a record of 11-4. The following students received awards: William Brandyburg— Mobile County Scholar's Bowl MVP (Varsity), St. Luke's Top Scorer (Varsity). Zach Haataja—Mobile County Scholar's Bowl MVP (Junior Varsity), St. Luke's Top Scorer (Junior Varsity).

Celebrating Veterans at St. Dominic Catholic St. Dominic Catholic School students in Grade 5 prepared an outstanding ceremony honoring our veterans. What a privilege it was to have MG Janet Cobb, USA (Retired) and Executive Director, USS Alabama Battleship Commission and Battleship Memorial Park join us. We raised a new flag American flag which was previously flown over the USS Alabama and is donated in memory of William Lawrence Ankerson, Jr., a WW II veteran and father of Terry Ankerson. Mr. Terry Ankerson currently serves on the USS ALABAMA Battleship Commission.

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The Davidson RobotEx team recently placed 4th at South's BEST (Boosting Engineering Science and Technology) Regional Robotics Competition in Auburn. The Warrior team competed against 63 teams across five states. The mission of BEST is to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through participation in a competitive robotics program that fosters knowledge, teamwork, and communication. It was a tough field, with a small point margin of 0.4 from 1st to 4th place! RobotEx also took home 2nd place in Spirit and Sportsmanship and 4th place for Robot. Another winning year for our championship robotics program!

Stuff the Bus at Phillips Prep

Phillips Pirates Stuff the Bus campaign was spearheaded by our PPS Ambassadors and NJHS. They collected 81 toys.

Cottage Hill Pioneer Day

As an introductory social studies activity the fourth grade students at Cottage Hill Christian Academy participated in Pioneer Day. CHCA high school students in Honors and AP US History II classes hosted the day in true pioneer fashion, exposing 4th grade students to how early settlers lived as they participated in a reenacted day in the life of a pioneer child. Students dressed as pioneers and participated in a variety of activities throughout the day including sewing quilts, learning how a log cabin was built, making wooden toys and Christmas ornaments, churning butter, attending a one room schoolhouse, and square dancing. Chuck Wagon Chili was served for lunch. The fun-filled Pioneer Day was made possible with the help of CHCA teachers, parents, high school AP US History students, and other CHBC staff.

Covenant Christian Students Love Science and Art

Fourth grade students from Covenant Christian School enjoyed science and art when Nancy Raia from the Eastern Shore Art Center and Angela Underwood from Weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay visited! Pictured: Vega Adcock, Caroline Garcia, Aidan Dees, Peyton Holderer, Macy Giattina and Tristan Wilkerson, with Wendy Jin in the back.

W. H. Council Teacher of the Year

Dina Hughes is W. H. Council Traditional School's 2017-2018 Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Hughes is a Kindergarten teacher and states "I am a strong believer in the magnet school program. Since I have been a parent of children, who have attended magnet schools, I am even more excited to be a part of this educational experience as a teacher. Mrs. Hughes earned her bachelors and masters degrees in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Alabama. Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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Robert E. Lee Student Wins Local Competition in Lions International Peace Post Contest

Presleigh Montalvo, a 6th grade student at Robert E. Lee Elementary, has taken the first step to becoming an internationally recognized artist by winning a local competition sponsored by the Satsuma Lions Club. The Satsuma Lions Club is sponsoring the program to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere. Approximately 100 6th grade students at Robert E. Lee Elementary participated in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peace Poster Contest.â&#x20AC;? The posters were selected by a panel of judges for their originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme. The Satsuma Lions Club will sponsor Presleigh in the state contest and that winner will advance toward the final contest for international peace poster winner.

CHCA RoboWarriors Win Regional Invitational Tournament The Cottage Hill Christian Academy RoboWarriors placed first in the SouthBEST Robotics Inaugural Regional Invitational Tournament (RIT) at Auburn University. CHCA Team #250 from the Jubilee BEST Hub in Mobile had six consistent rounds earning them top scores. They along with the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place RIT winners immediately joined the Regional BEST Championship rounds where they performed well with other teams from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

Tuesday Nights Kids Eat Free!

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Autauga County Schools

Covenant Eagle Pride Representative Nominees

During the recent Homecoming Week at Covenant Christian School, students and teachers selected several students from 6th-8th grade as Eagle Pride Representative Nominees. Nominees are chosen based on school spirit, extra-curricular participation, and demonstration of respect towards God and others. One overall Eagle Pride Representative is then selected from each middle school grade. Nominees included, left to right, Luke Dunnam (6th grade winner), Lilly Taylor, Grace Anne Taylor, Ella Grace Meaux, Jonathan Rush (7th grade winner), Tatiana Radoslovich, Sophie Lynch (8th grade winner), Reagan Baggett, and Lanae Freeland.

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Corpus Christi Students Visit Little Sisters of the Poor

The 3rd graders from Corpus Christi will be visiting the Little Sisters of the Poor during the Christmas season. The students made Christmas cards for all of the residents and will be caroling while they are there. In addition, the students collected items on the Little Sisters of the Poor’s “wish list” to donate to them. “I wanted my students to participate in a service opportunity that would spread Christmas cheer and bring joy to others.” said Mrs. Picicci, 3rd Grade Teacher.

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Twins at Little Flower Catholic School

Five sets of twins call Little Flower Catholic School home. When asked about the identical twins, even the teachers have a hard time telling them apart, but acknowledge that each child has special talents and gifts. There are two sets of twins in fourth grade, and three sets in sixth grade. Front row from left are fourth graders: Jaedyn Lang, Andre Lang, Collin Wells, Laila Wells. Back row from left are sixth graders: Gus Westbrook, Lu Westbrook, Austin Bettis, Aaron Bettis, Arianna Watson, Adrianne Watson.

Dixon Elementary Encourages Families to Spend Quality Time Together

At Dixon we have had a lot of parent and family engagement. It all started with “Muffins with Mom” where mothers were invited to the school to have a muffin with their student. We could not leave the dads out so we had “Donuts with Dad” where dads were also able to enjoy a tasty treat. Mrs. Warren, our principal talked with the parents about spending quality time with their children. Putting up the tablets, phones, and video games and having a conversation, reading a book together, or discussing your day over dinner are ways to engage in your student’s life. Quality time spent with our children is going to be the thing they cherish the most in the future.

The world could use a few more Saints. St. Paul's Episcopal School is accepting applications for the 2018-2019 school year. Please contact our Admissions Office at 251.461.2131 or admissions@stpaulsmobile.net if you would like enrollment information or to schedule a campus tour!

161 Dogwood Lane | Mobile, Alabama 36608 | 251-342-6700 | stpaulsmobile.net

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Pre-K - 2nd Grade: Front Row—Brady Moore, Kaylee Owen, Mallory Swain, Leighton Karpinski, Jacob Strawbridge, Tyler Shaifer. Middle Row—Simmie Yarborough, Carmelina Pedro-Gregorio, Ella Williamson, Blayn Auld, Briley Odom, Anderson White, Haleigh Eldridge. Back Row—Trinity Foehl, Adrian Brooks, Payton Davis, Nehemiah Johnson, Aluther Marks, Malena Simonson, Emma Paulson. 3rd – 5th Grade: Front Row—Kaitlin Clayton, Preston Andress, Kinleigh Touchstone, Madelyn Fetner, Georgia Kate Fuller, Charity Moseley, Gracie Beech. Middle Row—Douglas Dunnam, Cooper Montgomery, Noah Nelson, Brodie McNair, Kamdyn Cink, Zaria Robinson. Back Row—Leah Porter, Gage Powell, Avery Davis, Dallas Bellard.

Allentown Elementary School November GATOR Kids

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Celebrating All Saints Day at St. Ignatius Catholic School

St. Ignatius 4th grade students celebrated All Saints Day by researching and representing a Saint of their choice. Each student represented their Saint at the All Saints Day Mass on November 1. Each student also had make a presentation about their Saint to the class. Pictured are Brady Shirah, Barrett Porter and Patrick Weems.

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St. Ignatius Students Prepare for 1st Communion

St. Ignatius 2nd grade students took their first step toward 1st Communion by preparing for and performing their 1st Penance. 1st Penance is an opportunity to have a Reconciliation and prepare for 1st Communion in the spring. Pictured here are Erik and Sue Eways with their daughter Rosie Eways.

Faith Academy Pro-Life Club Raises Funds for Crisis Pregnancy Center

Faith Academy’s Pro-Life Club, Heart for Life, sponsored a color run on October 21, on Faith Academy’s cross country track. It was a fun time for students, teachers and families to come together for charity. There were over 100 participants. They raised $1300 for a crisis pregnancy center in Houston, Texas that was damaged by hurricane Harvey. Pictured is Gaby Harbin and Annie Patterson as they cross the finish line of the 2 mile run. 25

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Lighthouse Baptist Academy Door Decorating Contest

Autauga County Schools

Mobile Christian Students Serve Mobile Community

This year we started an annual LBA Christmas tradition with a door decorating contest. To spread Christmas cheer throughout the school, K3 all the way through 12th grade decorated their doors for the holiday. The students and teachers went all out to win the class party for the first place door. The winner for this year was Mrs. Patti Felt and the school band with the ginger bread house!

Secondary students with Mobile Christian School left classrooms behind for a full day to go out and “Serve Mobile.” Several 6th grade girls made fleece blankets for the children at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital, some of our boys helped “clean up Mobile,” while the rest spread out around the city serving in nursing homes, animal shelters, and in other ways. This project, along with several others throughout the year, is just one of the ways our students learn to give back to their community. “It was very exciting to hear our students share their experiences with their classmates during chapel the next day. Listening to these stories made all of us realize that even though we had touched the hearts of many people during Serve Mobile Day, it was our hearts that were truly touched and transformed.” said Principal Dale Horn.

St. Mary Mustangs Toy Bowl Pep Rally

St. Mary Catholic held their annual Toy Bowl Pep Rally in November to cheer on their athletes and court members. All students from PreK3 to 8th grade joined in the fun! St. Mary thanks D.J. Rodski for providing our fabulous music and to all parents, teachers, and students for helping make this annual Toy Bowl Pep Rally held at our McT CYO hall a great success!

Please email School News to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com.

Clark-Shaw Archery Team Ready for Great Season!

The Clark-Shaw Archery Team had a great showing in its first tournament of the season at Breitling Elementary School on December 7. Nathan Mattern, Mose Piper, Beck Piper, Andrew Templin, and Harrison Trout led the team in scoring. Great Job Eagle Archers! Front Row: Beck Piper, Demetrius Knight, Meghan Waldon, Hannah Mulvey, Mckinley Fuller, Johnny Phillips, Issac Gray, Ryan Mattern, Harrison Trout. Back Row: Ken Van Den Bosch, Harrison Collins, Mose Piper, Inoaha Cruz, Chris Taylor, Rita Tran, Lacee Parnell, Lily Welch, Andrew Templin, Matthew Mabry, Alyssa Nicholson, Ethan Mims, Jacob Mabry, Carley Mattingly, Nathan Mattern, Coach Mattern. Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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UMS-Wright Diver Wins Championship 2nd year in a Row

The boys’ and girls’ swimming and diving teams had an excellent meet at the State Swimming and Diving Competition in Auburn. The girls’ team placed 4th in the state, and swimmers on both teams swam their fastest times of the year! 8th grader, Blakeslee Elliott won the 1A-5A Diving State Championship for the second year in a row, and 7th grader, Tori Waters placed 3rd in the competition. Congratulations!

St. Mary Catholic Students and Alumni Ambassadors

St. Mary Catholic School middle school students and alumni, now at McGill-Toolen, served as ambassadors for St. Mary Catholic School's annual Parent Night in November. The students served as tour guides showing off the school where they grew up and where they learned the value of service and leadership for life! Pictured are a few of the evening's ambassadors.

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Autauga County Schools St. Pius Classes Create Science T-Shirts

The St. Pius X 8th grade science classes designed and created "element" t-shirts. Each design features an elements characteristics, physical appearance and state of matter. Pictured are students from Mr. McElroy's homeroom modeling their shirts for kindergarten.

“The Voice” Star Visits St. Dominic Catholic School

St. Dominic Catholic School was honored to welcome alumni Johnny Hayes, from “The Voice”, to campus. Mr. Hayes was presented a key to the school and then sang for the school. A big shout out and thank you to Johnny Hayes! This was so much fun!

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

Taylor-White Students too smart to get “tied” down by drugs!

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Eichold-Mertz Spelling Bee Winners

Eichold-Mertz Magnet held their school Spelling Bee on December 8. There were 20 participants from grades 3, 4 and 5 that participated. The students from the 3rd grade were: Mrs. Burden: Thomas Luker and Landon McDavid, Miss S. Mabien: Nevaeh Norwood and Kaylena Bryant, Mrs. Maye: Paisley Cox and Isabella Evans, Mrs. Niblack: Donald Barrett and Lily Carden. The students from the 4th Grade were: Mrs. Johnson: Franchesca Jones and Josiah Langham, Mrs. N. Mabien: Laurie Ella Hess and Madeline Borchert, Miss Young: Azlyn Bachmann and Derek Ricafort. The students from the 5th grade were: Miss J. Baker: Prentiss Baker and Rain Williams, Mrs. Crosby: Blake Donnelly and Amari Harris, Ms. Patrick: Shaiyan Malik and Rider Boyd. Our winner for the second year in a row was Laurie Ella Hess from Mrs. Mabien’s 4th grade class and our alternate was Azlyn Bachmann from Miss Young’s 4th grade class.

Taylor-White Field Trip to Linda’s Learning Farm!

Mrs. Williams’ 3rd grade class at Taylor-White took a field trip to Linda’s Learning Farm.

Please email School News to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com.

Phillips Prep Collects Money for School in Texas

Pirate Partners – Phillips Preparatory school partnered with a school in Texas after the hurricane. They raised over $1,200 and donated it to assist them with school supplies.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Paul’s Boys Swim Team Wins 4th Straight State Title

Congratulations to the St. Paul’s Episcopal School boys’ and girls’ swim and dive team. The girls’ swim team raced to a 5th straight top 3 finish and the boys’ swim team continued their streak of blue maps by winning their 4th consecutive state title. Here is a recap of the meet results: Girls: • Diving – Cameron Carley finished 6th in the state, setting a lifetime best score before driving to Demopolis to cheer in the round 3 football state playoff game • 200 medley relay (Mary Howard Singleton, Libby Kirby, Sydney Jane Hendryx, and Stella Bosio) placed 3rd overall earning a bronze medal • 200 freestyle relay (Kennedy Hendryx, Stella Bosio, Sydney Jane Hendryx, and Libby Kirby) placed 3rd overall earning a bronze medal • 400 freestyle relay (Kennedy Hendryx, Lillian Ringold, Sydney Jane Hendryx, and Libby Kirby) placed 3rd overall earning a bronze medal • 50 freestyle – Stella Bosio raced to 7th place overall swimming new lifetime best • 100 freestyle – 3 top 8 finalists – Kennedy Hendryx (4th), Lillian Ringold (6th), and Stella Bosio (8th) • 500 freestyle – Ryan Mackin and Ryan LeDoux set lifetime best times finishing 11th and 13th respectively • 100 backstroke – 2 top 8 finalists – Kennedy Hendryx (3rd) and Sydney Jane Hendryx (5th); while Mary Howard Singleton dropped over 3 seconds in her 9th place finish • 100 breaststroke – 2 top 8 finalists – Libby Kirby (3rd) and Bella Lord (7th) Boys: • Diving – Ross Cummings finished 4th in the state, besting his score from last year by 30 points • 200 medley relay (Jacks Mitchell, Luckett Robinson, Stephen Conrad, and Addison Smith) STATE CHAMPIONS • 200 freestyle relay (Addison Smith, Antoine Seurot, Stephen Conrad, and Noah Prevost) STATE CHAMPIONS • 400 freestyle relay (Noah Prevost, Antoine Seurot, Jacks Mitchell, and Luckett Robinson) STATE CHAMPIONS • 50 freestyle – Addison Smith (4th) dropped almost a full second to go under 23 seconds for the first time in his life • 100 freestyle – 2 top 8 finalists – Noah Prevost (4th) and Addison Smith (5th); while Senior Jack Robinson swam a best time finishing 12th • 200 freestyle – 2 top 8 finalists – Noah Prevost (4th) and Antoine Seurot (5th) both swam lifetime best • 500 freestyle – Antoine Seurot set a new personal best on his way to a 4th place finish • 100 backstroke – EVENT SWEEP! Luckett Robinson (STATE CHAMP), Jacks Mitchell (2nd), and Stephen Conrad (3rd) achieved what we believe to be the first event sweep in state swim history. Luckett’s win was the 5th consecutive 100 backstroke state title from a St. Paul’s swimmer. • 100 breaststroke – William Jameson (5th) dropped almost two seconds from his previous lifetime best • 100 butterfly – Stephen Conrad (STATE CHAMP) was our only entry into the event, but he made it count with his first individual state championship – not bad for an 8th grader! • 200 individual medley – Luckett Robinson (2nd), Jacks Mitchell (3rd), and William Jameson (5th) all swam lifetime best times.

Make it a Summer of Discovery at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

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Dickson Elementary Spelling Bee Winners

Congratulations to Zamya Triplett from Ms. Norfleet and Ms. Stacey's class in the 4th Grade. She will represent E.R. Dickson at the district level spelling bee at Davidson High School in February. Congratulations to runner up, Madison Quinnie from Ms. Stasiak and Ms. Mitchell's class in the 5th Grade. Thank you to Ms. Marcie McNeal from MCPSS Communications Department for being the Spelling Bee caller. Thank you to Ms. Sara King for sponsoring the Spelling Bee. Congratulations to all the classroom winners: McBryde's 3rd Grade Class—Keli'ani Nixon McHenry's 3rd Grade Class—Haley Langley Walker's 3rd Grade Class—Sidney Sawyer M. Williams' 3rd Grade Class—Jaleah Coleman P. Williams' 3rd Grade Class—Carmyn Rogers Norfleet's 4th Grade Class—Zamya Triplett Stacey's 4th Grade Class—William Grant Langan's 4th Grade Class—Raegan Cooper Dunbar's 4th Grade Class—Thomarius Richardson Oliver's 4th Grade Class—Kaliyah Wilson Pruna's 4th Grade Class—Justin Tanner Ray's 4th Grade Class—Deshawn Nash Stasiak's 5th Grade Class—Madison Quinnie Mitchell's 5th Grade Class—Xayvion Coleman Jiles' 5th Grade Class—Sophia Pownall Jackson's 5th Grade Class—Amiyah Harshaw Bracewell's 5th Grade Class—LeCedric Craig Fetto's 5th Grade Class—Ziyanna West

McGill-Toolen Senior Wins Cross Country State Championship

McGill-Toolen Catholic's Grace Jensen wins the 7A AHSAA Cross Country State Championship! Grace, a senior at McT, won the state championship with a time of 18:00:51. Grace has committed to run at Vanderbilt University next fall. She will defend her 800 meter title in Track and Field this spring.

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Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright 4th Graders Spread Kindness Throughout Lower School

Mrs. Schoenvogel and her Wright Way classes have been making kindness capes for our new K3 students. They have worked very hard on planning, designing, and putting together a special cape for each child. Our Head of School, Mr. Barber, was “Captain Kindness” and helped deliver the capes to the excited K3 students. Throughout the Wright Way class, the students have focused on the joy of giving and not always receiving something tangible in return. Often, it is the smile on one’s face or the expression of excitement you receive from a simple act of kindness that is the best reward!

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Mobile Christian Campaigns to Raise Money for New Elementary Facility

Mobile Christian School kicked off their Vision 2020 Campaign in October to build a new elementary facility on campus. It will be a state-of-the-art building with 18 new classrooms. The proposed cost of this addition is $2.6 million. Through advanced giving opportunities, they already have over $1.6 million committed. Construction will begin this coming spring. Upon completion, two current buildings will be repurposed into a new cafeteria, special area classrooms, and middle school building. You can find more information on the school's website at mobilechristian.org

Bright Beginnings Academy Celebrates Grandparent’s Day

One of the students’ favorite events of the year is our Grandparent’s Day celebration. BBA hosted an amazing breakfast as a thank you to all of the grandparents and “honorary” grandparents. The classes worked diligently to prepare their presentations, which were outstanding. This year’s celebration packed the entire auditorium leaving only standing room for a lot of folks. We really appreciate Amy Walsh for planning the entire event and all of the volunteers for all of your help. It was such a special day!

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St. Pius Honors First Responders

St. Pius X School honored our first responders on our school's True Blue Day. Local area police were invited to the school for lunch and activities with students. Pictured is one of Mobile's finest showing off his balloon launching skills.

St. Luke’s Robotics Team Brings Home Awards from Jubilee B.E.S.T

On December 2 and 3, St. Luke’s Robotics Team traveled to Auburn to compete in the Jubilee B.E.S.T. Robotics Championship. St. Luke’s Robotics Team took 3rd place in Webpage Design and 3rd place in Hyundai Exhibit Booth Design and Construction! Congrats Team! Go Wildcats! Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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McGill-Toolen Catholic “Ingenium” Earns National Recognition

The “Ingenium” editors, Michelle Roca and Elizabeth Baldwin, along with their advisors, Mrs. Carter and Mrs. Fontenot, attended the National High School Journalism Convention in Dallas (where there were over 4000 participants). Ingenium's "Mercy" edition placed 10th in Best of Show for all literary magazines.

W. H. Council School Awarded Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School Award

W. H. Council Traditional School was recently awarded The Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School Award. This prestigious award is a recognition program for schools of excellence. Schools are identified and selected for this award based on achievement of excellent performance in all nine major categories of the Blueprint for Excellence assessment. Congratulations!

W. H. Council Spelling Bee Winner

W. H. Council Traditional recently held their annual spelling bee where Ruth Annyarumbhatla was named the winner of the 2017 Spelling Bee. 33

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Autauga County Schools

Fun Friday at St. Dominic Catholic School

Faith Academy Cheerleaders Visit Mulherin Home Residents

To celebrate the end of the week, St. Dominic Catholic School Grade 1 students participate in Fun Friday. Each week students participate in a special craft project coordinated by parent volunteers. Here Amy Vu, Penelope Wimberly and Stella Grant have a great time making a fingerprint cross.

Mulherin Home residents had a great time dancing and singing with the Faith Academy Varsity cheerleaders. It was a time of fun and celebration of the season. The best part was all the smiles on the residents’ faces.

St. Mary Mustangs Cheer on McT Jackets!

St. Mary Catholic students from PreK3 through 8 and even a few Mom's Day Outers gave the McGill-Toolen Yellow Jackets a Huge Sendoff to the Alabama High School Football State Championship in Tuscaloosa. Cheering on the Jackets in moments such as this is one of St. Mary's favorite traditions.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

St. Mary Best Little Theatre in Town

Clark-Shaw Spelling Bee Winners

Under the direction of Tammy Nicholas and Lauree Riggin, St. Mary Catholic performed the fall production "The Best Little Theater in Town"! St. Mary thanks all the parents and teachers who helped with props, costumes, staging and more!

St. Luke’s Volleyball Team Wins State Championship

St. Luke’s Volleyball Team won 2A State Championships for 2nd year in a row! Our Girls are Back-2-Back Champs! These young ladies work their tails off every day to achieve perfection. And boy did they! We are so proud of our Lady Wildcats! Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

This year’s Clark-Shaw Magnet School Spelling Bee Champion is seventh grader Jake Downey, pictured right. Our runner-up is eighth grader Nicholas Moffett, pictured left, with Mrs. Heather Mattern, chairperson of the Language Arts department. Jake will represent Clark-Shaw at the Mobile County Spelling Bee on February 2, 2018 at Davidson High School. Congratulations to all of our awesome Clark-Shaw spellers, especially these two gentlemen. www.mobilebayparents.com

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Your Under No Obligation Q. Our son is about to graduate from law school. He took out a loan to cover the cost, but we’ve always been debt-free and have been paying on it to help him out while he finishes his studies. The balance on the loan right now is around $30,000. He has a job waiting for him after he graduates, so we’re thinking about telling him it will be his responsibility to finish paying off the loan at that point. Is that wrong? A. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with a young law school graduate earning a living and paying off his own debt. I hope he appreciates how generous you both have been, but you shouldn’t feel as if you’re obligated to continue making these payments after he finishes school and begins working. Now, if you decide to pay it off for him as a gift for successfully completing law school — and you’re in a financial position to do so without hurting yourselves or your

future — that’s fine, too. It would be another incredibly generous act. And in my mind, generosity of that magnitude should be met with gratitude and appreciation of equal measure. If you choose this route, let him know how and why you were able to give him this gift. Don’t hold it over his head or beat him up with it, but stress the importance of being wise with money, saving and investing, and staying out of debt in the future. Let him know if he’ll follow your example, he might be able to do the same kind of thing for his kids someday. That would be a wonderful thing to see, wouldn’t it?

Used car mileage Q. I know you advise most people to buy used cars. Do you have a rule of thumb for a mileage limit when it comes to buying a used vehicle?

A. No, not really. Sometimes mileage alone can be a good indicator of the quality of a used vehicle, but that’s not always the case. I would also advise doing a little research, and maybe letting a trusted mechanic have a look to determine if there are any issues that might give you trouble soon. The more inexpensive, and cheaply made a car is, the more likely it becomes that it would be worn down by higher mileage. Some vehicles start to get a little ragged at 100,000 miles, while others — some of the better makes — are just getting a feel for the road at that point. Of course, a lot depends on your budget, too. Overall, I would advise you to look for something that has a good reputation, a solid history, and as little mileage as possible. There are good, used cars out there that will last for years!

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8 WAYS

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TO GIVE YOUR PRESCHOOLER AN EDGE

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Key Opportunities to Seize Won’t Cost a Dime! by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

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If you are anxious to provide your preschool-aged child with opportunities leading to later academic success, you are in good company! Opportunities certainly exist; however, as well-meaning parents

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we may be vulnerable to thinking “inside information” or alternative fast tracks are the key. In reality, current research and expert advice on emerging literacy are far more reliable than the latest hype. The advice often won’t have a sexy ring to it, but the foundation for success--those steps that lead your child to the point she is ready to read—comes from daily experiences at home. Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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8 Opportunities to Seize Right Now In Carl Dunst’s Children’s Learning Opportunities Report (2000), he conceptualizes the opportunities for language development and early literacy in terms of incidental and intentional opportunities. Incidental opportunities might include watching leaves blow while on a walk, blowing on food when it’s too hot, or talking about body parts during bath time. Intentional activities might include story hour at the library or a trip to the zoo. Dunst says children need activity settings matched to their interests and competencies to practice existing skills and learn new abilities. Here are 8 opportunities Dunst suggests seizing:

Identify your young child’s

INTERESTS:

• What makes your child smile or laugh? • What makes your child happy and feel good? • What are your child’s favorite things? • What is enjoyable to your child? • What does your child work hard at doing?

Identify your young child’s

COMPETENCIES:

• What gets and keeps your child’s attention? • What is your child good at doing? • What “brings out the best” in your child? • What does your child like to do a lot? • What gets your child to try new things?

Everyday Repetition and Rituals.

It’s the everyday stuff! Repetition during meal time, bath time, diaper changes, and bedtime story routines primes young children for later school success. Sound lazy or too simple? It’s huge. Rosenkoetter and Barton’s Bridges to Literacy (2002) encourages parents to think of building bridges to literacy by providing experiences that include print, responsiveness, repetition, modeling and motivation, and oral language.

CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL Building the Body of Christ One Student at a Time.

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Think PRINT.

Reading time may be brief but must occur every day. Listening to stories helps kids explore new worlds, laugh across generations, and learn about amazing and ordinary things. Sharing stories can be a balm for irritable or fussy children. Rosenkoetter and Barton

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indicate “Shared reading also provides security and calms children’s restlessness.” Reading together should be relaxing and fun. It is not just about the exposure to language, it’s about creating happy reading memories which set the stage for a love of reading.

Stay RESPONSIVE.

For early literacy, you want your child to learn: language is fun, she can do it well, and she can get results from using it. When your child speaks, help her feel successful by giving her the attention and lots of positive affirmation.

Repeat Key Phrases.

Provide routine schedules that use familiar phrases (such as “let’s have some lunch” or “scrub-a-dub-dub”) and cues at key times during the day. Nap and bedtime routines should be kept the same, and reading the same book over and over helps strengthen the foundation for later academic success.

Be a consistent MODEL and MOTIVATOR.

It’s important your child sees you reading. “Such routines demonstrate that reading is important in the lives of older people and draws attention to the value of reading for coping with everyday life.” At home, point out that you are reading the newspaper or a recipe. On car rides, be intentional as you point out signs on the road or the names on store fronts. It’s also important to write and draw with your child. “When children draw pictures, their verbal comments should regularly be written on the page and read aloud.”

Use ORAL LANGUAGE.

Quantity matters so talk a lot. You want to expose your child to as many words an hour as possible. Talk to your child during work and play. Chitchat has a big payoff and translates into broader vocabularies and higher levels of reading later. In Learning to Read the World (Zero to Three, 2004) Rosenkoetter and Knapp-Philo write “From this foundation of basic learning and subsequent daily explorations with everyday people and objects, the young child builds many other understandings of self and others…young children begin to ‘read their world’ and to have wider and greater impact upon it.” As parents we can help them read their world long before they learn to read. MBP Michele Ranard is a former preschool teacher with a master’s of education degree in counseling. She has been helping students and families as a private tutor for a decade.

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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Grateful for Good Reading A child’s introduction to expressing gratitude usually comes first with our own example, and later with our first whispered ‘Say, thank you’ as we teach them to voice appreciation. When our children are treated with kindness, offered a gift or receive help, we want to teach them the ways to respond with thankfulness. But even more important than appreciative words are the profound and sincere feelings of true appreciation. The following titles take a deeper dive into our ‘thank you’ moments and bring to the surface the richer reasons for gratitude in our lives.

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Thank You, Mr. Panda

by Steve Antony (Scholastic Press) Wearing his constant expression of stoic endurance and trailed by his friend Lemur, Mr. Panda ventures out with gaily wrapped presents specifically tailored for each of his friends. When he solemnly gifts Mouse with a sweater, the response isn’t ‘thank you’ but rather, ‘It’s too big’. Lemur helpfully interjects ‘It’s the thought that counts!’ Mr. Panda’s gift of six socks for Octopus spurs an exclamation of ‘But, I have eight legs. Lemur is nearby to point out the thought that counts with each almost perfect gift Mr. Panda offers. When a last present emerges for Lemur, will Mr. Panda finally get the thanks he deserves? If you’re looking for a primer on helping children receive gifts with grace, even if it’s the wrong size, shape or color, this title is just right.

Ten Thank You Letters

by Daniel Kirk (Nancy Paulson Books / Penguin) When Rabbit drops in on his friend Pig, he finds his pal writing a ‘thank you’ letter to his Grandma. Encouraged by Pig’s thoughtfulness, Rabbit asks to borrow paper and pen as he embarks on a mission to thank those who have positively affected his life. From his favorite author to the crossing guard, Rabbit remembers many people who deserve thanks for the things they do. Pig is glad to see Rabbit’s enthusiasm for writing letters, until it exacts an unfortunate toll on his supply of stamps. It may take one last important ‘thank you’ to remind both friends about the importance of gratitude. Encouraging kids to recognize the broader gifts in their lives, this celebration of a formal ‘thank you’ is welcome reading!

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Thank You For Me

by Marion Dane Bauer, Illustrated by Kristina Stephenson (Simon & Schuster) Peeking into the diverse lives of children, ‘Thank You For Me’ is a sensory exploration of all the ways little ones experience their personal world with gratitude. Hearing daddy’s ‘Hush-sh-sh-sh’, seeing mama’s face, tapping toes and clapping hands join a list of gifts that receive special thankfulness from children. From the nose that smells the rain to the skin that fits exactly right, everyone is born with aspects and abilities that are worthy of appreciation. While children are encouraged to express their thanks for gifts and kindness that comes their way, this heartwarming title gently reminds kids of all the moments that deserve acknowledgment and thankfulness every day.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Making YouTube Kids Safer for Your Children Kids love videos—the sillier the better. And it’s a rare parent who hasn’t used them to secure a little quiet time. Today YouTube is, by far, the largest source of videos of all kinds. When they created an app for children in 2015, many parents assumed the content would be carefully curated and reliably child-friendly. Much of it is. YouTubeKids lets even young children happily swipe through a vast collection of content, much of it featuring familiar characters like Winnie the Pooh, Peppah Pig and PAW Patrol. Education clips are also plentiful, many from reputable sources like Khan’s Academy and PBS Kids. Mixed into this stew are videos created by users which vary enormously in content and quality. A small percentage include bizarre and even traumatizing images, sometimes of those same beloved characters doing lewd and violent things. How does this happen? Google uses artificial intelligence to decide whether a video is suitable for children. Although AI has come a long way, it doesn’t always spot problems that would be glaringly obvious to people. It may, for example, miss the nuance that distinguishes adult satire from the innocent content it’s meant to mock. And it’s often oblivious to trolls and clickbait—content created simply to lure clicks that generate revenue. In its defense, Google warns that children may encounter inappropriate content and asks that parents flag such material so other kids won’t see it. Of course, that’s a significant change. In the past, parents could assume children’s media was created with the wellbeing of kids in mind. On YouTubeKids, at least some of the videos are created to satisfy algorithms, stringing together content associated with key words in ways that are at best nonsensical and at worst disturbing. Google keeps changing its policies in an effort to stay Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

ahead of so-called bad actors, but often it seems the robots and their handlers are playing catch-up. Even when content is properly curated, parents need to be aware that children see a lot of commercial messages on YouTubeKids. The Red subscription may be free of paid advertising, but children still have access to entire channels created by companies like Hasbro or McDonalds. They’re also likely to encounter unboxing videos, short segments in which someone breathlessly unwraps a toy or a sweet, a process that seems designed to incite cravings in kids. Unfortunately, the parental controls for YouTubeKids are very limited. Parents can’t set their own filters for content or create playlists of acceptable videos such as those reviewed by Common Sense Media (commonsensemedia.org/ youtube-reviews). Most kids will still explore by swiping, so it’s good to know about these options: Change the password. Find the Grownups only section in the YouTubeKids app, and unlock it by using the random four digit passcode. The numbers are spelled out so pre-readers can’t use the code. For any child at the edge of literacy, find the “Set my own Passcode” button and do it. Disable search. Searching for videos increases the likelihood that children will see something unsuitable. Google allows parents to set up a profile for each child, so search can be enable or disabled depending on the child’s age and self control. Off should be the default. Tap the lock icon in the lower-right, enter the password, choose settings, create or find your child’s profile, and toggle off search. Review history. Because YouTubeKids doesn’t have filters, parents can’t necessarily keep kids from seeing something they 40

don’t want them to see. The app does make it easy to review history which at least allows a conversation, after the fact, about why a video is objectionable. Block videos you don’t want your child to see. If you see something unsuitable for your child, block the video or the entire channel. Just tap the triple-dot button for the video and then tap block. Report videos no child should see. Reporting gets the attention of human screeners who are actually counting on conscientious parents to let them know about unsuitable content that slipped by the robots. Think of this as a public service. If you see something, say something by tapping the triple-dot button and then Report. Set limits. To its credit, YouTubeKids does include a timer. Once it’s set, a colored progress bar lets your child see how much time is left in a session. When the clock runs out, a “Time’s Up” animation appears and the app locks until a parent enters the access code. Consider other options. Last but not least, consider other options. YouTubeKids may have the largest collection of videos but, when it comes to kids, quality is preferable to quantity. Companies like Disney, Nick Jr, and PBS Kids have brands to protect so they are likely to be more careful about what appears in their apps. For other possibilities, consult the list of video alternatives compiled by Common Sense Media (www.commonsensemedia.org/ lists/streaming-video-apps). Regardless of where your child watches videos, talk often about what your child is seeing and ask questions that develop critical thinking skills. Why does your child like certain characters? Are they behaving in a way that would be OK if a real person did it? Why is something funny? Did your child learn anything from the video? Is someone trying to get them to buy or do something? Having these conversations helps children become more discerning about what they watch, a skill that will be only become more valuable as they get older. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2018, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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As you begin exploring schools for your child, you begin to realize that you have dozens of options. And they are all a little different. It’s rather bewildering looking at all these web sites especially if you have never visited a private school before. They are all so different. How can you ever decide which one is best for your daughter? Start with a very basic strategy, a game plan if you will. Let’s look at what really matters when it comes to choosing a private school for your child.

Your requirements Start with your requirements. Your requirements trump everything. So have a family discussion. Be relaxed and openminded because your requirements as a parent are going to be different from your daughter’s. You are thinking the best educational experience. She’s thinking about her life and her friends and the reality that she will have a whole new situation to deal with. That’s scary for a young person. But you can make it an adventure and get her to buy into going to private school if you are patient, informative and, above all, a

listener. Dictating to your child will probably get you nowhere in a hurry. So, what’s really important? Ponder these questions and then develop some answers after having that family discussion. • Are you looking for a traditional college prep school experience or something else? • Is your religion a major determining factor? • What about sports? Arts programs? Extracurricular activities?

If college preparation is your goal, think about the kind of college your daughter is likely to attend. Note that I said “likely to attend” as the dream you may have of her attending on of the Ivies simply may not be realistic. I know that four or five years in the future seems like an eternity but try to project your thinking and expectations as far ahead as you can. Then focus on the quality of the academic curriculum at the private schools you are researching. Look at the faculty. Do they have degrees in their subjects? Masters or doctorates? Is there breadth and depth in the course offerings? Do you require strong sciences? A rich array of languages and humanities? What about the enrichment programs offered? If you are looking for a military education or a progressive approach, that will narrow the field considerably as there are far fewer military and progressive schools out there. Ditto with regard to your religion. If you have very specific requirements, that too will narrow the field of choices. Other considerations are arts and sports programs. If your child is really good at a particular sport, then inspect schools closely to see if they fit your needs. A

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discounting the idea of a private education for your child simply because you think you cannot afford it? I suggest that you ask about financial aid first. Then make your decision based on the facts which may pleasantly surprise you.

Setting and location Private schools come in two main locations: urban/suburban and in the middle of nowhere. If the location and setting matter greatly to you - and it should - look closely at this and determine which schools are most practical for you.

Philosophy You looked at the school’s philosophy when you were discussing your requirements. But educational philosophy is such a subtle thing that you need to circle back and examine each school on your short list very closely with regards to educational philosophy. After all, the school is pretty much casting the die for your child in those critical high school years. Make absolutely sure that the school’s educational philosophy meshes with your own. If you are not sure about what is being taught, read the text books and understand their point of view. Ask questions.

Visiting the school The process of choosing a school is much like buying a house. You wouldn’t buy a house sight unseen. Same thing with choosing a private school. Visit every school on your short list. Satisfy yourself firsthand that it meets your requirements.

What’s not important

strong inter-school athletic program will probably be a requirement for most sports. Plenty of performing opportunities in the music program would be a requirement on the arts side. The important thing is not to take these for granted. Inspect and verify. Now you are beginning to see how your organizational skills fit into the school search process. Now we start to get into more nebulous territory. This is where you have to trust your instincts. What do I mean? After looking at all those school web sites and filtering out schools based on your requirements, you will probably end up with several schools Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

which meet your requirements fairly well. This is where you will fine tune those choices. The way you do that is by visiting the schools. Remember: it is not enough to rely on what you are seeing online. You actually must set foot on the campuses of schools which interest you and see how they work for you and your child.

Finances If financial aid is a factor in your school choice, work that component in at this stage. The amount of financial aid a school offers could possibly eliminate some of the schools on your list. Are you 44

In education, rankings are not important. What your child learns is the only thing besides her happiness which matters. First of all, there are no private school rankings. You can safely ignore beauty contest listings of private schools which appear in the press. I don’t recall ever seeing one article which purported to rank private schools that made any sense. Titillating reading, possibly. Sensible information? No. If you want to know where one school fits in relative to another, ask your educational consultant. She will point out important facts and data to consider. But even she will not rank schools except in a casual, anecdotal way. Ranks are not important. The fit with your requirements is. Find a couple of schools which are good fits and you will have a happy child. That’s all that matters. MBP Contributed by Robert Kennedy. Please visit www.privateschoolreview.com.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

When Your Teen Just Doesn’t Care “I don’t care!” Ever heard that phrase pop out of your teen’s mouth? My guess is 99.9 percent of all teens have expressed their indifference to mom and dad. It can be maddening to watch a child shrug their shoulders or roll their eyes at something we say. I mean, how did kids get to be so apathetic today anyways? Typically, apathy is the symptom of a bad attitude. So the way we try to get past a teen’s indifference is to point out the obvious—your attitude needs to change! But how do you get an indifferent teenager to care again?

Fear-Based Apathy

The apathetic teen is not a kid without emotions. In fact, I’d say that a kid who says he “doesn’t care” may actually care a whole lot! What I’ve found is that you have to look past the attitude to see what is driving a child’s apathy towards life. Often, an indifferent teen is struggling with fear—a fear of life and the world. He hates going to school, is afraid of social events, or angry about the state of the world. This outlook is common among kids who look around at things like famine, war, disease, murder, inequality and think, Hey, this is not right! I don’t know if I really care about this world after all. It’s a pretty crummy place. So they develop an attitude of apathy and try to block everything out. Even though they give their best effort to appear shielded, apathetic teens are still struggling to express anxiety, worry and fear over situations in their life. For the teen who is trying to overcome their anxiety through a cavalier attitude, you have to help them put life into perspective. Talk about the things worth celebrating. Show your apathetic son or daughter that life has more joy and happiness than what he or she can see at the moment. And let your teen know you believe in them. Many teens fear they don’t have what it takes for learning, for working, or succeeding in life. They compare themselves to others and refuse to try to do something they don’t think they can do—or do well. So here’s where you can guide them into places and projects where they can experience suc-

cess and satisfaction—a part-time job, a new sport, or a fun project that you can even do alongside them. This will help them overcome the fear of failure that many apathetic teens face. It is easy to feign apathy rather than admit fear. That’s why it’s important to create a safe relationship with them. Let them know that you, too, have fears that you must face. Being vulnerable with them and allowing them to process their real feelings will go a long way in releasing them from their fears. And it will equip them to face future fears as they arise.

Grief-Based Apathy

As teenagers begin to face the realization that the world isn’t the happy and carefree place they once thought it was, they might experience a deep sense of sadness and grief. Coming face-to-face with death and tragedy causes a loss of innocence. Sometimes a traumatic experience in a teen’s life can be a secret source of grief. As parents, we don’t know everything that is happening in our child’s life. My parents didn’t know everything I did as a teenager. And I’m guessing it was the same for you. So you can be sure that you don’t know everything your teenager is going through either. If grief is fueling their apathy, then we need to help our kids learn to process and deal with that emotion in a healthy way. Be attentive to your teen. Notice the little and big things that indicate what he or she is really experiencing. Have patience and encourage him or her to not only express his sadness, but his anger, and frustration, too. Show them that there are healthy ways to express all the emotions they feel. A friend who worked with me at Kanakuk Kamp in the ‘80s made a statement that has stayed with me through the years. He said, “The moods of a lifetime are often set in the all-but-forgotten events of childhood.” If your son holds on to his grief instead of processing it and moving past it, that grief may become the “mood of a lifetime.” And being apathetic may be your daughter’s way of trying to navigate these difficult feelings, when 45

she really needs your help to process them in a safe and respectable way.

Anger-Based Apathy

There is nothing wrong with being angry. When we see acts of cruelty, scenes of chaos, or loss of life, it’s natural to feel anger and rage over a fallen world where bad things happen to good people. But in the same way that adults need to channel their anger into appropriate outlets, teen anger must be dealt with or it will grow into an “I-just-don’t-careanymore” attitude—or even something more destructive. So direct your teens to acceptable ways of expressing anger. Show them appropriate ways to let off steam. You can write a letter, go for a run, listen to music, paint a picture, build something, or even talk it out. Encourage them to use those angry feelings to do something, rather then let them boil inside. I’ve found the best way to break an apathetic attitude is to get your teen to serve others. Apathy is really a preoccupation with yourself. So when you take a kid on a mission trip, serve a soup kitchen, visit a nursing home, or make dinner for your sick neighbors, you are replacing a teenager’s self-obsession with a focus on helping others. When our kids say, “I don’t care,” the easy response is to say, “You’re being apathetic!” But pointing out a kid’s bad attitude doesn’t change it. Breaking your son or daughter out of their indifference requires getting to the root of the problem, and addressing those feelings. It also may require changing your own attitude. Do you complain about problems at work, church, or at home, but never take steps to get involved in making change happen? Would you rather talk than take action to do something? Apathy can be infectious. So if you’re dealing with a teen who doesn’t care, make sure you do! And make sure it shows in your actions. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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EXCELLENCE • RESPONSIBILIT Y INTEGRITY • LEADERSHIP RESPECT • COMMUNITY

living our core values

Es sc C K3 st to to

In wi ab

FUTURE ADMIRALS OPEN HOUSE GRADES PK-12 FEBRUARY 6 AT 9 AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2018-2019 SCHOOL YEAR To learn more about Bayside Academy, please visit www.baysideacademy.org or call 251.338.6446.

303 Dryer Avenue | Daphne, AL 36526 | 251.338.6300 | www.baysideacademy.org 46

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303 Dryercoeducational, Ave. | Daphne, 36526day | school 251.338.6300 | www.baysideacademy.org Bayside Academy is an independent, college Ala. preparatory offering a superior educational opportunity to students in grades PK-12. Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

CCS

CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL Building the Body of Christ One Student at a Time.

Established in 1958 by Corpus Christi Parish, our school is committed to building the Body of Christ. Corpus Christi Catholic School serves students in K3 through eighth grade. Dedicated faculty and staff nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, to achieve academic success, and to serve others as disciples of Jesus.

FAITH – We are committed to providing an education based on the teachings of Jesus Christ in an environment that supports faith development and academic success. The administration, faculty, and parents of Corpus Christi School provide the foundation for students to live their Catholic faith. They nourish a Catholic identity through student participation in school, church, and community service.

Interested parents are invited to tour our school and meet with students, teachers, and current parents while learning about our many excellent academic programs for all students.

ACADEMICS – A strong, challenging curriculum exceeds common core standards and incorporates the innovative use of technology in all subject areas. There are interactive boards in all classrooms and teachers use iPads for a variety of activities to supplement the curriculum. A state-of-the-art science lab allows junior high students to explore the world of science. The Resources Program fosters student success. Students are recognized for their academic achievement through selection to the National Junior Honor Society and recognition as a Duke Scholar. Students named as Duke Scholars have very high levels of achievement on standardized tests.

Join us at our Open House. Sunday, January 21, 2018 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Tours of our school are available by request. Contact the school office for more information.

STUDENT LIFE – Corpus Christi students participate

in a selection of activities and special programs which allows them to pursue their interests. They may participate on the Scholar’s Bowl Team, our student produced weekly news program (Corpus Christi News–CCN), Computer Club, Drama Club, Scouting, Elementary Band (5-8), Yearbook, and CYO Sports.

251.342.5474 school@corpuschristiparish.com school.corpuschristiparish.com

6300 McKenna Drive • Mobile, Alabama 36608 47

K-12. CCS Advetorial Ad.indd 1

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COTTAGE HILL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

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ESTABLISHED 1983

Covenant Christian School

35 years of Christian Education

Our trained and experienced faculty is well-equipped to work with your child. They demonstrate genuine love for each student and nurture each one to perform to his or her full potential.

We are committed to introducing young minds and hearts to a successful first school experience. WHY COVENANT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

 Qualified Christian Faculty  Relational Learning Environment Daily Bible Lessons  Accelerated Reader Program  Strong Phonics, Language, and Reading Instruction  Math & Algebra  Supportive Parental Involvement  Interactive technology in each classroom & computer lab access  Limited Class Sizes  Quality School Library  Physical Education Classes Interscholastic Sports Program  AHSAA member  Field Trips  Music, Choral, Band, & More Spanish & French Classes  Award-winning Art Program  After-School Care Available

The curriculum is chosen to provide solid foundations in phonics, reading comprehension, and math. Writing, history, language arts, science, and spelling provide a well-balanced core curriculum. Our teachers lead our students to see how the lesson at hand fits into the larger picture of God and His purpose for their lives.

Preparing Students - Looking Forward Biblical standards and values form the core of our working principles at CCS. Foundations built on eternal truth undergird how we teach, how we treat others, how we discipline, and how we see the world. The stability of an eternal foundation and clear standards enable us to evaluate the best available methods and means in equipping our students. The shared values of the Christian home, the Christian school, and the Christian Church form a foundation for a young student to follow Christ throughout his/her life.

We are training our students to make the connection between the small pieces of life and the larger picture of God’s purpose and design.

COVENANT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 7150 Hitt Road Mobile, AL 36695 251-633-8055

For more information, visit www.covenantschool.com

The mission of Covenant Christian School is to graduate students who are prepared to understand their world, to communicate with their world, and to influence their world for Christ through servant leadership. Covenant Christian School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs. 49

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Faith Academy

Quality Christian Education for 3K - 12th Grade

It is the mission of Faith Academy to offer a quality Christian education in a safe, clean and orderly environment, while assisting and encouraging our students to realize who they are in Christ.

Spiritual

n Interdenominational Christian education n Weekly chapel and daily Bible classes n Mission opportunities through clubs

Academic

n Member of AHSAA n SACS accredited/AISA Blue Ribbon School n College preparatory classes n Advancement placement classes n General education classes n Information technology curriculum n Before and after school program n Daily cafeteria program n Dual enrollment classes through University of Alabama n Average ACT of 27 for college prep seniors n 55% of 2017 Faith graduates received college scholarships n Elementary computer classes, free help classes

Facilities

n Fenced and covered playgrounds n 35 acre athletic complex n 6,000 square foot state-of-the-art weight training facility n Gated and secure 127 acre campus in west Mobile n Separate elementary and kindergarten playgrounds

Extracurricular

n Fine Arts and Drama Program n Award winning band and choir program n RamCorp (brass and percussion ensemble) that incorporates a dance team and color guard n Robotics program, 4-H Club n Student Government Association n BETA, NHS, Spanish Club n Competitive sports for grades 3 - 12 n Sports programs: Football, baseball, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, softball, golf, swimming, track/cross country, archery and volleyball

faithacademy.us | 8650 Tanner Williams50Road, Mobile, AL 36608 | 251.633.7267 www.mobilebayparents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

FA2017 Open House ad Full Page.indd 1

We accept Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Funds.

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Advertorial

McGill-Toolen Catholic

Strengthening the spirit. Inspiring the mind. Strengthening the Spirit…

Student Life • Ingenium Student Literary Magazine Compassion was awarded the All Alabama Overall Literary Magazine, demonstrating excellence in all areas at the Alabama Scholastic Press Association State Convention. • The band earned all Superior ratings and all A’s in every category at the State Competition. This is the highest award in the state of Alabama. This is the sixth year in a row the band has won this award at State. • 3 Azalea Trail Maids • 5th year for 1st Place Private School Physics Team • 85% of students participate in more than 50 extracurricular activities

Emphasis on spiritual growth and moral responsibility are factors that contribute to the uniqueness of McGill-Toolen. We are proud to say we have the best students, the best faculty and the best academic programs in a strong Catholic environment. We are the only high school in Mobile that features this incredible combination.

Focus on Faith • Theology is required core curriculum for all students • Annual Retreats offered for all students • Hundreds of students traveled to the March for Life in Washington • Monthly School Mass • 2 Full-time campus ministers • 7 Archdiocesan Chaplains members of McT Chaplain’s team • Brand new 120 seat chapel on campus • Students raise approximately $20,000 annually for our Lenten Campaign • McT Ministry Program offers weekly prayer groups and service opportunities • 21 students from the class of 2017 attending Catholic Colleges or Universities, 2 discerning religious life

Athletics • 9 out of 16 sports teams finished top 4 in the 7A (highest classification) of the AHSAA • 26 student athletes from the class of 2017 received athletic scholarships • 7A AHSAA State Champion Women’s Soccer Team • More than 70 student athletes currently competing at the collegiate level • Athletics offered at Middle School, Freshman, JV and Varsity levels

Inspiring the Mind Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Council of Accreditation and School Improvement (CASI), McGill-Toolen Catholic boasts an academically challenging and comprehensive curriculum.

Academics • 5 National Merit Semi Finalists, 5 Commended Scholars, 1 Hispanic Scholar • 2 perfect scores on the ACT, 43 students scored a 30 or higher • Average ACT 24.1 — 5 points higher than state average • Class of 2017 offered $16.8 million in scholarships • 77 AP Scholars 110 Members of the National Honor Society • 243 Students made the President’s List (earning a 4.0 or higher) • 61% of our faculty have earned a Master’s degree or higher Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

McGill-Toolen.org Established 1896

(251) 445.2900 1501 Old Shell Rd. • Mobile, AL 36604 52

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www

MOBILE CHRISTIAN School 5900 Cottage Hill Rd.

Prepared for college… Prepared for Life.  

www.mobilechristian.org (251) 661-1613

College preparatory education Only private school in Mobile that offers accredited university courses on campus in a normal class setting

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Average honors graduate has over a semester of courses already completed

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2/3 of last year’s graduates received scholarships totaling over $5.3 million with an average of over $110,000 for each student

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Every 4-12 student uses an iPad for learning with all digital textbooks

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Before and after school care available

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Christ-centered community

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Motivational daily chapel & Bible classes

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A school where community service is modeled, measured and encouraged

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Fun, friendly, family atmosphere for all grades

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95% of all students are involved with extracurricular activities; everyone finds a place

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Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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When Eagles Fly, Success Soars!

Middle School: We provide an environment that is conducive to learning and to living a faith-filled Catholic life. Students receive a well-rounded education geared specifically to the needs of adolescents. The middle school builds on the academic knowledge acquired in the elementary grades, with a particular focus on preparing students for high school.

On a foundation of faith, family, and fellowship, your child’s future takes wing at St. Dominic Catholic School. After all, we are called the Eagles. Through compassion born of God’s grace, we strive to uplift all those in our community, inspiring students to achieve new heights of academic success. With involved parents as our stewards and partners, we fly even higher offering the following:

Preschool: Open to children ages 2 to 4, we provide a developmentally-appropriate education within a Catholic environment. We offer a child-centered, individualized program where each child is helped to reach their full potential.

Extra-Curricular Programs: Life outside the classroom includes student participation in athletics and community services with emphasis on fair play and the pursuit of excellence. The Booster Club, under direction of the Parish, coordinates soccer, volleyball, basketball, football, cheerleading and cross country. Saint Dominic is a member of the Alabama High School Athletic Association. Students in grades 7 and 8 may qualify to play certain sports at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School.

Kindergarten – Grade 2: We provide a warm, caring Catholic environment that lays the foundation for academic knowledge acquired in elementary and middle school. Grade 3 – 5: Our focus is to build upon the skills and knowledge acquired in a student’s early years of learning. Independent thinking and problem-solving skills are developed.

Come and experience the spirit of achievement and belonging. Call today at 661-5226 to schedule and tour.

PK2–PK4 • Elementary grades K–5 • Middle school grades 6–8 Excellent student-teacher ratio • Sports • Extra-curricular opportunities 4160 Burma Road • Mobile, Alabama 36693 (251) 661.5226 • StDominicMobile.org/school

Alabama Educational Scholarship Program participant 55

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Pride. Tradition. Excellence. St. Mary Catholic School, founded in 1867, is the oldest existing Catholic elementary school in Alabama. As the largest educational ministry of St. Mary Parish, the school continues today, as a partner with parents, focusing on the development of the whole child. The mission of St. Mary is to provide an environment where Jesus’ message of love meets the spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional needs of our children. This mission is manifested through MARY – Moral, Accomplished, Responsible, Yearning to learn. St Mary Catholic School strives to be attuned to the needs of both students and parents. To this end, St. Mary offers before- and after-school care, has Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 programs and provides a full-service cafeteria. St. Mary Catholic School makes no discrimination on the basis of religion, race or national origin. St. Mary considers all non-parish and non-Catholic students on a space-available basis. Screening interviews may be administered to new students.

ACADEMICS - St. Mary Catholic School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). St. Mary offers an academic program that produces students who are ready and eager to move to the next level of academic achievement. In addition to the core curriculum of language arts, mathematics, social studies and science, St. Mary is pleased to offer the following: • Marian Honors Program • Religion • Library • Resource Program • Performance Assessments • STEAM Plant

• McGill-Toolen Prep Band • Art Classes • Middle School Drama • Science Lab • Preschool Phonics Program • Performing Arts, Pre-K3 -5 • Computer Lab / Instruction • Full-time Counselor • Spanish • Low Student-to-Teacher Ratio • Guided / Levelized Reading Curriculum • Outdoor Classroom • Middle School Debate Team

PARENT OPPORTUNITIES - St. Mary Catholic School is committed to raising the leaders of tomorrow. A partnership between parents and St. Mary creates a home and school environment positively impacting the lives of children. In addition to the every day parent / teacher partnership, St. Mary also has other opportunities for parents and members of the greater community to make a difference: Parent / Teacher Organization (PTO) • Sacramental Programs • School Advisory Committee • Room Parents • Business Partnership Program • Teacher / Library Assistants • Casino Night • Special Events / Programs • Parent Information Nights • SCRIP Program • Annual Fund Drive which provides for facility, academic and campus improvements • Steve Thompson Memorial Golf Tournament

YOUNG MIND AND CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT • National Junior Honor Society • Bay Area Scholastic Challenge League • Something Beautiful for God Service Program • Weekly Mass • Buy Into Mobile Recycling Project • Altar Server Program • Sacraments • Liturgical Services • Scouts and C.Y.O. Sports Programs • Yearbook • Alabama High School Athletic Association, grades 7 and 8 • Children’s Choir • Pro-Life Club • Computer Club

OPEN REGISTRATION BEGINS JANUARY 16, 2018 We invite you to Explore the Opportunities Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

SMP-3245 AD ParentMag 2017.indd 1

for students in Pre-K-3 through 8th grade. For more info, or to schedule a tour, call (251) 433-9904, or visit 58 www.StMaryMobile.org. 107 N. Lafayette St., Mobile, AL 36604 www.mobilebayparents.com

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UMS-Wright Preparatory School

At UMS-Wright, we build the foundation for excellence through our

devotion to advancing our students in mind, body, and spirit. We strive to provide each student with a quality education while instilling character, respect, and honor. UMS-Wright teachers, administrators, and staff are dedicated to equipping our students with the skills necessary to be successful in life and beneficial to the community. We encourage students to pursue other personal interests through a myriad of activities offered in our Arts, Athletics, and Student Life Departments. We firmly believe that the lessons learned and the qualities developed through participation in such activities help students internalize positive characteristics such as self-discipline, respect for others, and selflessness. We ensure that each student has the opportunity to explore and fulfill all interests and that we have the appropriate facilities, expertise, and support for students to do so.

ACADEMICS

• Innovative STEM across all grade levels • Academic Support Program • Fully integrated Apple device program for all students • Vertically aligned curriculum in grades K3-12 • 62 AP Scholar Awards and 6 National AP Scholars • 6 National Merit Semi-Finalists • 15 Cum Laude Society Members - 1 of only 3 chapters in Alabama • After school enrichment opportunities for Lower School students – Science, Language, Robotics, Ballet, just to name a few

ARTS • • • • • • •

ATHLETICS • • • • •

14 Middle School and Varsity Sports 10 Athletes in the Class of 2017 will play at the collegiate level 7 Lower School Intramurals Athletic summer camp opportunities for all ages Bulldog Athletic Association for grades 3-6 - Football, Basketball, Cheerleading and Softball

State of the art facilities including auditorium, art gallery, and amphitheatre SERVICE 32 Fine and Performing Arts classes in Middle and Upper School 4 Middle and Upper School Plays and 2 Chorus and Band Concerts • 16,107 Total Service Hours for Middle and Upper Private piano and voice lessons offered on campus School students in the 2016-17 school year Students attend weekly art and music classes throughout Lower School • Throughout the 2017-18 school year, each Lower K3-4 grade levels perform one main stage musical production every school year School student will participate in a division-wide effort The Allegro Singers, comprised of 3rd-4th graders, perform two concerts on known as “Mission Possible” as a part of our Wright campus and at various community events Way Counseling class. The students perform secret acts of kindness for their peers.

Come visit us to learn more! Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

65 Mobile Street

251-479-6551 60

ums-wright.org

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While your child is in the Spring of life, we’re here to help them blossom. It’s a time for growth and discovery—when everything is fresh and new. At Weinacker’s Montessori School, we provide caring, nurturing environments to help your child get the most out of learning. Through individualized attention and independent discovery, we cultivate a love of learning that can lead to lifelong success. Enroll NOW and sow the seeds of lifelong learning and success.

We understand that children learn best through use of all five senses. Our materials are specifically designed so our students can touch, see, hear, smell, and even taste things, in order to help develop and refine their learning experience.

Learning is individualized. Each of our students works at his, or her, own pace. We allow children to choose their path, respecting that they know what they are most ready to learn and experience (Montessori’s Sensitive Periods for learning).

We learn about real things in our classrooms. Our practical life activities help our students gain independence, learn organizational skills, develop coordination and concentration. We help children prepare for and experience life!

We use an integrated language approach. Initially, reading and writing are taught using Montessori’s phonetic approach, then, we incorporate those skills into all aspects of our classroom environment.

Children have freedom to move and explore. Children learn through hands-on experience and our classrooms are organized to create a calm, engaging environment. Lessons are presented in a specific order. From simplest to most complex, math concepts are presented as concrete, hands-on activities, which lead to a core understanding of more abstract problems.

We believe in hands-on learning. Our materials are designed so that children can experience success without failure. We offer a positive, hands-on learning experience. Our goal is a well-trained child who has a genuine love of learning.

learn by engaging with provided materials. Infant/Toddler classrooms are attractive and inviting. Our teachers’ role in the infant/toddler environment is to help foster each child’s independence while allowing the child to explore and learn. School is fun! Children learn while playing and play while learning. And music and art are part of the Montessori curriculum. All of which help children develop a lifelong love of learning.

We have experienced, Montessori-trained teachers. Children learn best from a teacher who is in tune with the student. Our experienced, Montessori-trained teachers help connect each child to the environment, allowing the child to

Infant - 6 Years Old

1-888-967-2445

WeinackersMontessori.com MOBILE - HILLCREST 227 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL 36608

MOBILE - UNIVERSITY 513 Georgian Drive Mobile, AL 36609 61

DAPHNE 28765 N. Main St. Daphne, AL 36526 www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Bright Beginnings Academy ad on page 37

3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Mission: It is the mission of Bright Beginnings Academy to enable students to overcome individual learning differences in order to achieve their full potential. Bright Beginnings Academy was developed to give parents an alternative for their children’s education. Each child is unique and should be taught in unique ways. At Bright Beginnings each child is individually challenged and taught to meet his/her specific needs. An individual educational plan is developed for each child and is taught in small group settings. We offer a full day academic program specializing in dyslexia. Grades: 1st - 8th Extra Curricular: Archery Team, Art Club, Private Guitar and Piano lessons (251) 525-9105 info@brightdyslexics.com www.brightdyslexics.com

Corpus Christi Catholic School ad on pages 37 and 47

6300 McKenna Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Mission: Corpus Christi Catholic School serves students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Established in 1958 by Corpus Christi Parish, the school is committed to building the Body of Christ. It seeks to integrate the teachings of the inspired Word of God with a sense of Christian fellowship and service to community. Corpus Christi Catholic School is committed to high academic performance in a Christian setting, laying the foundation for a productive, faith-filled life. Dedicated faculty and staff nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, to achieve academic success, and to serve others as disciples of Jesus. Grades: PK3 - 8th Extra Curricular: Duke Scholars TIP Program, National Junior Honor Society, Computer Club, Scholars Bowl, Student-produced weekly news program: Corpus Christi News (CCN), Student Leadership Committee, Drama Club, Pro-Life Club, Yearbook, Scouts and Elementary Band (5 – 8 grades), and Disciples of St. Michael Service Club. Additional Info: Registration for the 2018 -2019 school begins in January. (251) 342-5474 school@corpuschristiparish.com school.corpuschristiparish.com

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Church Campus ad on pages 17 and 48

4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Mission: Through excellent academics, spiritual development, and outstanding extracurricular activities, Cottage Hill Christian Academy partners with our parents to help our students reach their God-given potential and to become servant leaders who will impact the world for Christ. Grades: Infants - 8th Extra Curricular: Sports: Football, Basketball, Soccer, Running Club, Track and Field (7th&/8th), Volleyball, Softball (7th & 8th), Golf, Cheerleading. Clubs/Organizations: National Junior Honor Society, Service Leadership, Music Conservatory, Fine Arts/Drama School Connections: Student Government Association, Robotics, Scholar’s Bowl, Science Olympiad, Spelling Bee, Geography Bee, Big Buddies Program For Parents: Warrior Club, Parent /Teacher Fellowship (251) 660-2427 www.chcacademy.com

Cottage Hill Christian Academy West Campus ad on pages 17 and 48

7355 Creekwood Drive, Mobile, AL 36695 Mission: Through excellent academics, spiritual development, and outstanding extracurricular activities, Cottage Hill Christian Academy partners with our parents to help our students reach their God-given potential and to become servant leaders who will impact the world for Christ. Grades: 9th - 12th Extra Curricular: Extra-Curricular Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Cross Country, Track and Field, Volleyball, Swimming, Tennis, Softball, Golf, Cheerleading Clubs/Organizations: National Honors Society, National Junior Honor Society, Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Mu Alpha Theta, Art League, Theater Arts, Young Women of Virtue, Social Awareness Club, Spanish Club, Math Club, Science Club, Fashion Club, Running Club, Student-Led Ministries School Connections: Student Government Association, Robotics, Scholar’s Bowl, Science Olympiad, Math Bowl, Debate Team, Big Buddies Program. For Parents; Warrior Club, Parent /Teacher Fellowship (251) 634-2513 www.chcacademy.com

Covenant Christian School ad on pages 38 and 49

7150 Hitt Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Mission: The mission of Covenant Christian School is to graduate students who are prepared to understand their world, to communicate with their world, and to influence their world for Christ through servant-leadership. Biblical standards and values form the core of our working principles at CCS. We equip our students with a view of the world that acknowledges its brokenness, yet offers it restoration in Christ. To understand these things and to communicate these things are the foundations of influence that we sow into the students of Covenant Christian School. The quality of our teachers, the focus of our Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

www.mobilebayparents.com

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curriculum and the soundness of our methods have resulted in a strong academic consistency. This consistency has enabled our students to go on to become leaders in high school, top ten graduates, valedictorians, salutatorians, and IB candidates. Grades: K4-8th Extra Curricular: Scholars Bowl, Service Projects, Volleyball, Track, Cross Country, Basketball, Soccer, Cheerleading, AHSAA member, Spelling Bee, Private Piano & Band Instrument Instruction, Art, Music, Drama, Foreign Language Instruction, 8th Grade Mission Trip and Field Trips (251) 633-8055 info@covenantschool.com www.covenantschool.com

Faith Academy

ad on pages 18 and 50

8650 Tanner Williams Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Mission: It is the mission of Faith Academy to offer quality Christian education in a safe, clean and orderly environment, while assisting and encouraging our students to realize who they are in Christ. Vision: Faith Academy endeavors to provide for our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; spiritual, artistic, athletic, social and personal needs through our daily school programs and extracurricular activities. Our goal is to develop Christian young people who will impact and change the world around them for Christ. Grades: PK3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12th Extra Curricular: Student Government Association, Band, Choir, Drama, Chapel Worship Team, Chapel Worship Team, Heart for Life (Pro-Life) Club, Military Support Club,, Robotics Club, Science Olympiad, Sr. High/Junior High Math Competition, Physics Competition, Oratorical Contest, Writing Competition, Sr. High NHS, Sr. High Beta, Jr High NHS, Jr. High Beta, Scholars Bowl , Missions Club, 4-H Club, School Yearbook Staff, Art Competition, Miss Ram Pageant, Football, Baseball, Basketball, Track, Cross Country, Soccer, Archery, Swimming and Golf, Volleyball, Fast-pitch Softball, and Cheerleading.

physically, and socially, from a Biblical perspective with a God-centered point of view and to prepare them to influence others for Christ. Grades: PK4 - 8th Extra Curricular: Volleyball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Drama, Service Club, Spanish Club, Spelling & Geography Bee, Honor Society, and more. (251) 661-1987 www.knollwoodchristian.com

Little Flower Catholic School

(251) 633-RAMS (7267) info@faithacademy.us www.faithacademy.us

ad on page 13

2103 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36606 Mission: The mission of Little Flower Catholic School is to provide a quality Catholic education for all the children from the diverse economic and cultural backgrounds of the families in our community. We respect and encourage each individual learner to reach his or her maximum potential spiritually,

Knollwood Christian School ad on pages 35 and 51

1501 Knollwood Drive, Mobile, AL 36609 Mission: Our mission is to lovingly train students spiritually, academically,

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St. Dominic Catholic School

developing a strong faith and relationship with God; academically, continuing to be a life-long learner; physically, having healthy living habits; and emotionally, becoming a self-disciplined, well-rounded member of our “Loop” community who tries every day to “do little things with great love” as did our patron, Saint Therese of the Child Jesus. Grades: PK3 - 8th Extra Curricular: Catholic Youth Organization Sports (Football, Soccer, Basketball, and more), Academic Clubs such as National Honor Society, SGA, K-8 Spanish, Choir, Our Habitat, weekly all-school Mass, Preschool Mardi Gras Parade, Eighth grade/Kindergarten Buddies, Alliance for Catholic Education placements, and more.

ad on pages 25 and 55

4160 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Mission: Saint Dominic Catholic School provides a learning environment that develops students to their fullest potential through an exceptional foundation in faith, academics, leadership, and service. Founded in 1961, Saint Dominic is a co-educational school serving the surrounding Mobile community and offering students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade a well-rounded Catholic education. The school’s Catholic tradition is rooted in the educational ministry of St. Dominic Catholic Parish, the Irish Sisters of Mercy, and the Archdiocese of Mobile. St. Dominic students live the beliefs and values of Jesus Christ. Grades: PK2 - 8th Extra Curricular: Magnus Math Team, Band (Grades 5 – 8), Geography Bee, Student Council, Duke Talent Identification Program, Angels on a Mission Service Club, Scholar’s Bowl, National Junior Honor Society, Technology Team, Spelling Bee, Altar Servers, Junior CYO, Choir, Archery and Robotics. The Booster Club, under direction of the Parish, coordinates soccer, volleyball, basketball, football, cross country and cheerleading. Saint Dominic Catholic School is a member of the Alabama High School Athletic Association. Students in grades 7 and 8 may qualify to play selected sports at McGill-Toolen High School.

(251) 479-5761 www.littleflower.cc

McGill-Toolen Catholic High School ad on pages 33 and 52

1501 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36604 Mission: McGill-Toolen Catholic High School provides a quality secondary education which enables individuals to grow in faith, to search for knowledge and truth in mind, body, and spirit, and continue building the kingdom of God on earth. By active involvement in the learning process, students are prepared for lives of Christian leadership and service. Grades: 9th - 12th Extra Curricular: Spiritual Life and Service: Campus Ministry, Pro-Life Club, Team Woman, Praise and Worship, Servants of the Poor, Friends of Exceptional Children, Key Club, Ambassadors, McT School Pride, Magic Club; Academic: Spanish Club, French Club, Latin Club, Hi-Q Club, Scholars Bowl, Physics Club, Chemistry Club, National Honor Society, Debate Club, Book Club, Chess Club; Journalism: Ingenium Literary Magazine, Vespidae Yearbook, Video Production and Broadcasting; Arts and Culture: African American Club, National Art Honor Society, Photography Club, Art Club, Drama Club, Chorus, Band, Color Guard; Athletic & Sports: Intramural sports, Cross Country, Track, Football, Baseball, Softball, Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Cheerleading, Golf, Volleyball, Swim and Dive, Bowling.

(251) 661-5226 www.stdominicmobile.org

St. Ignatius Catholic School ad on pages 33 and 56

3650 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Mission: St. Ignatius Catholic School, a ministry of St. Ignatius Parish in Spring Hill, strives to educate the whole child by providing a quality Catholic education in a safe and caring learning environment. Focusing on Jesus the Redeemer, children are encouraged to strive for excellence in spiritual, academic, social, and physical activities. Through a variety of curricular and extracurricular activities, children are taught to become productive and exemplary Christian leaders for the future. Grades: PK2 - 8th Extra Curricular: Scholar’s Bowl, Science Bowl, Children’s Choir, CYO Sports (Football, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Tennis and Golf), Robotic’s Club, Yearbook Club, Student Government Association, Service Projects per grade level, Elementary and Junior Honor Societies, Children of Mary, Computer Fair, Art Exhibits, Music Productions, Order of St. Ignatius, Young Men of St. Joseph and the Pro-life Club.

(251) 445-2900 www.mcgill-toolen.org

Mobile Christian School ad on pages 11 and 53

5900 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Mission: The mission of Mobile Christian School is to provide a college preparatory education in a Christ centered community which our students with the desire and ability to serve God, family, and fellow man. Grades: PK3 - 12th Extra Curricular: Band, SGA, Elementary, Junior, and National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Standards, STARS, Art Club, Spelling Bee, Robotics, Chorus, Service Club, Yearbook, Mu Alpha Theta, Football, Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Golf, Softball, Track, Volleyball, and Soccer

(251) 342-5442 office@stignatius.org www.stignatius.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Early Childhood and Lower School Campus ad on pages 29 and 57

3975 Japonica Lane, Mobile, AL 36693 Mission: St. Luke’s Episcopal School presents a college preparatory community developing young men and women of honor, faith and responsibility with character and intellect to thrive in college and life. Grades: PK2 - 5th Extra Curricular: Student Ambassador Program, Violin/Strings Program, Science Olympiad, Geography Bee, Spelling Bee, Archery, Green Team, Safety Patrol, Art Club, Science Club, K3-K5 intramural athletics (t-ball, soccer, cheerleading), Grades 1 and 2 intramural athletics (football, basketball, cheerleading, soccer), Grades 3-6 Youth Development League athletics (football, volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, soccer, golf, cross country), After School and Morning Care available, Summer Day Camp Program

(251) 661-1613 info@mobilechristian.org www.mobilechristian.org

Mobile Junior Academy ad on pages 4 and 54

1900 Cody Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 Mission: Mobile Junior Academy exists to acquaint our students with Christ and equip them for a life of service. To fulfill our mission, we will: Promote spiritual and moral development of the students, Maintain high standards of scholastic excellence, Develop the students’ ability to think clearly and logically, Uphold the Holy Scriptures as the basis for all of our teaching, Instruct in principles of health, physical well-being, basic skills and the dignity of labor, Teach responsibilities and privileges of good citizenship, and Stress preparation for service to God, the church, the community and the world. Grades: PK4 - 8 Additional Info: Mobile Junior Academy is an accredited, Seventh-day Adventist elementary school serving families in Mobile, Alabama. Our school provides all students with an opportunity to develop a life of faith in God, and to use their knowledge and skills to serve God and our community. Adventist Accreditation Association (AAA), National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA), Candidate for Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (Regional Accreditation).

(251) 666-2991 www.stlukesmobile.com

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Middle and Upper School Campus ad on pages 29 and 57

1400 University Boulevard South, Mobile, AL 36609 Mission: St. Luke’s Episcopal School presents a college preparatory community developing young men and women of honor, faith and responsibility with character and intellect to thrive in college and life. Grades: 6th - 12th Extra Curricular: Honor Council, Student Government Association, Student Council, Student Ambassador Program, Key Club, Center Stage, Robotics,

(251) 633-8638 www.mobilejunioracademy.com

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Marching Band, Concert Band, Violin/Strings, Chorus, High-Q Team, Middle School and Upper School Scholars Bowl, Science Olympiad, Yearbook, Film Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Chess Club, Future Business Leaders of America, Young Republicans, Young Democrats, Friends of Exceptional Children, SLES Service Club, National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, Quill and Scroll, Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish and Latin Honor Societies, Strength and Speed Training, Archery, Geography Bee, Spelling Bee, 6th Grade Youth Development League athletics (football, cheerleading, basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf, cross country), Grades 7-12 AHSAA athletics: Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Baseball, Cross Country, Cheerleading, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Swimming/Diving, After Hours Study/Supervision Program (251) 666-2991 www.stlukesmobile.com

St. Mary Catholic School ad on page 58

107 North Lafayette Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Mission: Our mission is to provide an environment where Jesus’ message of love meets the spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional needs of our children. This mission is manifested through MARY: Moral, Accomplished, Responsible, Yearning to Learn. Grades: PK3 - 8th Extra Curricular: Computer Lab with Internet Access for all students, Band Program (5-8 grades), Children’s Choir, Ballet and Jazz, Duke University Talent Search Program, Catholic Youth Organization Sports (Football, Cheerleading, Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Golf, and more), Spelling Bee, National Junior Honor Society, Bay Area Scholastic Challenge League, Regional Technology Fair, Local Science Fair, Pro-Life Club, Computer Club, Robotics, Geography Bee, Scouting, Drama Club

(251) 433-9904 www.stmarymobile.org

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St. Paul’s Episcopal School

ters respect, integrity, responsibility, service, tolerance, and the highest moral standards to prepare the whole person for a changing and challenging future. Grades: PK - 12th Extra Curricular: Lower School (PreK-2nd Grade) – Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, Strings, Techies Club (3&4), Intramural Sports: Soccer, Basketball, Football, Cheerleading, Volleyball (3&4); Morning Bible Story Time, BUCS (Boys United in Christ) and GEMS (Girls Enrichment Ministries), After School Care “After School Matters,” Summer Day Camp. Middle School (5th - 8th ) – Art Club, Class Officers, Cheerleading, Academic Contests, Fellowship of Christian Students, Middle School Student Council, Scholars Bowl, Science Olympiad, Rutledge Fellows of Philanthropy, National Junior Honor Society, BUCS (Boys United in Christ) and GEMS (Girls Enrichment Ministries), Football, Volleyball, Cross-Country, Basketball, Baseball, Track, Soccer. Upper School (9th - 12th ): Cheerleading, Culinary Club, Class Officers, Computer Club, Fellowship of Christian Students, Fine Arts Club, French Club, Interact Club, Key Club, Morning Saints, Mentor Club, Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, National French Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, Robotics, Rutledge Fellows of Philanthropy, Scholars Bowl, Sierra Club, Spanish Club, St. Paul’s Players, St. Paul’s Chamber Singers and Concert Chorus, St. Paul’s Chamber Strings, Marching Saints, SGA, Student Newspaper (The Epistle), Yearbook (The Halo), Art and Poetry annual publication (Logos), Forensics/Theatrics Club, Youth Judicial, Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Swimming & Diving, Tennis, Track, Volleyball and Track & Field. Additional Info: Programs of Study: Advanced Placement Program, Alternative Instruction Program, Honors Program (251) 342-6700 www.stpaulsmobile.net

UMS-Wright Preparatory School ad on pages 15 and 60

65 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Mission: For the UMS-Wright Family to educate all students to their highest potential in mind, body, and spirit and to produce in each student character of the highest possible order. Grades: PK3 - 12th Extra Curricular: Middle and Upper Schools: Upper School Chorus, Middle School Chorus, Pawcapellas, Chorale, Art Guild, Fall Play, Marching Band, Concert Band, Spring Musical, Middle School Play, Bulldog Review, Technology Club, Honor Council, Key Club, Jr. Optimist Club, Mind’s Eye Editors, Bulldog

ad on pages 23 and 59

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608 Mission: St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, Alabama is committed to providing the highest quality college preparatory education in a Christian environment. Through a variety of experiences and activities, we encourage individual growth and achievement. By example, the St. Paul’s community fos-

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students with both the desire and ability to fulfill God’s purposes for their lives. Grades: PK4 - 9 Extra Curricular: Our mission is to provide a quality Christian education within a caring, nurturing, and challenging environment; which develops the entire person and equips students with both the desire and ability to fulfill God’s purposes for their lives. Additional Info: Double Accredited.

Beat Middle School Newspaper, Crimson and Grey Newspaper Editors, Science Olympiad, Scholars Bowl, Scholastic Challenge, Youth Judicial, Chess Club, Book Club, Congress Representatives, SGA President and Vice-Presidents, Dunlap Tech Crew, Dawghouse Morning Announcement Crew, Wright Players, Wright Singers, Yearbook Editors, Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Cheerleading, Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Swim/Dive, Tennis, Indoor Track, and Volleyball. Lower School: 3rd-4th Grade Chorus, Piano and Strings Lessons, Robotics, Intramurals in Swimming, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Cross Country, Track and Softball, After School Enrichment Classes (Science, Language, Robotics, etc.), Ballet, Baby Bulldog Cheerleaders, Bull Pups, Bulldog Athletic Association - Football, Basketball, Cheerleading and Softball in Grades 3-4.

(251) 660-7444 www.governmentstreetchristian.org

• Life Institute Christian School

351 South Craft Highway, Chickasaw, AL 36611 Mission: The mission of the Word of Life Institute is to provide a biblically based, individualized educational program in a loving Christ centered atmosphere, to build and develop strong Christian character in the lives of our students, to prepare students to face and to overcome the challenges presented to them in this age, therefore causing them to create changes in the world which they live. The Word of Life Institute utilizes an individualized accelerated Christian education curriculum that allows the student to achieve attainable educational goals at his or her own pace. It is individualized because each student is tested and prescribed a learning track that is on their current performance level. Grades: K - 12 Extra Curricular: Video Editing, TV Production and Office Management Skills

(251) 479-6551 admissions@ums-wright.org www.ums-wright.org

Weinacker’s Montessori School ad on page 61

227 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36608 (251) 344-8755 www.weinackersmontessori.com

513 Georgian Drive, Mobile, AL 36609

(251) 456-2652 lifeinstitutechristianschool@gmail.com www.lifeinstitutechristianschool.com

(251) 342-5399 www.weinackersmontessori.com

Mission: We believe every child is born with unique potential. And in order for your child to reach their potential, it must first be revealed. That’s where our highly skilled teachers and unique approach come in. First and foremost, we at Weinacker’s Montessori School encourage the children to learn while playing and play while learning. Studies show that using a sensory approach to learning is the most effective way to learn and retain it. So, at Weinacker’s Montessori Schools students get to move around and explore, allowing them to learn while using their five senses in a safe and engaging environment. This not only gives them the freedom to explore their natural abilities, it allows your child to have a unique, individualized learning experience. This helps instill self-confidence and a lifelong curiosity for knowledge. After all, we’re not just preparing your child for their education; we’re preparing them for life! Grades: infant-3rd grade

• LWCC Kingdom Academy

1060 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Mission: LWCC Kingdom Academy is dedicated to providing a spiritual and academic life of excellence in the Kingdom of depth and devotion in an atmosphere of love, learning, and achievement. Supported by a community of prayer and guidance preparing our students for a lifetime of learning and impacting their world with Biblical principles of the Kingdom of God. LWCC Kingdom Academy offers a purposeful Christ-centered education in spiritual and academic excellence. Grades: K - 8 Extra Curricular: Computer, Foreign Language, Video Phonics, Art, Math, Nature & Science, Rhythm & Music, Creative Drama, Reading Readiness, P.E./Health and a variety of educational experiences. (251) 433-5866 www.lwccim.com

• Government Street Christian School

3401 Government Blvd, Mobile, AL 36693 Mission: Our mission is to provide a quality Christian education within a caring, nurturing, and challenging environment; which develops the entire person and equips

• Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic School

310 Sengstak Street, Mobile, AL 36603 Mission: The Mission Statement of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic School

Children’s of Alabama is ... l The

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first LEED-certified hospital building in Alabama

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Children’s South

205.638.4800 1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Birmingham, AL 35243 Outpatient surgery services, Pediatric Imaging Center, laboratory services, specialty care clinics and After Hours care

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

www.ChildrensAL.org

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Grades: PK3 - 8th Extra Curricular: SVS Robotics, Student Government Association, National Junior Honor Society, McGill-Toolen Elementary Band Program, Catholic Youth Organization Sports (Football, Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Golf and more), Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Altar Servers

is to prepare students for servant leadership by providing a strong educational program which engages the student in the learning process, assists in conscience formation, based on Christian values in the Catholic tradition and cultivates respect and responsibility. Grades: PK3 – 8th Extra Curricular: Catholic Youth Organization Sports (Football, Cheerleading, Basketball, Volleyball and more), Choir, Drumline, Scholar’s Bowl, Student Council, Student/ Teacher Mentoring Program.

(251) 666-8022 info@svsschool.org www.svsschool.org

• The Learning Tree, Inc.

5451 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Mission: The Learning Tree, Inc. exists to provide a warm and loving environment with individualized, empirically validated services and supports to persons with significant educational, medical, and behavioral challenges; helping them develop and maintain a quality of life expected by non-disabled members of their family and community.

(251) 432-5270 www.heartofmaryschoolmobile.org

• Revelation Christian School

1711 Taylor Lane, Mobile, AL 36605 Mission: The mission of the Revelation Christian School is to inspire our children with a biblically integrated curriculum that will equip them to excel spiritually, physically, and academically. Also, to challenge them to build Godly character that will cultivate a Christ-centered worldview. Grades: PK4 - 5th Extra Curricular: Sports Program and Dance Program Additional Info: Member of the Association of Christian Schools International

(251) 649-4420 www.learning-tree.org

• Trinity Lutheran

2668 Berkley Avenue, Mobile, AL 36617 Mission: The Mission of Trinity Lutheran School is to know and serve God, to promote justice, and to render service to the community by offering parents a choice of school and providing a safe, caring, and productive environment in which children are equipped for responsible citizenship. Grades: PK2 – 5th(251) 456-7960 school@trinitylutheranmobile.org

(251) 473-2555 www.rmbcmob.org

• St. Pius X Catholic School

217 South Sage Avenue, Mobile, AL 36606 Mission: St. Pius X School offers a quality Catholic Christian environment that promotes intellectual, spiritual and moral growth. We provide a solid education, rooted in the Gospel values and supported through parental and community involvement. In our students we cultivate knowledge and nurture faith, and in so doing, create the leaders of tomorrow. Grades: PK3 - 8th Extra Curricular: Catholic Youth Organization Sports (Football, Cheerleading, Soccer, Basketball, Golf, and more), Junior Catholic Youth Organization for 7th & 8th grade students, Organic Gardening, NJHS, Math Club, Rosary ClubScholars Bowl, Student Council, WSPX News, Scouts, Elementary Band & Children’s Choir, Keep Mobile Recycling Program.

www.trinitylutheranmobile.org

• Safe Haven Christian School

803 North Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Prichard, AL 36610 Mission: The school’s primary mission is to foster a love of learning in each student and partner with our parents to meet the academic need of our students.Our curriculum skillfully weaves artistic and practical disciplines into everyday academics. Students learn to follow their curiosity, to think creatively, and to work both independently and cooperatively with others.Grades: PK4 12 Extra Curricular: Music, School Band, Marching Angels, Art and Spanish

(251) 473-5004 lalvarez@mobilearchdiocese.org www.stpiustenth.com/school

(251) 457-6088 www.safehaven803.com

• St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School

4980 St. Vincent Drive, Mobile, AL 36619 Mission: St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School provides a nurturing family environment that is traditional, yet progressive. Students are valued as individuals and taught to utilize their unique abilities to master essential knowledge and skills; actively solve problems; and produce meaningful, relevant work. St. Vincent de Paul champions each student’s success and teaches to honor the values of Catholic identity through moral integrity and service to others.

• Evangel Christian School

1277 Jubilee Drive, Saraland, AL 36571 Mission: The purpose of Evangel Christian School is to teach, train, and lead young children to Christ. We also desire to reach the extended family of every child God entrusts to us. On a daily basis training is given in Bible, Christian character, language, and traditional subject matter. We believe the word of

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God which says, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” We also treasure Psalm 119:11, “Thy word (the Bible) have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” With a firm foundation from God’s Word and proper Christian training, students of Evangel Christian School can make wise decisions for the present and proper decisions for the future. Grades: PK3 - 5th

success. We are accredited through NAPS and we are approved by the NCAA for Div. 1 & 2 scholarships and athletics. Our K3-5th grades utilize the ABeka curriculum while our 6-12th graders use a completely digital curriculum where each student is issued their own chrome book. Our Home school Option is available for 3-12th and it also utilizes our 100% digital program. All home school students need is the ability to connect to the internet to do their classes anywhere in the world. We are celebrating 18 years of Christian Education and we just built a brand new 10,000 sq ft building for our gymnasium and classroom. Call today to schedule a private tour of our campus to see if GBA is a good fit for your family. Please note our enrollment typically fills up before the current academic year has ended. We already have a waiting list for the upcoming school year. Grades: K3-12th Dayscholl & 3-12th home school option Extra Curricular: Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Music, Voice, Violin, Piano, Guitar

(251) 675-4619 www.fountainoflifechurch.net/church/evangel-christian-school

• North Mobile Christian

1255 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, AL 36571 Mission: It is the mission of North Mobile Christian School to enable students to honor God in their spiritual, academic, social, and personal development through Christian education based on a Biblical worldview. Grades: PK3 - 8 Extra Curricular: National Junior Honor Society, Yearbook, Scholars Bowl, Student Council, Volleyball, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Archery, Flag Football, Cross Country, & Golf

(251) 649-7398 www.gbcacademy.com

• Lighthouse Baptist Academy

6335 Swedetown Road North, Theodore, AL 36582 Mission: Academics are a vital part of every young person’s life. Lighthouse Baptist Academy is committed to helping students achieve academic excellence in all disciplines and to providing students with the instruction and guidance they need to realize their own potential. We believe that a child’s education must aim for the total person: academically, spiritually, morally, and physically. We also believe that a Christ-centered curriculum and academic excellence can coexist. At LBA, our curriculum is developed to provide students with the best possible program of studies. Grades: PK - 12th Extra Curricular: Athletics (Volleyball, Basketball, and Football), Vocal Ensembles, Yearbook, Newspaper, Piano Lessons, Band Instrument Lessons, Drama, Community Outreach

(251) 679-3279 www.northmobilechristian.org

• Satsuma Christian School

5600 Old Highway 43, Satsuma, AL 36572 Mission: The mission of Satsuma Christian School is to include giving each student an opportunity to come to know God through Jesus Christ, giving each student full opportunity and the necessary resources to develop his or her full potential; spiritually, academically, socially, and physically. By doing so, Satsuma Christian School will strive to help ensure that students attain high academic excellence in preparations for advanced curriculum studies on the secondary level while emphasizing the Bible, the Word of God, in school life and daily studies so that the students and faculty reflect Christian morals and ethics in their daily lives. Grades: PK3 - 3rd Extra Curricular: Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Soccer, Cross Country, Flag Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball, Art, Band, and other clubs.

(251) 653-6542 info@lbatheodore.com

www.lbatheodore.com

• Prichard Preparatory School

743 Mt. Sinai Avenue, Whistler, AL 36612 Mission: To educate students academically, spiritually, and culturally, and to develop their character in preparation for the pursuit of collegiate degrees. Grades: PK - 5th Extra Curricular: Music, Ensemble, Newspaper, Track, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, National Elementary Honor Society, Classical Ballet, Safety Patrol, Student Government Association Additional Info: Accredited by AISA and AdvancED/SACS (251) 380-7220 info@prichardprepschool.com www.prichardprepschool.com MBP

(251) 675-1295 www.satsumachristianschool.com

• Grace Baptist Academy

8780 Howell’s Fairy Road, Semmes, AL 36575 Mission: Grace Baptist Academy is a private Christian school making available an college preparatory education to families of like faith desiring to educate their children in a Christian environment. Our purpose is to develop the mind of Christ in the lives of our students as we train and equip them for

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Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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Protect your family. Prepare for their future. Allison Horner, Agent 6353 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL 36609 Bus: 251-666-1616 allison.horner.p8hw@statefarm.com

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Magnet Schools in Mobile

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Clark-Shaw School of Math, Science, and Technology ad on page 30

5960 Arlberg Street, Mobile, AL 36608 Mission: As a school of choice, our mission at Clark-Shaw Magnet School is to develop students into globally aware and productive citizens who excel academically and are responsible, courteous, life-long learners. This will be accomplished by providing a challenging curriculum in a safe and nurturing environment. Grades: 6th - 8th Extra Curricular: AdvancED Accreditation, Ambassadors, Chess Team, French Club, Geology Club, Hearts to Humans, National Junior Honor Society, Robotics Team, Scholastic Challenge Team, Soccer Club, Student Council, Yearbook Staff, Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Football, Soccer, Softball, Track and Volleyball Additional Info: Clark-Shaw School of Math, Science, and Technology serves 850 students in grades 6-8 and is a twice-recognized National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Faculty and staff encourage students to learn through laboratorybased science, mathematics, and technology courses. At Clark-Shaw School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology, all students participate in project-based instruction in a culture of high expectations for academic success. Clark-Shaw’s curriculum is accelerated.

international baccalaureate’s learner profile: caring, knowledgeable, risk-takers, reflective, thinkers, open-minded, communicators, inquirers, principled, and balanced. The curriculum provides opportunities for academic exploration, extension and mastery of all subjects with emphasis placed on project-based learning opportunities that encourage students to apply their learning to real world situations.

(251) 221-2106 www.clark.mcm.schoolinsites.com

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Council Traditional School ad on page 24

(251) 221-2286

751 Wilkinson Street, Mobile, AL 36603 Mission: The mission of W. H. Council Traditional School to be the school of choice that generates students who excel academically and are responsible, courteous citizens. This will be accomplished by providing a challenging curriculum in an atmosphere of high expectations. With the fulfillment of this mission, W. H. Council Traditional School will generate a community of global learners. Grades: K-5th Extra Curricular: AdvancED Accreditation, Fine Arts Additional Info: Council Traditional School emphasizes accelerated academics and communications skills for 700 students in grades K-5. Council Traditional School is a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and provides Spanish instruction to its students at all grade levels, as well as project-based learning through its International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program and through Talents Unlimited skills-based lessons.

www.phillipsprep.com

Denton Magnet School of Technology

3800 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36607 Mission: The Mission of Denton Magnet is to prepare students to be successful in high school and beyond. Grades: 6th - 8th Extra Curricular: AdvancED Accreditation, Robotics, Future City, Technology Student Association, Basketball, Cheerleading, Football, Soccer, Track and Field, Volleyball Additional Info: Denton Magnet School of Technology serves 500 students in grades 6-8. Denton Magnet School provides a quality education that prepares students to meet the challenges of the 21st Century. It features a technology-driven curriculum that focuses on communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking. Mastery of specific technology tools are integrated into digital projects and assignments in core subjects. Students go beyond the use of software applications, to include exposure to algorithms, data structures and data management. Denton’s curriculum is accelerated.

(251) 221-1139 www.council.mce.schoolinsites.com

Eichold-Mertz School of Math and Science

(251) 221-2148

ad on page 38

2815 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36606 Mission: The mission of Eichold-Mertz Magnet School of Mathematics, Science and Technology is to produce curious, confident students who explore, experiment and solve problems which will ensure success in the 21st century. Grades: K - 5th Extra Curricular: STEM, Robotics, Safety Patrol, AdvancED Accreditation Additional Info: Eichold-Mertz School of Math and Science serves 600 students in grades K-5 and is an ideal learning environment for students interested in an accelerated mathematics, science, and technology curriculum. Students learn using a laboratory-based math and science curriculum. Teachers at Eichold-Mertz strive to produce curious, confident students who explore, experiment, and solve problems to ensure success in the 21st century.

www.dentonmagnet.mcm.schoolinsites.com

Dunbar School of Performing Arts

500 St. Anthony Street, Mobile, AL 36693 Mission: The mission of the Paul L. Dunbar Creative and Performing Arts Magnet School is to prepare students through an integration of the arts, to become literate, productive, self-confident, responsible citizens who are able to function independently in a technological world. Grades: 6th - 8th Extra Curricular: AdvancED Accreditation, Band, National Junior Honor Society, Scholar Bowl Additional Info: Dunbar School of Performing Arts serves 535 students in grades 6-8 and emphasizes a strong academic curriculum with a focus on creative and performing arts. Student learning is enhanced with electives in band, strings, piano, guitar, chorus, dance, baton, art, ceramics, musical theater, and drama. Dunbar Magnet School provides students opportunities to develop skills in the creative and performing arts by providing instruction equivalent to that of private lessons. Artsintegrated instruction, project-based learning and annual recitals and performances are used to support the curriculum of Dunbar School of Creative and Performing Arts. Dunbar has standard grade level curriculum with advanced course offerings.

(251) 221-1105 www.magnetschoolofmathscienceandtech.mcs.schoolinsites.com

Phillips Preparatory School ad on page 41

(251) 221-2160

3255 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 Mission: The mission of Phillips Preparatory School is to produce globally-minded individuals who are compassionate, self-directed, goal-oriented, and technologically-literate. Our mission will be accomplished by providing an innovative college and career-focused curriculum that encourages curiosity, instills responsibility, and cultivates life-long learners who seek to create a better and more peaceful world. Grades: 6th - 8th Extra-Curricular: AdvancEd Accreditation, Exploratory Department, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Book Club, Chess, Math Team, National Junior Honor Society, PPS Ambassadors, PTSA, Students Working Against Tobacco, (S.W.A.T.), Scholars Bowl, Student Council, Video Production, Band, Chorus, Drama, Basketball, Track, Cheerleading, Football, Soccer, Archery and Volleyball. Additional Information: Phillips Preparatory received the 2017 Lagniappe’s “Best Public School” award and has also received the Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence two times. Phillips Prep offers an international baccalaureate curriculum to over 800 students in grades 6-8 and emphasizes the

www.dunbar.mcm.schoolinsites.com

Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts

3160 Heather Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Mission: The mission of Old Shell Road School is to provide a safe learning environment where each of us have the opportunity to develop positive character and to do our best in academics and the arts. Grades: K - 5th Additional Info: Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts Serves 525 students in grades K-5 and emphasizes a strong academic program enhanced with dance, drama, art, and music courses. The arts are infused into academic classes to increase student achievement. It is the philosophy of Old Shell Road Magnet School that children learn in different ways and that the arts provide an additional way to help each child reach his/her potential academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Old Shell Road School for the Creative and Performing Arts was named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in 2015. (251) 221-1157

www.oldshell.mcm.schoolinsites.com

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Friday January 5

Little Discoveries with Mr Wayne 10:30 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Mr. Wayne from the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center presents lessons and projects fusing science and literature for preschool children. Ages 3-6. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Black Jacket Symphony: Led Zeppelin “IV” 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. Led Zeppelin “IV” album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked–the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. www.mobilesaenger.com

Saturday January 6

Reboot Technology 5K Walk/Run 8:00 AM University of South Alabama, 307 North University Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Reboot Technology a project that supports computer education. runsignup.com Curious George Story Time 10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36604 Join us every other week for a reading of some of your favorite Curious George books. Each installment will be read by a different local “celebrity” and will take place in the Curious George exhibit or the Wharf of Wonder. Make sure to show up a little early so you can get the best spot in the space! These events are free for Exploreum members and included in the price of admission for non-members. www.exploreum.com Kids Studio ($5 or Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Ages 3-10. www.alabamacontemporary.org

Sunday January 7

Curiosity Factory Workshops 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36604 We will study the science of convex lenses, and the difference between virtual and real imagery by using shoeboxes to make smartphone projectors! www.exploreum.com Sing-A-Long with the Mobile Opera (Free) 2:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Seriously… It’s a Sing-A-Long! Follow the yellow brick road with the Mobile Opera! And to make it even more fun, come dressed as your favorite character from the movie. Costume and vocal talent not required. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Jason Isbell 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit concert. www.mobilesaenger.com

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

Regions Bank presents Clay Walker 7:00 PM The Steeple on St. Francis, 251 St Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Clay Walker at The Steeple. www.thesteeplemobile.com

Monday January 8

Tuesday January 9

Little Mermaid Jr. Auditions 6:00 PM Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East Mobile, 36606 Auditions for The Little Mermaid, Jr. will take place January 8-9 at 6:00pm. Grades K-5 www.azaleacityarts.com Shen Yun Performing Arts 2018 7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36608 You will be taken on a journey to magnificent eras in Chinese history, as well as to periods from China’s recent past. Ancient stories and legends, ethnic and folk traditions, villains and heroes will come to life on stage through classical Chinese dance, live music, and stunning digital backdrops. You can expect an experience like no other, one that not only entertains, but also enriches and inspires. www.shenyun.com/mobile

Wednesday January 10

Winter Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , 36582 Even during the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty. Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more. The Winter Wednesdays sessions are held each week in the Magnolia Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. through Feb. 28. Admission to the program is included in the regular Gardens admission, and guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens after the session. Registration is requested: To register, call 251-459-8864. January 10: Winter Garden Walk - Learn about the interesting winter borders and containers throughout the Gardens from Bellingrath’s Horticulture Management Team: Executive Director Dr. Bill Barrick, Nursery Manager Chuck Owens and Display Coordinator Barbara Smith. bellingrath.org

Thursday January 11

Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Participants are invited to explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Titanic Film Festival ($5, Members are free) 7:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 The Titanic is no stranger to the big screen. Come see the exhibit and enjoy a movie on us! www.museumofmobile.com

Friday January 12

LoDa Artwalk 6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Celebrating the arts in downtown Mobile! Explore this free monthly showcase of visual and performance arts! www.specialeventsmobile.org

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Neil Simon’s Fools” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Fools is a comic fable by Neil Simon, set in the small village of Kulyenchikov, Ukraine (Russian Territory), during the late 19th century. The story follows Leon Steponovich Tolchinsky, a schoolteacher who takes a new job educating Sophia, the daughter of Doctor Zubritsky and his wife, Lenya. Leon soon learns that there is a curse on the village that makes everyone stupid, but complications ensue when Leon falls in love with his pupil. cctshows.com

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Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County”. joejeffersonplayers.com

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Saturday January 13

Kids Studio ($5 or Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Ages 3-10. www.alabamacontemporary.org Krewe de la Dauphine (Free) 1:00 PM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island Krewe de la Dauphine parade at 1:00pm. townofdauphinisland.org

Dauphin Island Elementary School.

Krewe de la Dauphine Parade 1:00 PM Krewe de la Dauphine starts at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, travels west on Bienville Boulevard and ends at 1501 Bienville - the

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FamilyCalendar a new job educating Sophia, the daughter of Doctor Zubritsky and his wife, Lenya. Leon soon learns that there is a curse on the village that makes everyone stupid, but complications ensue when Leon falls in love with his pupil. cctshows.com Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County”. joejeffersonplayers.com Secondliner Festival 2:00 PM Cathedral Square, Mobile, 36602 The Parade will start at the one and only Omega Frat house at 2pm and make it’s way through the streets of downtown to cathedral square. The festival will have food, arts and crafts, live performances by local Brass Bands, local artist, as well as nationally recorded artist, games, face painting, and of course .... the original Port City Secondliners www.mobpcs.com

Wednesday January 17

Thursday January 18

Friends of the Sea Lab The Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation is offering exclusive events to Friends of the Sea Lab in 2018. The first event is set for Friday, January 18 with Dr. Jun Ebersole of the McWane Science Center in Birmingham. Join Dr. Ebersole on a journey back to Alabama’s prehistoric past to learn about the Sea Monsters of Alabama and the current paleontological research taking place in the state. You’re encourages to bring your own Alabama fossils for Dr. Ebersole to identify. Learn how to become a Friend of the Sea Lab at sealabfoundation.org. The Artys 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, The Steeple on St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Join us for our annual arts awards event, the Artys, presented by Mobile Arts Council. Finalists will be recognized and winners will be announced in 11 categories, including: Lifetime Achievement, Patron, Art Soldier, Arts Educator, Business, Cultural Innovation, Design, Literary Artist, Organization, Performing Artist, and Visual Artist. Tickets include food, live music, and two drink tickets. www.brownpapertickets.com Titanic Film Festival ($5,

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7:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 The Titanic is no stranger to the big screen. Come see the exhibit and enjoy a movie on us!

Friday January 19

Krewe of Kindness ($25) 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, 3664 Join us for a family friendly Mardi Gras ball to raise funds for Children’s Miracle Network and the University of South Alabama Children’s and Women’s Hospital. Heavy hor d’oeuvres, children’s bites and snacks, beverages and a cash bar will be available. Several silent auction items will be available for purchase! Fun times for the whole family to dress up and dance the night under the stars and in the beautiful setting of The Pillars of Mobile. www.eventbrite.com/e/krewe-of-kindness-tickets-39941080848 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Neil Simon’s Fools” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Fools is a comic fable by Neil Simon, set in the small village of Kulyenchikov, Ukraine (Russian Territory), during the late 19th century. The story follows Leon Steponovich Tolchinsky, a schoolteacher who takes a new job educating Sophia, the daughter of Doctor Zubritsky and his wife, Lenya. Leon soon learns that there is a curse on the village that makes everyone stupid, but complications ensue when Leon falls in love with his pupil. cctshows.com Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County”. joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. www.mobiletheatreguild.org

Mobile Symphony Orchestra: Four Seasons 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Vivaldi was a master of his art in that he was capable of composing music which spoke more powerfully than words. The Four Seasons puts Vivaldi’s mastery on full display. For each season, there is a corresponding concertos which provides a vivid musical portrait. www.mobilesaenger.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. www.mobiletheatreguild.org

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Neil Simon’s Fools” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Fools is a comic fable by Neil Simon, set in the small village of Kulyenchikov, Ukraine (Russian Territory), during the late 19th century. The story follows Leon Steponovich Tolchinsky, a schoolteacher who takes a new job educating Sophia, the daughter of Doctor Zubritsky and his wife, Lenya. Leon soon learns that there is a curse on the village that makes everyone stupid, but complications ensue when Leon falls in love with his pupil. cctshows.com

Panther Pride Run 8:30 AM Murphy High School, 100 south Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Race to benefit Murphy High School Faculty Allocation Fund. www.eventbrite.com Kids Studio ($5 or Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Ages 3-10. www.alabamacontemporary.org

Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “August: Osage County”. joejeffersonplayers.com

Town of Dauphin Island Parade (Free) 1:00 PM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island Town of Dauphin Island Parade at 1:00pm. Starts at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, travels west on Bienville Boulevard and ends at 1501 Bienville - the Dauphin Island Elementary School. townofdauphinisland.org Town of Dauphin Island Parade 1:00 PM Begins at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Parade goes down Bienville Boulevard toward the West End of the island and then ends around 1501 Bienville, which is the location of the old Dauphin Island Elementary School.

Sunday January 21

Saturday January 20

Territory), during the late 19th century. The story follows Leon Steponovich Tolchinsky, a schoolteacher who takes a new job educating Sophia, the daughter of Doctor Zubritsky and his wife, Lenya. Leon soon learns that there is a curse on the village that makes everyone stupid, but complications ensue when Leon falls in love with his pupil. cctshows.com

Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. www.mobiletheatreguild.org Mobile Symphony Orchestra: Four Seasons 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Vivaldi was a master of his art in that he was capable of composing music which spoke more powerfully than words. The Four Seasons puts Vivaldi’s mastery on full display. For each season, there is a corresponding concertos which provides a vivid musical portrait. www.mobilesaenger.com

Wednesday January 24

Winter Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , 36582 Even during

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty. Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more. The Winter Wednesdays sessions are held each week in the Magnolia Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. through Feb. 28. Admission to the program is included in the regular Gardens admission, and guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens after the session. Registration is requested: To register, call 251-459-8864. January 24: Steamboats on Alabama Rivers, with Tom McGehee. Join Tom McGehee to explore the beginnings of the era of river steamers, their peak in the 1890s and their sad end by World War I. bellingrath.org Chick-Fil-A Fellowship of Christian Athletes Rally 6:30 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Many fun events are planned for the week of the Senior Bowl. Chick-Fil-A Fellowship of Christian Athletes Rally will be held on Wednesday, January 25th at the Mobile Convention Center at 6:30pm. This event is open to Public (Ticket required), please visit www. southalabamafca.org for more information. www.seniorbowl.com

Thursday January 25

Titanic Film Festival ($5, Members are free) 7:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 The Titanic is no stranger to the big screen. Come see the exhibit and enjoy a movie on us! www.museumofmobile.com Michael Gurt, Guest Artist Piano Recital ($8 general

and $5 for USA faculty & staff, USA students, youths under 18 and all senior citizens)

7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Michael Gurt, the Paula Garvey Manship Distinguished Professor of Piano at Louisiana State University, will perform a guest artist piano recital in the Recital Hall www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Friday January 26

Project Homeless Connect 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Mobile Project Homeless Connect is designed to provide needed services to the homeless of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. The event will provide legal assistance, dental and vision screenings, and access to housing assistance and mainstream resources (food stamps, state ID’s, etc.) www.hfal.org/eventsproject-homeless-connect-2018 Coca-Cola Meet the Players (Free) 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 The Coca-Cola Meet the Players will be held on Friday, January 27th from 3:30pm-6:00pm at the Mobile Convention Center and is free to the public. In addition to meeting the players, fans can enjoy interactive displays from the New Orleans Saints, Under Armour, Coca-Cola and AT&T plus games for the kids. These events are Family-friendly with interactive activities for children and adults. www.seniorbowl.com Conde Cavalier (Mobile Route A) (Free) 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A - Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue; Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Conde Cavaliers Parade 6:30 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. www.mobiletheatreguild.org

Saturday January 27

Charity Chase 5K 8:00 AM University of South Alabama, 307 North University Boulevard Mobile, 36608 The Charity Chase 5K is Mobile’s premier joint-charity fundraising event. Race for your favorite, local charity and win additional donations for your favorite nonprofit by winning overall or placing in your age division! www.eventbrite.com Baumhower Tailgate Challenge 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Ladd-Peebles Stadium, 1621 Virginia Street Mobile, 36604 Baumhower Tailgate Challenge is on Saturday, January 28th. This competition is to determine the Senior Bowl Tailgater of the Year. The Challenge is Free and open to anyone tailgating in the parking lot on game day. www.seniorbowl.com The Piggly Wiggly Tailgate Party 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Ladd-Peebles Stadium, 1621 Virginia Street Mobile, 36604 The Food for Less Tailgate Party is a pre-game event held in the Ladd-Peebles Stadium parking lot on Senior Bowl Saturday. Passes for the event are free with the purchase of a Senior Bowl ticket and are limited to the first 3,500 fans. In addition to free food and drink, tailgate party goers will enjoy inflatable activities, face painters, clowns, inflatables and the Coca-Cola Family Festival game trailer. www.seniorbowl.com Kids Studio ($5 or Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Ages 3-10. www.alabamacontemporary.org Senior Bowl 2018 1:30 PM Ladd-Peebles Stadium, 1621 Virginia Street Mobile, 36604 The 2017 Reese’s Senior Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, January 28th at 1:30pm at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. www.seniorbowl.com Krewe of Riviere du Chien Kids Parade (Free) 2:00 PM Linksman Clubhouse, Mobile Kids Parade! Route will run from old Linksman Clubhouse around Saint Andrews Loop and back to the clubhouse. Order of the Rolling River (Free) 2:00 PM Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile Order of the Rolling River - Starts on south Dauphin Island Parkway, just south of Fowl River Road, at American Legion Post 250; South on DIP to Baumhauer Road; West on Baumhauer to Pioneer Road; North on Pioneer to Fowl River Road; East on Fowl River to DIP; South on DIP to end back at Post 250.

Bayport Parading Society, DJ Riders (Free) 2:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Route A; Bayport was created for businesses that want to participate in a parade. DJ Riders Parade follows after and parade goers will hear plenty of music! Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue; Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Pharaohs, Order of Hebe, Conde Explorers (Free) 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Route A - Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue; Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Alabama School of the Arts presents “Mozart and Nancy” 7:00 PM University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, 36613 Another new addition to the season is the world premiere tale of the woman who inspired one of Mozart’s most acclaimed works, “The Marriage of Figaro.” Written by Rex Allen Hearn, “Mozart and Nancy” is a staged reading featuring music performed by graduate and undergraduate students of the Alabama School of the Arts, under the direction of University of Mobile alumna Alison Wilks. www.itickets.com/events/387033 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. www.mobiletheatreguild.org

Sunday January 28

Krewe de la Heron Lakes Children’s Parade (Free) 2:00 PM Heron Lakes Circle, Mobile Kids Parade; (Heron Lakes Circle) Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. www.mobiletheatreguild.org

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Mobile Chamber Music - pianist Juho Pohjonen 3:00 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Mobile Chamber Music presents pianist Juho Pohjonen in concert in the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall on Sunday, January 28, 2018 at 3:00pm. www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Monday January 29

Faculty & Friends USA Chamber Winds Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Tuesday January 30

Cuisine for Kids Area Restaurants, Mobile Area restaurants will participate by donating a portion of their proceeds to the CAC to help fund much needed services for children who have been sexually abused or severely physically abused. This day of food and fundraising offers local restaurants an opportunity

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar to demonstrate their commitment to fight child abuse in our community. A wide variety of cuisine will be offered. www.cacmobile.org

Wednesday January 31

Winter Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , 36582 Even during the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty. Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more. The Winter Wednesdays sessions are held each week in the Magnolia Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. through Feb. 28. Admission to the program is included in the regular Gardens admission, and guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens after the session. Registration is requested: To register, call 251-459-8864. January 31: An in-depth look at the Civil War with authors John Sledge and Frye Gaillard. Well-known local historians and authors John S. Sledge and Frye Galliard will discuss their books about how the Civil War affected the lives of Alabamians. After the presentation, John and Frye will sign copies of their books, “These Rugged Days: Alabama in the Civil War” and “Journey to the Wilderness: War, Memory and a Southern Family’s Civil War Letters,” which will be available to purchase in the Gift Shop. bellingrath.org

Thursday February 1

Order of Polka Dots (Free) 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Route A - Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue; Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Winter Jam Concert ($15)

7:00 PM Mitchell Center, 5950 Old Shell Rd Mobile, 36608 www.jamtour.com

Friday February 2

Order of Inca Parade 6:30 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Saturday February 3

Daphne High School Key Club presents it’s 2nd Annual Hogwarts Festival ($5) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Trojan Hall-Daphne High School, 9300 Champions Way Daphne, 35626 Come enjoy Harry Potter Festival games, face painting, Book mark making and play in a Quidditch game lead by our DHS Quidditch Team. There will be all kinds of Harry Potter snacks to purchase also like chocolate frogs, jelly beans and maybe even some butter beer and pumpkin juice. YUMMY!! www.daphnehs.com

Mobile Mystics, Mobile Mystical Revelers, Mobile Mystical Friends Parade 2:00 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Maids of Mirth, Butterfly Maidens, Krewe of Marry Mates Parade 6:30 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Sunday February 4

Neptune’s Daughters, OOI Parade 6:30PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Monday February 5

Order of Venus, Order of Many Faces Parade 6:30PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Tuesday February 6

Order of LaShe’s Parade 6:30PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Thursday February 8

Mystic Stripers Society Parade 6:30 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Friday February 9

Crewe of Columbus Parade 6:30 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Saturday February 10

Floral Parade, Knights of Mobile, Mobile Mystical Ladies, Order of Angels Parade 12:00 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Mystics of Time Parade 6:00 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Sunday February 11

King Elexis I Motorcade Parade 2:00 PM Mobile Parade Route E: Begins on Water Street and proceeds down Government Street, turning onto

Broad and circling Texas, Washington and Canal. Parade then proceeds back down Broad Street, across Government Street to Spring Hill Avenue, Washington, St. Louis and ending on Warren Street. Joe Cain Parade 2:30 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Le Krewe de Bienville Parade 5:00 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Monday February 12

King Felix III, Floral parade 12:00 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. MLK Business and Civic Organization, MLK Monday Mystics, Northside Merchants Parade 3:00 PM Mobile Parade Route D: Beginning on Warren Street, winding around ML King, Jr. Avenue, Lexington Avenue to St. Stephens Road, Spring Hill Avenue and ending on Washington Avenue. Infant Mystics, Order of Doves Parade 7:00 PM Mobile Parade Route F: Begins on Dauphin Street winding down Spring Hill Avenue, Government Street, taking a turn onto Clairborne Street, to Church Street and Royal, circling Bienville Square to Conception Street, back down Government Street to end at Civic Center on Claiborne Street.

Tuesday February 13

Order of Athena Parade 10:30 AM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Knights of Revelry, King Felix III, Comic Cowboys Parade 12:30 PM Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association Parade 2:00 PM Mobile Parade Route B: Beginning on Broad Street down ML King, Jr. Avenue to Lexington, St. Stephens, continuing down Spring Hill Avenue. A short turn onto Washington to Government with another short turn onto Clairborne to Church Street to Royal and circling Bienville Square, turning onto Conception and Government Streets and ending on Washington Avenue. Order of Myths Parade 6:00 PM Mobile Parade Route C: Beginning at St. Anthony Street, down Royal to St. Francis Street, around Bienville Square down Conception to Government Street around Broad Street and Spring Hill Avenue and a short turn onto Washington Street. Then back up Government and winding again around Bienville Square on Conception and St. Francis Streets and ending at the starting point on St. Anthony Street.

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FamilyCalendar

Classes/Meetings APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Regency Church of Christ, 501 S. University Blvd., Mobile. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251-281-7312. Azalea City Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines Meets/rehearses each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Mobile Christian School, The Leopard’s Den. For more info call 251-380-0579 or visit www.azaleacityharmony.com. Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. Call for times and locations. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24-HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8

Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks. 251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www. familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook. com/FatherhoodMobile. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-6892085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@ yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth issues. All classes are located in Conference Room I (located just inside the main lobby doors of the hospital beside the Gift Shop) unless otherwise specified. To register for classes or for more information, you may call 639-2938 to speak with our Childbirth Educator, Kathy Wade RN, or email kwade@ providencehospital.org. For Daytime Breastfeeding classes only, you may call Marcia Ranew RN, our Lactation Consultant at 633-1749 or email mranew@ providencehospital.org. Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438.

• Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units.Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment ONLY. Call 340-7769. • Infant CPR Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 3407769 early to pre-register. • Resolve Through Sharing For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Topics include advantages, myths and facts, getting started, correct positioning, latching on, engorgement, returning to work and problemsolving. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ mobilebayparents.com. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Safely secured in their pumpkin seat, children typically meet a car when they take their first ride home from the hospital. For many kids this is the beginning of a life-long love affair with cars and the independence they represent. But relegated to the back seat for most of their youth, a child’s curiosity about cars is amplified and their desire to explore all things automotive, magnified. The following toys let kids explore the driver’s seat, grab the keys, kick the tires and take the wheel as they explore the familiar machine that moves them through their lives.

Whisper Ride II (Step 2)

(V-Tech Baby)

Kids take the next step toward driving independence when they transition from being pulled along as a passenger in a wagon, to taking the wheel in the push cart design of the Whisper Ride II. With an adult hand managing speed and direction from behind, little operators can confidently take the lead as they occupy the driver’s seat in front. Featuring automotive decals, seat belt, under-hood storage, a working horn and cup holders (for both adult and child), this ride is ready for every off-road expedition. Perfect pairing parent-child transportation for neighborhood walks, festival outings, park adventures and more, the Whisper Ride II from Step 2 is ready to roll out in style.

Sat Nav Steering Wheel

Theo Klein Service

Car Station

Simulating a realistic driving experience either at home or in the car, Casdon’s Sat Nav Steering Wheel is the perfect choice for the serious driver-in-training. With simulated driving sounds and realistic design features, kids can learn right from left as well as the principles of acceleration while they navigate the course suggested by the Sat Nav. Handeye coordination and decision-making are also supported by the responsive design of this steering wheel as kids develop real-world navigation skills in a safe and engaging environment. Enjoying a realistic and responsive experience behind the wheel, young car enthusiasts’ will be engaged and entertained as they explore the fundamentals of driving with the Sat Nav Steering Wheel.

For children who seek a deeper understanding of the workings inside a car, the Theo Klein Car Station offers a closer look into the workings of an automobile. Built for tinkering, this station lets little ones open the hood and give the engine a once (or thrice) over. From changing the oil and tire to rebuilding the engine, young mechanics are equipped with tools to manipulate and manage the various working of a simplified car engine. Using a handful of AAA batteries, the Service Car Station also features working headlights, horn and realistic engine sounds. The only thing missing is an oily mess. Providing an excellent primer on a car’s familiar functions, this toy is top choice for the young automobile fan who wants to get up under the hood.

Dangling from parents’ hands like forbidden fruit, jingling with a siren’s call that small children can’t resist, our real keys to the car are the most perfectly imperfect toy for little kids. Thankfully, there’s an easy replacement for legitimate keys that will not only keep kids occupied, but also provide additional entertainment and learning opportunities in the mix. With an electronic motion sensor and buttons that generate more than 30 sounds, songs and phrases, V-Tech Beep & Go Keys offers hours of play for little hands. One of the keys is rubberized for additional teething action as well! For every parent of toddlers whose car alarm mysteriously goes off, and their toddler is the key-in-hand prime suspect, this interactive set is the ideal answer.

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Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi

Ferdinand MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Ferdinand PG for rude humor, action and thematic elements. The Story of Ferdinand is a children’s book by American author Munro Leaf. Published in 1936, the tale of gentle Ferdinand, a bull who prefers sniffing flowers to fighting others, was accompanied with detailed black and white illustrations by artist Robert Lawson. It quickly earned a devoted following of kids and grownups alike, including Walt Disney, who produced an animated version in 1938. If you grew up with this story, you may leave theaters feeling rather uninspired. Unfortunately, the 2017 screen adaptation has more in common with mediocre Saturday morning cartoons than it does with classic children’s literature. Fortunately, besides the lackluster quality of the writing, the movie is mostly harmless for youngsters. With the typical messages about friendship, being yourself, and treating others with kindness, it manages to pull off a sweet, if entirely unrealistic, ending. Violence is limited to slapstick situations, mild bullying and roughhousing. Perilous situations are handled carefully, avoiding the blood and gore that usually accompany packing plants and bull fights. Still, the acknowledged death of Ferdinand’s father and the uncomfortable reality of animal mistreatment may be troubling to some. In a world where conflict and misunderstanding often drive decision making, it’s refreshing to see a main character who rejects those philosophies, and a pity that the movie couldn’t do justice to the concept.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 150 minutes Overall: B+ Violence: CSexual Content: AProfanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi action and violence. After awakening the force in Episode VII of the Star Wars saga, the battle is on between The First Order and The Resistance. Facing conflicts from within and without, fate flickers on the spark of hope that was supposed to ignite the galaxy in a joint effort to extinguish the dark. Will Luke really be the last Jedi? Is it still possible to rekindle the light side of the Force? These doubts and challenges provide the screenplay with many opportunities for violent clashes. Lightsabers slash, impale and dismember. Spaceships shoot, bomb and collide. Supernatural powers toss and choke opponents. Injury, death and mass destruction are seen and implied. And it becomes difficult to tell the good-guys from the bad-guys. For fans of the franchise, the action sequences will be sure to impress (although they do seem more lengthy than necessary). And the fluctuating motives add welcomed complexity to the good-vs-evil story. Even though some of the plot points may feel familiar (similar situations are depicted in past movies), the dashes of humor, special effects and questions about the survival of the Jedi will likely keep Star Wars aficionados sufficiently satisfied.

Despicable Me 3

The LEGO Ninjago Movie

(New on Home Video) MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA rated Despicable Me 3 PG for action and rude humor. Gru, Lucy (voices by Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig) and their adorable daughters may be moviegoers’ new favorite family. And for good reason. The villain turned virtuous dad adopted three orphans and then married his secret agent sweetheart. While Gru got the fatherhood thing figured out in the previous movies, Lucy still hasn’t found her footing when it comes to life as a parent. Meanwhile the minions have had it with Gru’s good guy persona and set out on their own. However, their reformed boss is soon tempted to return to the dark side. The invitation comes from his twin Dru (voice also by Carell), a sibling Gru didn’t know he had. Dru, also a villain, wants Gru to join him in a heist that will bond them as brothers. For audiences, it may be impossible to find three cuter characters than Margo, Edith and Agnes. But despite their big eyes and winsome personalities, this isn’t an entirely kid-friendly film, especially for younger children. Like so many animations, this one is packed full of cartoon-style punches, scuffles, guns, rockets and explosions. The script also introduces a mammoth-sized robot intent on destroying Los Angeles. Fortunately, this sequel comes with some sweet life lessons about dealing with grown-up concerns. (Even little Agnes choses to face disappointment with a positive attitude adjustment.) But the messages most likely to charm audience members are those about families, in all their configurations.

(New on Home Video) MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: ALanguage: B+ Alcohol/Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated PG for some mild action and rude humor. Garmadon (Justin Theroux) attacks Ninjago City on a regular basis. His brick-smashing rampages are so frequent that the local TV news depends on him for entertaining programming. Even more thrilling for the locals is when the team of mysterious ninja warriors, who pilot Transformer-like robots, come to the rescue. Everyone knows Lloyd (Dave Franco) is the offspring of the most evil guy in the world and the citizens of Ninjago City voice their displeasure toward the teen boy by ostracizing and demeaning him. But what they don’t know is that Lloyd is none other than the Green Ninja, one of the six heroes who save the day... everyday. Teens Cole, Jay, Kai, Nya and Zane all bring their unique talents together and, along with Lloyd, are trained in the ways of martial arts by Master Wu (Jackie Chan). But their dependence on oversized robots to defeat their archrival is coming to an end when Garmadon promises to attack with his “ultimate weapon”. Now Master Wu determines to teach his charges the true methods of the warrior, including finding your inner piece. The LEGO Ninjago Movie is a fun diversion that will likely appeal more to the typical ages that would purchase the toys this film deftly markets. Mobile Bay Parents I January 2018

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START 2018 OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

GET YOUR FLU SHOT NO EXCUSES! STAY HEALTHY. BE HEALTHY.

EVERYONE 6 MONTHS OR OLDER SHOULD RECEIVE AN ANNUAL FLU SHOT. FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO ALABAMAPUBLICHEALTH.GOV/IMMUNIZATION